Introductory Doula Training
The Introductory Doula Training provides aspiring Doulas with the requisite knowledge of the physical and technical aspects of pregnancy, labor and birth needed to attend the Doula Certification Workshop. Attending the Introductory Doula Training replaces the DONA certification requirement of attendance at a Childbirth Preparation Series.

Learner Objectives

Labor and Birth Physiology Medical Technology and Medications Introduction to Labor Support Techniques Introduction to Breastfeeding Hospital Practices Overview of the Doula Profession

Doulas-in-training practice coping techniques for labor at a Doula Certification Workshop

Doula Certification Workshop
This 16 hour workshop is a DONA approved course, which constitutes the first step toward becoming a nationally certified Doula. Attending this workshop qualifies participants for both national certifications. The prerequisites for participation in this workshop are:

• Read two books:  The Doula Book by Klaus, Klaus and Kennel OR The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin (see www.dona.org) AND The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer (see www.hencigoer.com/order).
• Attend the Introductory Doula Training, or
• Observe a childbirth preparation series (not as an expectant mom)

The Doula Certification Workshop is the foundation upon which birth service providers build their careers. At the workshop, you will meet aspiring Doulas, Midwives, Childbirth Educators, and women transitioning from other careers. Emphasis is placed on practical, hands-on services Doula typically provide.  You will learn about the physical, spiritual, psychological and emotional aspects of pregnancy, labor, birth and postpartum. You will gain an understanding of your role during each phase of the birth process, and will have the opportunity to practice providing services related to aspects of the Doula/Client relationship, such as labor support and home visits. You will also explore effective marketing techniques and business practices.

Learner Objectives

Hands-on Labor Support Techniques Comprehensive Doula-Client Interaction Marketing and Business Practices Resources for Birth Internship Opportunities DONA Scope of Practice, Mission Statement and Standards of Practice Ethics and Responsibility Postpartum Responsibilities Cesarean Birth and Vaginal Birth After Cesarean

Doulas-in-training practice positions for labor at a Doula Certification Workshop

Six-Week DONA Approved Doula Certification Workshop
This six-week series is comprised of all the objectives contained in the traditional, 16-hour weekend workshop (described above).  Participants will meet one night a week for six consecutive weeks from 6-9 PM.  Trainings are held in various locations in the Sacramento and San Francisco areas only (check our workshop calendar for availability).  Prerequisites are the same as for the weekend workshop: 

• Read two books:  The Doula Book by Klaus, Klaus and Kennel OR The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin (see www.dona.org) AND The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer (see www.hencigoer.com/order).
• Attend the Introductory Doula Training, or
• Observe a childbirth preparation series (not as an expectant mom)

To meet the Introductory Doula Training requirement, check the workshop calendar or contact the instructor for more options.

Continuing Education Units

Childbirth Education Specialists is a provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, CEP # 13002. Most states offer reciprocity and will honor units earned through California Board of Registered Nursing providers. ICEA contact hours available.

Who can benefit from contact hours?

Registered Nurses Nursing Students Certified Nursing Assistants Licensed Vocational Nurses	Medical Assistants Childbirth Educators Massage Therapists
Please note that actual approval of your contact hours is up to each license issuer.

Refresher Trainings - NEW!
Childbirth Education Specialists would like to extend an open invitation to doulas who have previously trained with us and would like a refresher training.  Trainings are continuously evolving so you can refresh and enhance your skills.  Refresher trainings are free of charge, though there is a $25 fee for materials, and are only available if there is space in the workshop you'd like to attend.  Contact us for more information.

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Childbirth Education Specialists 2007