Help getting started

[Otterella]

I am a DONA trained doula who is working on getting certified. My very first client (who I met through my ICEA class) is due April 11th, and we will be meeting for the first time (outside of class) next week. I am embarrassed to say I have not given ANY thought to what kind of paperwork, educational materials, legal documents, etc, I should be providing, or how to organize our first official prenatal visit. I would love to get some advice from experienced doulas! Thanks!

[jeninejessica]

No tips really, but just wanted to say I'm in the same boat. My first client is due March 22. I'm sooooo excited, but also sooooo nervous. I have also met this clinet informally before (get togethers for a message board), but never in this capacity, and I'm worried about feeling awkward!

I think DONA has a few sheets in the certification package that need to be filled out ahead of time. I was also told the Dads and Doulas paper is really good to have, as well as maybe the position paper if she doesn't really know what to expect?

[MindfulBirth]

Have you been to alldoulas dot com yet?

Not only can the very knowledgeable and welcoming ladies there give you some good tips, but you can download some sample contracts and handouts.

Best wishes on your new doula business!

[Rockies5]

You should have a contract at least, outlining what you can and can't do sort of a scope of practice thing. MOst org supply an outline to you.

If she's in your ICEA class, are you an educator as well? If so, what more will she need? When I doula for a couple/single that is in my CBE classes we generlaly don't need anything extra as far as education goes, but I do like to meet and chat outside of class to get a really good idea of exactly what they want my role to be, and get extra info (like what their OB is telling them or what they heard on the tour that may or may not be 100% accurate.)

There is a GREAT natural minded doulas thread in the finding your tribe section here, if you don't want to jump websites that is. I'm not certian we should be advertising other message boards here, esp if they have a paid membership. (??? maybe??)

[Otterella]

When I said in my class, I meant the class I'm taking for my certification. I'm not the teacher. Thanks for the tips. Keep them coming!

[Sage.Naissance]

Hi,
Best wishes with your Certification. I know a lot of people have trouble get docs to sign evaluations. Especially with a new doula, everything is so bloody exciting its hard to remember to take any notes at all, let alone try and track down staff and get them to evaluate you when a lot of them dont even know what a doula is!
I dont certify so I dont know personally.
But about the birth, just be cool and realize that you being there at all MAKES AN EMMENSE DIFFERENCE. No matter what happens more than likely that woman is better off for you having been present.
Doula work is really important, remember that through the great challenges you will face.