Ask A Death Doula
What is the difference between a Death Doula and an End Of Life Doula?
There is no difference. It's simply the Doula's preference for the name they give to their role. They're both classified as non-medical professionals providing holistic support to the dying and their loved ones before, during, and after death. Trained in the various end of life stages, they assist families in understanding the dying process, while providing reassurance, comfort and support to the person dying and those they love.
As a Doula, I support the dying as they make decisions about their end of life care plan. This plan communicates and details how they want their last months, days and hours to be lived.
I offer assistance in creating a positive and relaxing environment for the person facing death according to their wishes in their home, at the hospital, hospice or care facility.
I will remain present to the dying person and their loved ones throughout the final dying process as their dedicated, reassuring and supportive presence. I continue to support the family at death, in the days that follow and beyond.
Will you support a person who chooses Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)?
Absolutely! I respect the courage it takes to come to this decision; to work through the myriad of emotions and to choose when and where their last breath will be taken. In addition, I support their loved ones. Sometimes I am engaged to solely support family members who struggle with this decision before, during or after the procedure.
MAiD is a legal choice in Canada for those who meet the eligibility criteria.
What kind of spiritual support do you provide?
That's a deep question. I help the dying and their loved ones come to terms with the unfinished and death.
I support the dying as they reflect on the purpose of their life. I encourage them to feel pride in both their big and small achievements. Forgive what they see as failures.
I support both the individual and their family members as they face their fears, seek peace of mind and acceptance as death nears. This enables them to embrace the bittersweet gifts of the journey and prepare for their courageous goodbyes.
Ask A Death Doula
What are your End of Life Doula credentials?
Registered End of Life Doula (REOLD)
- End of Life Doula Association of Canada
End of Life Doula Certificates of Course Completion:
- Douglas College (CANADA)
- International Doulagivers Institute (USA)
- Life Options (AUSTRALIA)
NEDA Proficiency Badge
- National End-of-Life Doula Alliance (USA)
Certified Hospice Volunteer
- Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CAN)
Certificate of Course Completion in Understanding Dementia
- University of Tasmania (AUSTRALIA)
Are you a member of the End of Life Doula Association of Canada?
Yes, I am a "Registered" member. In addition I had the honor of serving on The End-of-Life Doula Association of Canada's (EOLDAC) Board of Directors for one term.
"Registered" status requires me to work within the EOLDAC's Scope of Practice and adhere to the Code of Ethics they have put in place to set the standard for the Canadian End of Life Doula Association. In addition, I am required to submit a police security clearance and proof of continuing education in the end of life field to maintain my "Registered" status with the Association.
What is the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance Proficiency Badge?
It's the USA's National End-of-Life Doula Alliance's (NEDA) micro credential that was developed in collaboration with the USA's National Hospice Council. It's awarded to End of Life Doulas from around the globe who successfully meet NEDA's measurable professional standards and core competencies. The intent of this credential is to validate to families when hiring a "NEDA Proficient" Doula like myself, they've been tested by NEDA to confirm they meet the standard skill set within the scope of practice of the role.