Doulas are specially trained healthcare providers without any clinical training or responsibilities. Doulas are educated about the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and birth, as well as the emotional and physical aspects of the postpartum and newborn period.

Doula training helps individuals to begin a culturally aware practice of providing companionship for families and individuals experiencing reproductive health transitions.

"Birth work" is used synonymously with doula work throughout this website.

DTI defines a full-spectrum doula as a non-medical support person equipped to offer emotional care and practical support at all stages of reproductive health.

DTI doulas may choose to offer care for those experiencing infertility / fertility treatment, pregnancy release for any reason, pregnancy or infant loss, and during the processes of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.

Our participants come from all walks of life and interests. We see everyone from nannies to nurses, teachers to gender studies students at our trainings. There are no special qualifications necessary to become a doula. Simply have an open mind and a willingness to learn and you will be ready to begin developing your own unique doula practice!

Doulas first and foremost are responsible to their clients rather than being responsible for their outcomes.

Doulas must have the time and the willingness to show up for clients in their time of need. Our training will help you explore what it means to hold space for another person's experience and advocate skillfully for their needs.

Doulas—even before they take a training—know intuitively why this is needed and how to offer it. Some practicing doulas never take a formal training and that is OK!

Our training provides doulas with how-tos and best practices for the emotional responses necessary in challenging environments and situations. Our instructors provide you with guidance, support, and confidence.

They will also help you discover what structure is right for your doula practice. From creating a small business of your own to volunteer work, we'll go over all the options and guide you to find what works best for you and your community.

Certification may be required in certain instances. For example, doulas wishing to bill Medicaid for reimbursement for their services may be required by their state to submit certification documents.

But in general, no, certification is not required. All patients in healthcare facilities have a right to support from a doula of their choosing.

Yes, certification is included in all training purchases.

DTI full-spectrum training is $1,897 in person or $1,297 online. You can also train online in either birth or postpartum for $697. All of these options include the option to certify as well as 1 year of membership.

After the first year, you can choose to renew your membership annually for $220 or monthly for $19.99/month.

Once earned, your DTI certification is lifetime regardless of membership status.