Welcome to Mothering msadler626! I hope your training goes well. I would look for volunteer programs in your area and also talk with your instructor. I was part of a volunteer program that matched moms with doulas through a free clinic. My instructor also passed along inquiries she received about free or low-cost doula services. You should also see if you can get involved with the doulas in your community. If they have someone requesting a lower fee and they cannot help them, they can pass them along to you. It's a good way to get experience.

 

New doulas in my area offer low cost services on Kijiji or Craigslist. I would not recommend offering services for free, for a number of reasons.
http://www.jodithedoula.com/2013/03/02/no-free-births/

 

Seeking volunteer Doula in Denver, CO

My husband and I relocated to Denver, CO 5 wks ago from Portland, OR. I'm currently 36wks pregnant and would really like to have a doula at our birth but, really can't afford one. I have heard that women training to be doulas will do births for little or no charge since they need a certain number for their certification. Can anyone direct me to a site or group here in Denver for this?

Kind regards,
Clare

 

I would recommend contacting the Colorado Doulas Association. They might be able to give you a referral. Congratulations!

 

I wouldn't recommend offering free births, charge something at least to cover your gas, food while your at the birth and childcare if needed.


As far getting clients goes the doula match website worked great for me, network with other doulas in your area they might have a mama that they can't take on because they are going out of town. Set up a website and facebook page and get out there, post birth articles and talk about your training, contact the childbirth education dept and midwives in your area and tell them a little bit about yourself.

 

Don't ever offer free services unless it's your family.