Hi! I REALLY want to become a postpartum doula, however, I'm not sure of the best organization to be certified by. Also, I'm a divorced single parent of a two-year old, and I'm not sure how much it costs to become certified, if you are required to carry liability insurance, and if being a doula can financially support my son and I. I was in Rn school and decided I wanted to spend more time with the people who needed me. I just did not like what I saw in the hospitals. I really want to do this, it would bring me eternal bliss. HELP!!!

I'm in Houston,Texas Thanks so much, Lizabeth

-- Lizabeth Leigh Love (mommycbc@hotmail.com), April 18, 2001

Answers

Hi Lizabeth! I am a firm believer in you must do what you are called to do. In the caregiving business you have a lot of options. Having been to nursing school you have a step in the door already. Houston is also a very big market and I would think you would do well there. I am part of an organization that offers a certification program that is sure to be affordable. It has financial backing by people that really believe in the organization so they are able to offer certification, education and support for a very low price. They even have a payment plan if you need it.

If you sign up by the end of the month (just a couple more days) then you can receive the certification package for both the birth doula and the post partum doula all for the price of one program. You better hurry though, the special is almost over. They also have an free intranet community open to birth professionals only. You can be affiliated with any organization, but must have proper credentials.

Check it out and email me if you have any questions.

Good Luck!

Tricia L. Saxbury, CD (AmDN) Babysteps@americandoulanetwork.com Baby Steps Birthing Solutions (Central MO)

-- Tricia Saxbury (babysteps@americandoulanetwork.com), May 28, 2001.