IN PERSON | BIRTH DOULA | LONDON, ON | OCT 18-20, 2024

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Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your IN-PERSON training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? Prefer to learn in person?

Join us for our client-centered and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and hands-on demonstrations! The in-person workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the in-person course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

  • October 18, 2024
  • October 19, 2024
  • October 20, 2024

*If you’d like to register for the Birth & Postpartum Doula training please select that fee 

By registering for this training, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

IN PERSON | BIRTH AND POSTPARTUM DOULA | LONDON, ON | OCT 18-22, 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713829068937{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your IN-PERSON training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? Prefer to learn in person?

Join us for our client-centred and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and hands-on demonstrations! The in-person workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the in-person course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

  • October 18, 2024
  • October 19, 2024
  • October 20, 2024
  • October 21, 2024
  • October 22, 2024

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

IN PERSON | BIRTH DOULA | DARTMOUTH, NS | NOV 1-3, 2024

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Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your IN-PERSON training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? Prefer to learn in person?

Join us for our client-centred and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and hands-on demonstrations! The in-person workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the in-person course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

  • November 1, 2024.
  • November 2, 2024.
  • November 3, 2024.

*If you’d like to register for the Birth Doula AND Postpartum Doula please select that ticket.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

LIVE VIRTUAL | BIRTH DOULA | ONLINE | JUNE 21-23, 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713563930741{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for LIVE VIRTUAL training!

THIS TRAINING WILL RUN FROM 9-5pm EST  on the following days : 

    • June 21, 2024
    • June 22, 2024
    • June 23, 2024

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? 

Join us for our client-centered and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and demonstrations! The VIRTUAL  workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST time every day as listed above.

Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

*If you’d like to register for the Birth & Postpartum Doula training please select that fee 

By registering for this training, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

LIVE VIRTUAL | BIRTH and POSTPARTUM DOULA | ONLINE | JUNE 21-23 AND JULY 13/14, 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713559260318{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for LIVE VIRTUAL training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? 

Join us for our client-centered and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and demonstrations! The VIRTUAL  workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the course requirements. Please check times against your own time zone.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

  • June 21, 2024
  • June 22, 2024
  • June 23, 2024
  • July 13, 2024
  • July 14, 2024

By registering for this training, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

FULL SPECTRUM DOULA TRAINING | VIRTUAL | JUNE 21, 2024 START

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Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your LIVE VIRTUAL training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? 

This virtual program allows students to hold space with an experienced team of instructors and learn about the relational and holistic aspects of becoming a birth worker.

When you register for the Full Spectrum Doula Training  you are registering to receive training in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum & loss support.

  • 6 scheduled LIVE webinars with experienced mentors and experts in their field (please see below)
  • Several core modules
  • Ongoing mentoring

Meetings and modules will cover but are not limited to:

  • Community commitment, practice guidelines, jurisprudence, and ethical considerations
  • Conception, pre-conception, fertility, family planning, and diverse family relationships
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Pregnancy, preparing clients for labour, self-care and safety-planning
  • Trauma-informed principles for care and trauma-focused support + counselling skills for our own trauma reflections
  • Comfort measures for birth & postpartum
  • Anti-oppression, discrimination, and decolonization of reproductive experiences
  • Loss, grief & mourning: the multi-dimensional aspects of trauma and loss
  • Compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious trauma:  self-care planning and personal reflection by birth support themselves
  • Business and non-business models of support

Materials and modules will become available on Sunday, June 14, 2024.

Webinars will be held 9am-5pm EST via Zoom on the following dates:

  • June 21
  • June 22
  • June 23
  • July 12
  • July 13
  • July 14

Students must attend 6 live webinars to be recognized as having completed this program.  Webinars will be recorded for playback purposes and sent to only registered members who have been provided access to this course.

This course is for new registrants only.  Those who have previously registered with DTC in either the self-directed training or the in-person workshop option should continue in their studies under that format.

Applications and registration open with LIMITED SPACE at this time.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

FULL SPECTRUM DOULA TRAINING | VIRTUAL | SEPT 21, 2024 START

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1717124652729{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]This virtual program allows students to hold space with an experienced team of instructors and learn about the relational and holistic aspects of becoming a birth worker.

When you register for the Full Spectrum Doula Training  you are registering to receive training in fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum & loss support.

– 6 scheduled LIVE webinars with experienced mentors and experts in their field (please see below)
– Several core modules
– Ongoing mentoring

Meetings and modules will cover but are not limited to:

  • Community commitment, practice guidelines, jurisprudence, and ethical considerations
  • Conception, pre-conception, fertility, family planning, and diverse family relationships
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Pregnancy, preparing clients for labour, self-care and safety-planning
  • Trauma-informed principles for care and trauma-focused support + counselling skills for our own trauma reflections
  • Comfort measures for birth & postpartum
  • Anti-oppression, discrimination, and decolonization of reproductive experiences
  • Loss, grief & mourning: the multi-dimensional aspects of trauma and loss
  • Compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious trauma:  self-care planning and personal reflection by birth support themselves
  • Business and non-business models of support

Materials and modules will become available on Sunday, September 14, 2024

Webinars will be held 9am-5pm EST via Zoom on the following dates:

  • Sept 21, 2024
  • Sept 22, 2024
  • Sept 28, 2024
  • Sept 29, 2024
  • Oct 5, 2024
  • Oct 6, 2024

Students must attend 6 live webinars to be recognized as having completed this program.  Webinars will be recorded for playback purposes and sent to only registered members who have been provided access to this course.

This course is for new registrants only.  Those who have previously registered with DTC in either the self-directed training or the in-person workshop option should continue in their studies under that format.

Applications and registration open with LIMITED SPACE at this time.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

LIVE VIRTUAL | BIRTH and POSTPARTUM DOULA | ONLINE | SEPT 21, 22, 28, OCT 5/6, 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713559313589{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for LIVE VIRTUAL training!

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? 

Join us for our client-centered and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and demonstrations! The VIRTUAL  workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST time every day. Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the course requirements. Please check times against your own time zone.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

  • September 21, 2024
  • September 22, 2024
  • September 28, 2024
  • October 5, 2024
  • October 6, 2024

By registering for this training, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

LIVE VIRTUAL | BIRTH DOULA | ONLINE | SEPT 21/22 and 28, 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1713565080436{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for LIVE VIRTUAL training!

THIS TRAINING WILL RUN FROM 9-5pm EST  on the following days : 

    • Sept 21, 2024
    • Sept 22, 2024
    • Sept 28, 2024

Are you ready to fulfill your dream of becoming a doula? 

Join us for our client-centered and trauma-informed hybrid doula course as we guide you through interactive teaching and demonstrations! The VIRTUAL  workshop creates the opportunity for students to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST time every day as listed above.

Please note you must be in attendance all days in order to qualify for the course requirements.

As part of your doula certification, you will be expected to complete online learning modules and related assignments alongside in-person training attendance. 

*If you’d like to register for the Birth & Postpartum Doula training please select that fee 

By registering for this training, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

___________________________________________________________________

Training Information & Eligibility:

You have read through the Resources and policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment and Discrimination Policy, and Complaint Policies & Procedures prior to registering.  You acknowledge that all materials are taught in an in-person format and that the training is a part of the full course, including modules, quizzes, practicum, and exams.

There are no age or educational prerequisites for taking this program and DTC works with providers across many countries, with only limited exceptions.  If you are a provider outside of Canada or the United States we recommend that you contact any local doula associations to ensure that our programs can be used for any required authorization.

Professionalism:
You will show up on time and be fully present for all days that you are expected to attend, and always in the spirit of professionalism  You will reach out to our faculty or any staff if any unexpected issues arise.  You agree to take full responsibility for addressing your needs in the area of accessible learning, self-care, and compassionate treatment of peers and DTC staff.  The faculty and staff reserve the right to remove trainees at any time if the trainee creates an unsafe or unprofessional environment for you or other trainees, or for any reason that does not represent the policies of DTC.

Accommodation: 
Doula Training Canada follows the Accessible Canada Act (ACA).  We ask that if you are in need of any special accommodations that will allow you to take your training with us, please email us with special requests at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to communicate with your instructor and/or DTC staff immediately and we will work with you to discuss the best possible solution.

Confidentiality:
You are asked to respect the confidentiality of other trainees and our staff during your time with DTC.  Confidentiality with clients will be discussed by your trainer/s.  Trainees who observe a problem with another trainee are asked to bring the problem to the lead trainer for the specific session or DTC administration, as per the set policies and guidelines.   Similarly, if a staff member acts unprofessionally we ask that you email DTC administration as soon as possible.

Preparedness for doing your own work:
Throughout your training, you will be expected to participate in working through the training activities as a representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for scheduling, discipline, and following through on projects and module expectations outside of this training session.  In registering you recognize the set amount of time that you have access to the program and agree to work towards completion in the timeframe set forth by DTC and its vocational expectations.  Mentoring can be accessed by emailing our staff at info@doulatraining.ca and we are always prepared to assist you if you communicate your questions or needs.  Each program at DTC may have a slightly different timeframe and we encourage you to review these details prior to registering.

Please note that registration ends 2 days prior to the event[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Categories
balance community connection

Embracing Mothering, Releasing Motherhood: Women’s History Month

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1711640523303{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]I loved one-sided “conversations” with my son when he was an infant and it’s one of my favorite things about postpartum visits now. I refer to all my clients by their first names, however, when I’m providing postpartum support to clients I know identify with terms like “woman”, “mother”, and “mom”, I often find myself talking to Baby about how wonderful their mama is and what a great job she’s doing, especially when they get to the stage where their eyes follow her around the room lovingly. 

This often sparks a conversation with the client, especially if no one else is there. That’s part of my goal. In a patriarchal world, “mother” is a loaded construct. Adjusting to the idea that you are now someone’s “mama” is one of the most emotionally and psychologically intense aspects of the postpartum experience for first and only-timers because of everything that is expected of motherhood. 

Canadian feminist scholar Dr. Andrea O’Reilly has devoted her academic career to understanding what it means to be a mother. A mother of three herself, she understands “motherhood” as something separate from “mothering”. Motherhood is a patriarchal institution that sets rigid, specific, and unattainable expectations on the care work of raising children as a means of exerting control over women’s bodies and lives. To meet patriarchal expectations of motherhood women must be selfless, long-suffering, patient and kind, and compliant with expectations of good, wholesome women. Patriarchy’s archetypal mother does not sexualize herself, but she also doesn’t “let herself go”. She keeps an immaculate home and serves balanced, from scratch meals. She has well-groomed, well-behaved children. She always knows exactly what to say and do to comfort her family and keep peace and order in the home. By the 1980s, contributing to the household income was added to the list of expectations. As an avid fan of The Cosby Show, it did not strike me as unusual that high-powered lawyer and mom of 5 Clare Huxtable would make fresh squeezed OJ and pancakes from scratch for her brood on Saturday mornings, served in the comfort of their stunning, self-cleaning Park Avenue home.

As a working mom of one in 2024, it strikes me as absurdly implausible, and that’s intentional. The point is not for anyone to be as perfect as an 80s sitcom mom. The point is for all of us to feel like we’re failing by comparison.

Conversely, O’Reilly defines “mothering” as autonomous, empowered, and priceless social labour that we construct and define according to our deep knowledge of family, community, and personal needs. As a verb rather than a noun, “mothering” is action-oriented and the role is created by those who enact it. Mothering does not require the relinquishment of self but affirms each mother’s right to undertake the role in a manner that is faithful to her authentic self. 

When supporting new mothers I hold space for their joy and discomfort with being called “mama”. I normalize using alternative monikers if that’s preferable. My wife was not comfortable with “mother” as a label, so we went with a variation of her nickname instead. I encourage them to insist on making space for the things that made them “them” before they had their beloved baby. We unpack unrealistic and sexist expectations of moms as they arise. I affirm the need to putting yourself first sometimes, for the overall good of the family. We lay the groundwork for them to define the role according to what works for them and their family. Liberating new mothers from the constraints of motherhood and facilitating their intuitive enactment of mothering is one of my favourite aspects of being a doula. 

 

We hope our woman-identified audience is having an affirming Women’s History Month this March. For those of you who mother, we affirm your right to do this living giving, nurturing work on your terms. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”534490″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1711640593876{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Keira Grant (she/her) Inclusion and Engagement Lead – Racialized Communities

Keira brings a wealth of experience to the Online Community Moderator role. She is a Queer, Black woman with a twenty-year track record in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) education, projects, and community building initiatives.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]