Categories
community connection Trauma vulnerabiliity

World Suicide Prevention Day: Creating Hope Through Action

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1693608059856{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]This year’s theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is creating hope through action. 

There is a lot we can do intentionally to decrease suicidality and enhance hope among the perinatal population. 

According to this data analysis in Canadian Medical Association Journal, one in every 19 perinatal deaths is due to suicide, making suicide a leading cause of perinatal death. CMAJ notes that these findings speak to a need for stronger mental health support during and after pregnancy. Discussing perinatal health universally during prenatal support is a good starting point. Knowing what to watch out for, and raising awareness and discussion about is also essential. 

This 2022 article by Ann-Marie Bright and colleagues presents a scoping review of almost 20 years of literature on perinatal suicidality. Their central finding is that “The minimization of women’s experiences may lead to detrimental consequences and there is a need for increased knowledge of mental health problems by those working with women in the perinatal period to ensure safety planning conversations occur with every woman meeting ‘at risk’ criteria.”

Suicidal ideation is having thoughts of committing suicide. These thoughts occur on a spectrum ranging in frequency, intensity, and intentionality. While suicidal ideation does not always lead to a suicide attempt, suicide attempts and completed suicides are always preceded by suicidal ideation. Early identification and intervention regarding suicidal ideation as an important way of preventing suicide. 

Bright et. al divide the risk factors for suicidal ideation during the perinatal period into 3 categories:

  1. Biological, which includes:
    1. Nicotine and alcohol use
    2. Poor or low sleep
    3. Chronic illness
    4. Pregnancy conditions
    5. Complicated Birth
  2. Psychological, which includes 
    1. Trauma history
    2. Prior history of mental illness
    3. Pregnancy and infant loss
    4. Suicide attempt history
    5. Feeling unprepared to parent
  3. Social, which includes
    1. Unemployed/low income
    2. Inadequate support system
    3. Intimate partner violence
    4. Refugee Status
    5. Unhealthy relationships

 

There are two key takeaways for doulas in these findings. Firstly, this is a pretty lengthy list of risk factors and it’s not exhaustive. Suicidal ideation could affect anyone, from any walk of life. We need to talk to all clients about mental health and raise awareness regarding red flags for mental ill health, and share local treatment options.

Secondly, some people are more likely to be at risk than others. People who are marginalized and who have survived abuse and violence may need some extra helping hands. 

As birth workers, our role is in and of itself a powerful action against suicide. Support from a doula has been shown to significantly reduce postpartum depression and strengthen new parent relationships. Perhaps this is because having a doula can mitigate many of these risks identified by Bright et. al, such as complicated birth, feeling unprepared to parent, and an inadequate support system. We can’t underestimate the life-saving power and potential of this work. We need financial and infrastructural support to do this work and connect with the clients who need us the most. 

To learn more about how you can support suicide awareness and prevention in your birthwork practice, check out resources at Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention. 

This short video also provides excellent information on warning signs for postpartum depression. https://youtu.be/6kaCdrvNGZw?si=nBqLwhMLnFd–XK3

 

Keira Grant (she/her) brings a wealth of experience to her EDI Co-Lead 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. As a mom and partner, she uses her lived experience to provide support and reflection for her clients and her work. Keira is the owner of Awakened Changes Perinatal Doula Services.

People exhibiting symptoms of perinatal mental illness should be encouraged to seek medical attention immediately.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Categories
Business certification Labour Doula

Alumni Journey – Helena’s Doula Path

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Alumni Journey – Helena’s Doula Path

Where it all began –

Back in 2011, being a stay at home mom for over 10 years, working only part time here and there to keep me home with the kids – it was time for change. BIG change. I was losing my sense of self, kids were getting older, my husband had just changed careers and I needed something for ME. I always had a passion for women’s health, nutrition, natural healing. I looked into a few options, but midwifery REALLY resonated with me. Before I could even apply, I needed to upgrade some high school courses to get my grade point average up (apparently my memory of what a great student I was back in high school wasn’t…so…accurate…). I began looking into other things that could help boost my application and that’s when a trusty google search popped the word “doula” in front of my face. I am a mother of three and had never heard of a doula before – but man did it sound like a perfect thing to learn about while trying to pursue my goal of becoming a Midwife. I sneakily went into my “secret stash” of money that I was saving for a new camera and booked myself into a doula training course just 10 minutes from my house. Literally decided to take doula training on a Tuesday, enrolled for that Friday and the rest is HISTORY.

From the moment I attended my first birth as a doula, I knew I was meant to be on the emotional side of birth…NOT the medical. So I tucked my midwifery goals aside, dove head first into my Doula Career and became certified. My Trainer was none other than Stefanie Antunes and since that first weekend together, we have become lifelong friends and “soul sistas”. Stefanie is the real deal people, she’s been there, done that, always re-inventing herself and truly a driving force for better birth.

Stefanie also had this little “project” called the Birth Doula Program she had just launched before I met her and she needed someone to take the reins and work alongside her for a bit. I applied for the position and her and I have been partners in crime to this day, nurturing what many have viewed as a lost cause (more on that in a bit).

A few years later, I found myself wanting to do as much education as I was “doula-ing”, so looked into Prenatal Educator Programs. Once again, I was trained by Stefanie and this time the added bonus of an old high school friend and colleague Jen Rogers. By 2016 I achieved my Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator.

I have been on the Board of Directors for the Association of Ontario Doulas. I have managed the Discover Birth Team. I have consulted with Health practitioners across Durham region helping them to expand the support they offer their expecting clients. I have facilitated seminars and info sessions for Doctors, Midwives, Nurses and colleagues. Give me a microphone people – the stage is my jam.

First and foremost though, I have walked the walk. I have listened more than I have spoken to truly understand a family’s fears and intentions. I have driven the miles, put in the hours, lost the sleep, and cried the tears. Left my kids recitals and missed birthdays. I’ve laughed, hugged and done more hip squeezes than I care to count (in positions I can’t even describe). I may be 50lbs overweight but no one holds a candle to my arm and shoulder strength. I’ve doula’ed through the pandemic – when human rights were being violated, but technology kept the doula in the birth room. I’ve needed support after a long hard birth and I’ve given it right back – even at 2 am when I WASN’T on call. I’ve even had the honour of performing Henna Belly blessings and learning all about the different beautiful cultural traditions of birth.

These past 10 years have been life changing. I’m a better mother, friend and wife because of this career and nothing beats the moment a birthing person looks you in the eye after the hardest and most impactful time of their life and no words even have to be spoken – you just feel the energy in the room – they did it and you helped that confidence bloom.

Being a Doula is a privilege. It’s truly a gift, never to be taken for granted. I lost my mother very young (she passed away from cancer at 39 years), so I know how precious life is. I really feel I was meant to do this work – be there for families, for women, for people.

Some of my favourite memories, so far:

*Medical professionals remembering me from a previous birth and exclaiming to the room, we are in “good hands”.

*Coming full circle as a colleague in the “birth world” when Stefanie and I were ready to change the previous model of the Birth Doula Program and expand it into more hospitals. We secured a meeting with The Director of the Alongside Midwifery unit at Markham Stouffville Hospital. She knew Stefanie professionally and she knew me from attending births together with clients under her care.  After hearing our “pitch” she said: “You are the ones mentoring these doulas and running this program, so I have every confidence they are getting the right support. If you’re teaching them, how I know you both are as doulas, then I see no problem in launching this program”

Or at least I think that’s kinda what she said…cause I was having a surreal girl crush kinda moment being complimented by Ontario’s Midwife # 1 and head of Canada’s first Midwifery led hospital unit…

*Those moments: when you don’t know you’re being watched, when you don’t know yet the ripple effect you’re causing. When the support you give rolls into 100’s of doulas lives – helping them launch their careers and in turn helps 100’s of families.  It weaves into a new parent’s confidence as they bring their baby home. Impresses knowledge so a family can make the best choice for themselves.

As I approach a crossroads in my career, deciding whether or not to hang up my doula shoes, I look back on those moments and feel nothing but gratitude.

Two years ago I put my doula career on hold as we moved from the city to the country and I was a surrogate. Having supported many families with that dynamic of growing their family, it was an honour to have been able to do that for someone. My daughter was able to be there at the birth too – how serendipitous to have had her there experiencing a true miracle. A beautiful little girl was born right on her due date (Thanksgiving Day!) and since then I have only been taking a few clients and teaching online here and there.

My husband’s renovation company is also thriving, so I’ve enjoyed jumping in and learning to manage things together with him.

In the past year, I have stepped away from the Birth Doula Program to a more quiet role (but still help with training new Doulas). I don’t belong to any birth related Boards or Associations (except my son’s local Hockey Centre Board). I’ve also said I’m retiring from doing births and only want to teach part time.

So don’t tell my husband that I bought new doula shoes, booked up my October with classes and may have booked a couple clients the month we are supposed to be taking a family vacation…this Doula isn’t going anywhere.

Parting words?

Listen more than you speak.

Surrender to the moments in labour so you can grow your confidence and truly be present for the person trusting you with this experience.

Don’t spread yourself thin – I have missed ONE birth out of 100’s in 10 years…I wanted to hit the ground running and DO everything when I started my career. Instead be truly MAGNIFICENT in one or two things you do, instead of OKAY in many.

Check your bias at the door.

Stay Hydrated…legit

 

Helena McMann

Doula School Graduate

CD(DONA) Doula

LCCE Lamaze Childbirth Educator

Co-Director, The Birth Doula Program[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Categories
birth Business Uncategorised

Interested in becoming a doula? What is holding you back?

[vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678112925784{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]There are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there about doula work. You have to be “crunchy”, have your own children, your too young or too old. I am here to tell you not a single one of those things is relevant to doula work.

I began my doula journey well before I had kids when I was working a full-time job and was looking for something to reignite my passion. I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do but I wanted to do something with babies.

So I signed up for a training course, drove 3 hours to take it, stayed in a sketchy motel and left feeling equal parts inspired and overwhelmed. Taking on something new is scary. Fear is one of life’s biggest paralyzers. All of us are afraid of failing, afraid of change, and transitions to something new often feel impossible.

My journey to birth work was not speedy. I took my time. Took in the learning, and made small changes, it took me almost 5 years to dive into birthwork full-time. Deciding to take a course you are passionate about is the beginning, it’s a step forward, not a deep dive.

Often a barrier to taking that step is the fear of not knowing how to do it. Worrying about not knowing how to do it is a waste of time. Instead, learn how to. Set up an informational interview with other doulas in your area. Ask how they got started and if they have any tips for going forward. If you align with their values and style ask if they are willing to be your mentor.

Also, get to know your training organization. Set up a consultation with the training program you are interested in. Ask all the questions. In fact, check a few out and go with the one that you feel most inspired by.

When I signed up for the doula course at first I was not sure I could afford it but in reality, with a little planning, I made it work. If you are questioning whether you can afford it. Ask yourself: When will you have enough money? Even if you win the lottery, will that be enough money for you to follow your dreams? What changes can you make to your income to set a little aside to take the course? Is there a grant you can access or funding? Do you have a family member or friend who will support your dream with a loan or gift? Nothing is impossible with a little ingenuity.

Lastly, time. It’s on everyone’s minds. How will you make the time? We all have incredibly busy lives and are exhausted and overwhelmed. However, making time for something you love means making the time, even if it starts with 15 minutes a day it’s the first step. Remind yourself that if you’re busy now, you’ll probably continue to be busy later, so set aside time for your dreams today.

So my potential doula. What is holding you back?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_padding_divider][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678113462893{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]About the author.

Sondra is the Program Coordinator for DTC and a mother of 2, a full-time doula and a counsellor. She has a passion for teaching new doulas how to build a life and business that works best for them. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

14 Week Holistic Doula – April 17th Start

This 14 week program allows DTC members to hold space with an experienced team of instructors and learn about the relational and holistic aspects of becoming a modern birth worker.

When you register for the 14-module Holistic Doula program you are registering to receive training in trauma-focused work, fertility, pregnancy, loss, labour support, postpartum support, infant feeding, and sex and body-positive frameworks that include the consideration of anatomical, physiologic, social, environmental, and diverse relationships.  All of which form the essence and experience of being a modern birth worker with DTC.

This course includes:

– 10 scheduled LIVE webinars with experienced mentors and experts in their field (please see below)
– 12 core modules
– ongoing mentoring
– an invitation to additional program events and ongoing DTC member discussions
– a lifetime membership to DTC
– review and feedback on experiential and assignment components, as well as the inclusion of your final test fee

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
  • Sex-positive and body-positive anatomy and physiology, which sex is a part of birth
  • Pregnancy, preparing clients for labour, self-care and safety-planning
  • Virtual versus in-person support considerations, and rural versus urban birth work experiences
  • Trauma-informed principles for care and trauma-focused support + counselling skills for our own trauma reflections
  • Comfort measures for birth, a top to bottom approach to adaptive response options for minimizing flight/fight/freeze/fawn and the sensation of pain
  • The variations of informed consent and what it means in the space of communication and advocacy
  • Anti-oppression, discrimination and decolonization of reproductive and sexual experiences
  • Medical procedures, interventions & reproductive bias across systems of medical care
  • Loss, grief & mourning: the multi-dimensional aspects of trauma and loss
  • Compassion fatigue, burn out, and vicarious trauma:  self care planning and personal reflection by birth support themselves
  • Counselling skills, community of care models, & working with clients to support their needs, traditions, and cultural practices
  • Business and non-business models of support

Materials and modules will become available on Sunday April 17th, 2023

Webinars will be held each Wednesday’s at 7:30pm EST via Zoom (90 minute sessions) on the following dates:

  • April 26th
  • May 3rd
  • May 10th
  • May 17th
  • May24th
  • May 31 – Break Week – no session
  • June 7th
  • June 14th
  • June 21st
  • June 28th
  • July 5th

Students must attend a minimum of 6 out of 10 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 the access to this course.

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

Students will have are offered 20 weeks to continue the full module expectations and to book their final exam.  Students will be offered an additional 365 to complete their practicum and submit 3 client evaluations on their behalf.  There are no required readings to purchase, as all course materials are provided through the online module system.  Those who register recognize that to maintain membership with DTC all members are asked to submit a form and proof of continuing education every three (3) years following graduation.  There is no fee to maintain membership with DTC, simply a form and documents supporting your EU experience.

Applications and registration open with LIMITED SPACE at this time.

Instalment plans are available via Sezzle or by discussing options with DTC staff at info@doulatraining.ca.  If this is not an available option to you please contact info@doulatraining.ca to discuss other payment plan options with DTC.  Our registration staff is happy to work with you to discuss Etransfer, PayPal, or Square payment preferences that we can support you with.

LABOUR DOULA | VIRTUAL TRAINING| MARCH 25 -26

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for two days of virtual learning!

Client-centred and trauma-informed this workshop will go over the materials covered in our typical two-day “in-person” workshop and creates the opportunity for DTC members to sit and hold space with our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held via Zoom from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm EST.  Login details will be sent one week prior to the Virtual Workshop date.

All sessions are closed-captioned.

Sessions are recorded for DTC internal purposes only.

Regular certification rates apply and members can request to join a physical in-person workshop when we are next in their area (no additional cost applies).

*Those who register for the Dual Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula) will take part in 2 separate virtual trainings.

*Those who register for the Triple Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula, and Educator OR Fertility Doula) will take part in 3 separate virtual trainings. *Please specify whether you wish to take Educator OR Fertility in the comments section of your registration.

Those who are already registered with DTC can email info@doulatraining.ca to be added to this session (fee included in original registration).

A $ 250 fee applies if a student does not attend a workshop that they have registered for.  No exceptions will apply.  If you cannot attend please email two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled event.  All students must participate in an online or in-person to qualify as a component of their certification under DTC.

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

Your presence at the live webinar in its totality, agreement to be recorded, and present during the session with your camera on.  No partial credit can be awarded.

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

There are no age or educational pre requisites 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 each live session that you attend, acting in a professional manner.  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 online, please email us with special requests at least fourteen days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to contact 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 online training activities as representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for your own scheduling, discipline, and follow 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.

Evidence-Based Research for Birthworkers | APRIL 25 @ 6:30 PM

This 90-minute webinar will show you how to compile evidence-based research and summarize it for your client’s specific needs. We will cover turning client issues and concerns into research questions, creating good keyword searches, and strategies for making research accessible to non-medical people.
This is a vital topic for birthworkers because comprehensive, evidence-based information is a huge part of how we support our clients to have a positive, empowered experience.
Become an expert in helping your clients separate the wheat from the chaff in a vast field of information.  Using case studies, and Q&A, birthworkers will leave with concrete tools to help clients fill gaps in their knowledge, distinguish credible scientific literature from misinformation, and present academic research in a way that anyone can understand.

Labour Doula | St. John’s NL | April 22nd & 23rd, 2023

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

Client-centred and trauma-informed events teach students through dynamic materials and live demonstrations!  Our workshop events create the opportunity for DTC members to learn, hold space, and boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm local time.  Venue and event details will be sent approximately two (2) weeks prior to the workshop date.

***Those who register for the Dual Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula) must also complete the training for the second component of their stream.  To add your additional training date please check out our online calendar and email info@doulatraining.ca to request your registration for the second stream event.

***Those who register for the Triple Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula, and Educator OR Fertility Doula) will take part in training days for labour doula, postpartum doula AND 1 day of educator training at a later date of the registrants choosing. ***Please specify whether you wish to take Educator OR Fertility in the comments section of your registration. Fertility training is done online only.***

Those who are already registered with DTC can email info@doulatraining.ca to be added to this session (fee included in original registration).

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

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to provide DTC staff proof of vaccination, and to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

Training Information & Eligibility:
You have read through the Resources & Policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment & 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 exam.

There are no age or educational pre requisites 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.

$250 fee applies if a student does not attend a workshop that they have registered for.  No exceptions will apply.  If you cannot attend please email two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled event.  All students must participate in an online or in-person to qualify as a component towards their certification under 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 representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for your own scheduling, discipline, and follow 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.

COVID Protocols and Venue Policies:
Provincial and venue policy related to COVID-19 will apply.  All participants will be encouraged to wear masks and follow proper hygiene practices related to COVID-19 protocols for local health units and provincial guidelines.   Persons who are not comfortable attending an in-person event at this time can opt to attend a DTC virtual workshop, as listed at www.doulatraining.ca.

Perinatal Educator | VIRTUAL | February 18, 2023

Join our experienced Doula Canada instructors for your online educator training!

Client-centered and trauma-informed this workshop will go over the materials covered in our typical one-day “in-person” workshop and creates the opportunity for DTC members to sit and hold space with our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held via Zoom from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm EST.  Login details will be sent one week prior to the Virtual Workshop date.
All sessions are closed-captioned.
Sessions are recorded for DTC internal purposes only.

Regular certification rates apply and members can request to join a physical in-person workshop when we are next in their area (no additional cost applies).

*Those who register for the Triple Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula, and Educator OR Fertility Doula) will take part in 3 separate trainings for each of their registered streams. *Please specify whether you wish to take Educator OR Fertility in the comments section of your registration.

Those who are already registered with DTC can email info@doulatraining.ca to be added to this session (fee included in original registration).

$250 fee applies if a student does not attend a workshop that they have registered for.  No exceptions will apply.  If you cannot attend please email two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled event.  All students must participate in an online or in-person to qualify as a component towards their certification under DTC.

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

Your presence at the live webinar in its totality, agreement to be recorded, and present during the session with your camera on.  No partial credit can be awarded.

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

There are no age or educational pre requisites 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 each live session that you attend, acting in a professional manner.  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 online, please email us with special requests at least fourteen days before the scheduled training.  If, during the training, a need for an accommodation arises, you are expected to contact 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 online training activities as representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for your own scheduling, discipline, and follow 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.

Webinar: Supporting Young Parents, an event with Lorena Murialdo of Planned Parenthood Toronto

This 60 minute webinar will host Lorena Murialdo, from Planned Parenthood Toronto, who will lead a discussion about supporting young parents in today’s birth and parenting climate.

What will this webinar cover?

We took it to our DTC crowd to ask them what they would like to learn most about!
When we asked our members about what they would like to see covered, some of the answers included:

-What support young parents need in the early postpartum period
-What it feels like to become a parent when you (may or may not) still be being “parented”
-Resources best suited to youth in terms of things like continuing education, housing, age appropriate support, and community services,
-Mental health for young parents and how unplanned parenthood impacts labour, birth, and postpartum times

-Fostering healthy relationships with doulas and others in the absence of parental support

Lorena will address many of these and speak to what she feels is pertinent to her work and important for modern birth workers to be aware of.

This 60 minutes is sure to be packed full of thought-provoking suggestions and points for growing competencies when supporting young parents!

When:  Tuesday October 18th @ 1pm EST via Zoom
*recorded for playback (registrants only)/ closed-captioning available at all DTC events*

Cost:  $20 per participant

For more information about Planned Parenthood Toronto please visit:  https://ppt.on.ca/

__________________________________________________________________________

Lorena Murialdo is a Community Health Promoter with over 25 years of experience
working with diverse youth and young parent communities. Lorena specializes in
mental health, sexual health, life skills, personal development and parenting. Lorena is
also owner of b_mindful and over the past decade has focused her work on advancing
mindfulness based stress reduction and intervention programs as well as social and
emotional learning opportunities in educational, health care settings and a range of non-
profit and for profit work place environments and organizations. Lorena has a genuine
interest in community health and health promotion initiatives that enable youth and
young parents to gain greater control over the decisions and actions that affect their
overall health and wellbeing.

Labour Doula I VANCOUVER I January 27-28, 2023

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

Client-centred and trauma-informed events teach students through dynamic materials and live demonstrations!  Our workshop events creates the opportunity for DTC members to learn, hold space, and to boost their confidence alongside peers and our experienced team of instructors.

The workshop will be held from 9:00am to 5:00pm local time.  Venue and event details will be sent approximately two (2) week prior to the workshop date.

*Those who register for the Dual Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula) will participate in two full days of training.  To add your additional training date please check out our online calendar and email info@doulatraining.ca to request your registration in the second stream event.

*Those who register for the Triple Stream (Labour Doula, Postpartum Doula, and Educator) will take part in three (3) full days of training (October 28, 29, & 30).

Those who are already registered with DTC can email info@doulatraining.ca to be added to this session (fee included in original registration).

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

Your presence at the event in its totality, agreement to provide DTC staff proof of vaccination, and to participate in a professional manner throughout the training.  No partial credit can be awarded.

Training Information & Eligibility:
You have read through the Resources & Policies at www.doulatraining.ca, including but not limited to our Cancellation Policy, Equity & Inclusion Policy, Harassment & 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 exam.

There are no age or educational pre requisites 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.

$250 fee applies if a student does not attend a workshop that they have registered for.  No exceptions will apply.  If you cannot attend please email two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled event.  All students must participate in an online or in-person to qualify as a component towards their certification under 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 representative in the role of doula support or perinatal support.  You are responsible for your own scheduling, discipline, and follow 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.

COVID Protocols and Venue Policies:
Provincial and venue policy related to COVID-19 will apply.  Social distancing will be in place.  All participants will be encouraged to wear masks and follow proper hygiene practices related to COVID-19 protocols for local health units and provincial guidelines.   Persons who are not comfortable attending an in-person event at this time can opt to attend a DTC virtual workshop, as listed at www.doulatraining.ca.