Tag: postpartum

14 WEEK HOLISTIC DOULA | VIRTUAL | SEPT 10 START

This 14-week program allows DTC 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 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
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • 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 September 10, 2023

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

  • Sept 17
  • Sept 24
  • Oct 1
  • Break Week Oct 8
  • Oct 15
  • Oct 22
  • Oct 29
  • Break week Nov 5
  • Nov 12
  • Nov 19
  • Nov 26
  • Dec 3

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.

Installment 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.

POSTPARTUM DOULA | CALGARY | JUNE 4

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

Please note that registration ends 2 weeks prior to the event

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 in 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 are 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.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

POSTPARTUM DOULA | LONDON | JUNE 4

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

Please note that registration ends 2 weeks prior to the event

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 in 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 are 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.

POSTPARTUM DOULA | TORONTO | MAY 6-7

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

Please note registration ends 2 weeks prior to the event! 

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 in 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 are 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.

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.

POSTPARTUM DOULA I REGINA I MAY 28

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

Please note registration ends 2 weeks prior to the event! 

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 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) 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 in 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.

POSTPARTUM DOULA I GRAND PRAIRIE I APRIL 30

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

Please note registration ends 2 weeks prior to the event! 

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) 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 in 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 trainings are 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.

Categories
Anti-racism work birth Health Care intersectionality Labour Doula LGBTQ2S+ Postpartum Doula Trauma Uncategorised understanding bias vulnerabiliity

Advocacy at Doula Canada

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1669384798061{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Doulas support birthers, babies, and family members during an intimate and emotionally charged experience that often involves many medical twists and turns along the way. For many doula clients, pregnancy and childbirth are among the most complicated experiences with our healthcare system they will have ever had to navigate. We know that birthers need to feel in control of what happens to their bodies and to be making informed choices about their care to create a positive experience and avoid trauma. 

Doulas can change a person’s healthcare experience for the better by supporting their bodily autonomy and informed decision-making. Additionally, we are well placed to notice systemic issues that impact our clients again and again, and to use our knowledge to encourage and support changes.

Learning to engage in this type of advocacy within the scope of the doula’s role, so that our efforts are helpful, is an important aspect of our learning and professional development. To support our students and alumni, Doula Canada has developed an advocacy framework that defines advocacy in the context of doula practice and describes approaches to individual advocacy that are aligned with respect for client autonomy. 

Our framework identifies three categories of advocacy that doulas engage in: systemic advocacy, self-advocacy promotion, and individual advocacy. 

Systemic advocacy is any effort to change, remove, or add a policy or process that affects the lives of birthers, families, babies, or doulas. Examples include lobbying your elected federal representative to change the birth evacuation policy or amplifying social media campaigns that raise awareness regarding perinatal mental illness.

While we don’t usually think of it as such, our work with clients to support them to know the evidence regarding their perinatal circumstances, and ask the right questions of their healthcare providers is a form of advocacy. We encourage them to use their voice and make their conversations more effective because they are armed with information.

Sometimes, especially in the birth room, it might be necessary to advocate for the client in more direct ways. It is important that this individual advocacy does not manifest as speaking for or over the client, or in a manner that could worsen their care or medical situation.

A 2020 paper by S.S. Yam based on interviews with doulas identified three types of tactics that doulas use to advocate for their clients during labour and delivery. She calls these “soft-advocacy” techniques because they differ from what we usually think of as advocacy. Staff and instructors at Doula Canada agreed they used these strategies and had lots of guidance to offer on exactly how to use them. Their guidance was used to develop the advocacy framework. 

The three tactics identified by Yam are 1) creating deliberative space, 2) cultural and knowledge brokering, and 3) physical touch and spatial maneuvers. 

Creating deliberative space refers to strategies that give the client more time to ask questions and make decisions. One example of how doulas do this is by noticing that care that deviates from their preferences is about to happen and bringing it to the client’s attention, prompting them to ask about the intervention that is about to happen.

Cultural and knowledge brokering refer to the tactics doulas use to make sure the client understands medical jargon or cultural norms. This could involve paying close attention to the information provided by the medical team, observing how well this is understood by the client, and repeating the information in language that the client uses and understands.

Physical touch and spatial maneuvering refers to the ways we use our bodies and physical contact with the client to advocate for their needs. Examples include using our bodies to conceal the client from view, modeling consent by asking permission each time we touch the client, and using our presence to back up the client during interactions. 

The complete framework is linked below. It offers more detail on the three types of advocacy and the soft-advocacy strategies. It illustrates these concepts using case studies based on staff and instructor experiences. 

In 2023, Doula Canada will continue its work to support advocacy among its members by developing an advocacy toolkit from the framework and launching an advocacy working group for students and alumni. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_button corner_style=”rounded” size=”large” url=”https://stefanie-techops.wisdmlabs.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/advocacy-framework-paper.pdf” align=”center”]Click here to view the full Advocacy Framework document[/mk_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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.

WEBINAR: Fertility & Supporting Diverse Outcomes I September 19 @ 7:30pm EST

No fertility journey is alike! 

Individuals going through a fertility journey will often experience difficult decisions, situations, and roadblocks.

Join us for a 90 minute webinar on Monday September 19th at 7:30pm EST.

Live session, recorded playback, and post-session hand outs!

Workshop Description: 

To best support clients with their unique fertility experiences, this webinar is designed to help Fertility Doulas support their clients in a positive and practical way regardless of outcomes.

Join Jessica Palmquist, Fertility Coordinator and Fertility Instructor for Doula Training Canada, as she discusses options and offers ways to help clients have a useful and productive outlook on the circumstances of their fertility story.

Who can benefit from this webinar?
– Reproductive support persons who are offering fertility support in their community
– Persons interested in joining our Fertility Support Practitioner program 
– Healthcare and other reproductive related professionals who are interested in diversifying their knowledge
– Persons who are experiencing their own fertility journey

Webinar fee:  $20 per participant.  Recorded for playback/ closed captioning available at all DTC webinar events.