5 Things to Look for When Searching for a Doula
At Soulshine Doula Services, I specialize in providing exceptional local doula support, dedicated to supporting you
through one of life’s most beautiful and challenging experiences: childbirth and early parenthood.
"Hoping for the best, prepared for the worst, and unsurprised by anything in between."
-Maya Angelou
What do you get when you hire me as your doula?
The basic elements of my Birth Doula Package can be found here.
Are all doulas the same?
If you look at many doula’s websites you will find similar packages listed talking about prenatals, the birth and a postpartum visit. You will see the words educational/informational, physical and emotional when discussing the types of support doulas offer.
Read Between the Lines!
What you have to do as a parent-to-be looking for a doula is read between the lines…check out the images, website design and keywords that are important to you. Do they align with your views? Do they seem like someone you will feel comfortable being vulnerable around? It is all very important stuff! Here you will find some information about my philosophy and what I find most important in the doula/client relationship.
5 Things to Look For in a Doula:
1. What is your initial feeling when you see the doula’s website? Do you want to learn more or immediately pass?
2. How do the images they use make you feel? Calm? Excited? Nervous? Connected?
3. Are there phrases that stand out to you? Are you interested in hypnobirthing, incorporating your spiritual beliefs or someone who is open to various interventions?
4. Think about the type of support you are looking for. Do they match that? Do you want a motherly figure, a friend, a sister or teacher type energy?
5. Logistically, do their packages offer the type of care you are hoping for?
So…What’s My Style?
One thing that I haven’t discussed much is my style of support. As an older sister and one of the oldest cousins in my family, I’ve always taken on the role of the keeper. (Although if you ask my younger relatives they may say I was a bit bossy!) In reality I was a young child trying to figure out the role of a helper but hadn’t quiet grasped the concept that helping isn’t always doing something for someone or telling them what to do. As I grew older I learned to fine-tune my helper skills by utilizing my empathy and intuition. I am able to remain a calm presence in stressful situations and focus my energy on whatever needs to be done.
With that being said…
My experience as an older sibling has also taught me that tough love and being straightforward is what works best for me in my role as a helper. I am not one who is going to sugar coat information and situations. I fully believe that knowing all possibilities or scenarios helps people make the best informed decisions for their current situation. I am definitely a hope for the best and plan for the worst type person which translates into how I serve my clients.
Get in touch!
I understand that choosing the right support for your childbirth journey is a significant decision. I’m here to answer any questions you may have and to discuss how I can assist you during this special time.
Or e-mail me!
Schedule your free consultation today!
Please include your estimated due date, where you are located, and where you plan to give birth.