We sat down with Stefanie Antunes, co-director of Doula School, to talk about what makes this year’s recertification process a little different and how Doula School is making it as simple as possible.
Doula School: Stefanie, thanks for taking the time to chat with us today. Let’s dive right in – why is the recertification process different this year?
Stefanie Antunes: Thank you for having me! I’m genuinely passionate about the organizational changes we’ve created. This year’s recertification represents everything we’ve been working toward at Doula School. We’ve completely reimagined the process to make it meaningful, accessible, and – most importantly – easy. No one wants a complicated and convoluted process, so we’ve streamlined it to just two requirements: 15 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
DS: That does sound straightforward. And we heard there’s no fee?
SA: That’s right! There will be no fee for recertification at this time. We’re investing heavily each month in newsletters, webinars, new courses, and program updates to serve our alumni. We already offer free monthly webinars—each worth 1 CEU—almost every month of the year. It’s a cost-effective way for doulas to stay current without breaking the bank.
DS: Why is recertification so important in the first place?
SA: As leaders who’ve been working in the field for over 20 years, we’ve seen tremendous change. Similar to modern midwifery, the doula profession has experienced a conflicting balance between wanting the work to be accessible for families while maintaining independence from the colonial and capitalistic aspects that formal regulation brings. But the landscape is shifting. As we look to the United States and see more states covering doula services through Medicaid, and insurance companies in many countries offering reimbursement for doulas…the future is clear: our profession is trending toward expansion. This means more doulas, more coverage, and more structure.
DS: Speaking of coverage, there have been major developments in the past couple of years, haven’t there?
SA: Yes! This has been such a big win for our community. Doula services are now being covered by extended health benefits by more companies than ever before. This is huge for both doulas and the families we serve. It means our work is being recognized as legitimate healthcare support, which validates what we’ve always known—that doulas provide essential care that improves birth outcomes and experiences. Having this professional recognition through benefits coverage makes recertification even more important, as it demonstrates to insurers, clients, and healthcare systems that we maintain high standards of practice.
DS: What does staying current actually look like for your doulas?
SA: Recertification ensures that our doulas remain at the forefront of the profession, equipped with current knowledge and skills. The field we work in is dynamic and continually evolving. Whether it’s new research, emerging best practices, or adapting to the diverse and changing needs of the communities we serve, recertification keeps us sharp. But more than that, it’s an opportunity for doulas to reconnect with their “why”—to remember what called them to this work in the first place.
DS: When does recertification kick in?
SA: While we’ve had recertification in place for many years, it wasn’t being enforced. Late last year we gave all students a one year notice that recertification would begin being enforced by Dec of 2025. For those who certified before December 2022, December 31, 2025 is the deadline. If you certified after December 2022, you’ll recertify three years from your certification date. We’re being very thoughtful about giving everyone adequate time and support.
DS: What feedback are you hearing from doulas about the recertification process?
SA: The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Doulas appreciate that we’re not just checking boxes—we’re creating opportunities for genuine growth and community connection. Recertification provides an avenue to reconnect with peers, share insights, and grow as part of a collective. This network is invaluable for support and collaboration. Many are telling us they actually look forward to it because it honors their experience and values their ongoing commitment to excellence.
DS: Any final thoughts for doulas considering recertification this year?
SA: If you’ve been wondering about the recertification process, I encourage you to check out our recertification page for all the details. This is your time to invest in yourself, to deepen your skills, and to be part of a profession that’s gaining recognition and respect in the healthcare system. With many extended health benefits now covering our services, we’re at an incredible moment in the evolution of birth work. Recertification is how we demonstrate we’re ready for this next chapter—and how we ensure we’re providing the highest quality care our clients deserve.
And remember: we want this to be easy. We’re here to support you every step of the way with resources, guidance, and opportunities to make this process enriching and rewarding.
While we respect all doulas’ choice to recertify or not, as of January 1st our alumni benefits will be reserved for those students who are working towards certification and certified/recertified.
Ready to recertify? Visit Doula School’s recertification page to learn more about this year’s streamlined, doula-centered recertification process
About: Stefanie Antunes, Co-director of Doula School
Stefanie has been a Lamaze® Educator and doula since 2002, inspired by her own birth experiences to support families with preparation and care. She leads multiple childbirth organizations, serves as President of Doula School Canada, and contributes to professional boards and coalitions to improve communities and the childbirth field. An award-winning author and recognized business leader, Stefanie is dedicated to creating positive birth experiences that help families bond and thrive.
