How to Create a Doula Contract

#1. Understand the purpose of your contract. It is essentially a tool for communication. Your contract (or “Letter of Agreement”) commits to writing the terms of the doula-client relationship, especially around services provided, fees, and terms of payment. You are seeking to create transparency and mutually agreed upon expectations. 

#2. Do a little research. Look online for sample contracts. Many doulas make their contracts publicly available on their websites. Hopefully, your doula training organizations provided a sample contract as part of your training. Use these samples as a jumping off point, but put your own brand and personality into the document. My book, The Doula Business Guide, provides detailed guidance about contracts and other risk reduction strategies for doulas.

#3. Review the contract verbally with your client and key decision makers and provide an opportunity for questions and clarification. Remember, it’s all about communication, and folks have variable strengths and capacities in how they best process information.

#4. Think of your contract as a work in progress. Over time, your business will evolve. Services offered may expand or narrow. Fees and terms will likely change. New client boundaries may need to be put in place. This is all to be expected.

#5. Endeavor to establish a trusting relationship. This is the doula way. While some doulas may feel more comfortable consulting a lawyer, most find it is not necessary. If you do seek a lawyer’s input, try to keep your contract language simple and non-threatening and the legalese to a minimum.