We are in the process of winding down our Labor Doula program and are focused exclusively on supporting currently enrolled students who are working toward certification. We no longer offer an initial training workshop for admission into this program. Please contact us with any questions.
A labor doula, or birth companion, is a person who is knowledgeable about, and experienced in, the birth process. A labor doula provides emotional, physical, and informational support to birthing people before, during, and just after childbirth.
Details about our Labor Doula Program, including requirements and current costs, are published annually in our Student Handbook and Catalog.
Birthingway is committed to supporting students in our Labor Doula Program in a variety of ways, such as providing mentoring opportunities, phone support with our Doula Program Mentor, monthly continuing education opportunities, and networking support through our website.
Birthingway’s Labor Doula program is a two step process. First, students must successfully complete the eight week training workshop, The Labor Doula: Assisting Women with Birth. Then, if the student wants to pursue certification, they must apply and enroll in the Labor Doula Program. While enrolled in the program, students must attend and document five births as a student doula, as well as complete independent work. During the practicum, students receive guidance from the Doula Program Mentor who provides them with birth leads, additional learning opportunities, and one-on-one mentorship support.
Labor Doula Program Fees
Labor Doula Workshop Fee* $525.00
Application Fee $25.00
Enrollment Fee $75.00
Registration Fee $75.00 per term
Certification Fee $50.00
Re-certification Fee $50.00
*Students are also required to purchase a course-pack. Please see registration materials for current course-pack fees.
Length of the Labor Doula Program
The length and timing of the Labor Doula Program is primarily up to the individual student. If you are pursuing certification, you have up to one year from the time you complete the training workshop to begin the practicum. Once you begin the practicum, you have up to one year to complete the requirements and apply for certification. Some students prefer to complete their birth experience and independent work quickly and finish within two terms, while other students choose to work through the practicum more slowly, completing their work in three or four terms. If more time is needed, a student may petition for an extension from the Doula Programs Mentor.