Doulas- who did you train with?

[Chic_Mama]

I am trying to decide which organization to train and certify. I have been looking into quite a few and am trying to find the differences in what they stand for and why and so forth- I know that they all offer different ways of training.

So, who did you train/certify with and why?

Also, what do you think of distance learning as a doula? Is a training seminar necessary or are the distance learning programs just as good?

[SublimeBirthGirl]

I don't know anything about the distance training. I trained with both DONA and ALACE. DONA was good, but ALACE was amazing. It was just a totally different experience, more in-depth, inspiring, emotional. I can't recommend it highly enough.

[channelofpeace]

ALACE I drove 12 hours to get to one of their workshops and it was totally worth it.

[teachinmaof3]

I chose CAPPA. Initially I went with them because I thought I would get multiple certifications and with CAPPA I could stay with the same organization.

I think if you have a doula or midwife that you can apprentice under to get hands-on doula training, a distance program would work great! But if you don't have that and learn best having that hands-on stuff, you need to attend a training in person.

[hipmummy]

Trained with DONA and have yet to certify, too busy with Ds. I have a side business helping woman prepare their parents and labour support persons. I also help them make their birth plans. All of this I learned from experience not at the training.

[earthwise]

Training

I trained two years ago with CAPPA, but I am taking an ALACE training next month! Maybe I'll take a DONA training in another 2 years
CBI is another organizaton that is distance learning only, which I heard is excellent. But, if I did a distance learning, I would still take the workshop somewhere along the way because hands-on training can only enhance your skills, and you have an instructor showing you and answering questions as they come up.

Goodluck!

[DoomaYula]

ALACE. The workshop was so incredible. I'm really glad I trained with them. The office and the trainers are very accessible, even years after I took the workshop and certified. I appreciated taking a "test" because I felt like it showed my understanding of the information.

[MamaRabbit]

CBI. I had no choice but distance learning because I'm overseas. It really was great, though I wish I had a workshop available because for one, it would be so fun to get to some of the learning with someone instead by myself. The program is very thorough and focuses on the importance of communication which I found very helpful.

[Gunter]

i really valued the training i did with ALACE. their philosophy mirrors my own and i liked attending the three day workshop. i did that with a friend and we drove up to my hometown for it.

[Chic_Mama]

Okay- I probably should have specified- I am training postpartum. Currently, that I have found, ALACE or CBI only offer birth Doula training- Bummer! I do have doulas in my town that I can train under, and like hipmummy I already have a consultation business. I help new parents learn about all of their natural parenting choices that they may not otherwise be aware of and I help write birth plans.

[dynamicdoula]

Originally Posted by Chic_Mama

So, who did you train/certify with and why?

Also, what do you think of distance learning as a doula? Is a training seminar necessary or are the distance learning programs just as good?

I did my doula training through DONA. It was fine, but looking back there's a lot that I wish it had covered that it didn't. If I were to do it over I might have chosen ALACE, and/or Childbirth International (which didn't exist yet). I know the doulas who put together CBI and they're women I've looked up to since I became a doula, five years ago. They have a very thorough program and distance learning is an option. I would definitely do trainings with multiple organizations (as I could afford it, I should clarify ) over time just to see what all is being taught and get that whole 'round' experience. To start out though, I'd definitely go with ALACE or CBI.

I have chosen not to certify with anyone.

[JessesGirl23]

I initially trained with DONA then sponsored an ALACE workshop myself and chose to certify with ALACE. In my opinion the ALACE training was much much better.

[holly6737]

I trained with DONA. I didn't even know ALACE existed, though. Might have chosen them instead if I would have known.

[Marilyn82]

ALACE I heart them :