Is mentoring available for doulas?

Are you a newly trained doula? Have you ever wished you could be a fly on the wall and observe an experienced, professional doula at work? Perhaps watch how she/he handles questions during a new client interview, or observe interactions with medical personnel or hospice staff (especially when those interactions are trending adversarial)? It makes perfect sense for doulas to desire mentoring. Who doesn’t appreciate a little hand holding as we take our first steps in acquiring new skills?

While mentoring for doulas may be desirable, is it available?

The short answer is “No,” but there may be exceptions. Most practicing doulas are uncomfortable inviting an inexperienced doula whom they don’t know to their clients’ intimate family moments. They may assume that to do so would be a violation of the client’s privacy. They might rightfully question the added value that the “shadow doula” brings from the client’s perspective. For this reason, it really isn’t done, though some doulas may feel comfortable incorporating an unpaid helper into their practices. It might be a bit easier to find a postpartum doula whose client would benefit from yet another pair of hands in the home (e.g., to help with multiples).

New doulas can always ask, but be aware that agreeing to mentor someone is more work, not less, for the doula mentor and there is little incentive for her/him to do so. Presuming that mentoring should be provided free to new doulas is not likely to meet with a positive reception. Humility rather than entitlement will work better. And think about how you might bring added value as a doula mentee to your mentor.

What is a new doula to do then?

If you are not successful in finding a doula mentor, I encourage new doulas to trust themselves, summon their courage, and jump in the deep end after training. You will find a way to be a comfort to the family you are serving even (especially?) if it is your first client. Here are some additional tips:

• Develop (or join) a doula network in your community or online. A lot of informal mentoring is available—doulas helping each other—especially in doula Facebook groups. There are local forums and theme-based groups (e.g., groups with a focus on business topics).
• Consider starting out as a volunteer to get some experience presenting yourself as a doula and grow your confidence. I have noted that after serving even as few as three clients/families, newly trained doulas start owning their title “doula” as they witness the positive effect of their efforts for the folks being served.
• Search for training that incorporates formal mentoring. While not common, there are a growing number of community-based doula programs—often aimed at serving targeted under-served or “at risk” communities. These programs typically offer subsidized training, mentoring, and jobs to community doulas.

Bottom Line: Be your authentic self and don’t promise more than you can deliver. That will take the pressure off. You and your business will always be a work in progress and your clients will always be your greatest teachers.