Thoughts on “Holding Space” and More (August Newsletter)

From a student: “I loved talking about what it means to “hold space.” I think sometimes in life we always want to have an answer for everything or be doing something when we have a friend or client in need of support. The idea of “holding space” really has helped me to be okay stepping back and realizing I do not have to fix this situation, but I do have the tools to be of great support.” 
—Kendra Davis
 
This comment generated a lightbulb moment for me. I had not really made this connection. When we are called to witness heartbreak or help people navigate tough decisions, many well-intentioned helpers are challenged to NOT go into fix-it mode. The concept of “holding space” affirms that we ARE doing something helpful, being supportive. When we are experience hard things, having a witness who sees what we go through, without judging us, who validates the struggle and remains present with the intention to support and comfort, is everything! Thanks for sharing that insight and connection for me, Kendra. For more on what it means to “hold space,” see Amy Wright Glenn’s Holding Space: On loving, dying and letting go. 

End-of-Life Doula News & Resources

• Caregiver Way intends to provide information and community support for navigating the caregiving journey. Resources address self-care, day-to-day challenges, financial and legal concerns, end-of-life, and life after caregiving. 
• Do I need a POLST (Physicians Orders for Life Saving Treatment) and an Advanced Directive? End-of-Life educator and hospice pioneer Barbara Karnes explains the difference. 
• After many months of collaboration, the folks at the Human Development Institute in Saint Petersburg have launched the first End-of-Life Doula Training program in Russia. A new cohort starts in September. The program is based on the curriculum developed by Patty Brennan of Lifespan Doulas and features Patty as a guest instructor. We now have a model for how to navigate the co-creation process and customize content with our international partners. I thoroughly enjoyed this discovery process and welcome inquiries from other countries!

Input from Birth Doulas is needed!

The purpose of this short voluntary survey is to gain a better understanding of the working conditions of birth doulas in the United States and any barriers doulas face in getting paid for their work. We cannot do this research without the input of doulas like you. Take the brief SURVEY here (will take an estimated 15 mins.).  
This research is sponsored by MITRE, a not-for-profit organization that manages federally funded research and development centers working in the public interest. If you have any questions about this survey, please contact Sabrina Movitz at smovitz@mitre.org.

Upcoming Fall Member Webinar

Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters in End-of-Life Work

With Tamara MacIntyre
September 18 (Wednesday, 8-9pm EDT)

Discover the critical role of trauma-informed care in end-of-life doula practices. This webinar will explore key principles and practical strategies to recognize and address past traumas, enhancing the care and support provided to individuals and families. Gain valuable tools to create a safe, compassionate environment and improve the overall end-of-life experience. Ideal for both experienced and new doulas. Become a member to take advantage of our bi-monthly continuing education webinars (and more!). 

Tamara MacIntyre, an end-of-life doula with over two decades in holistic healthcare, is dedicated to increasing death literacy and fostering open dialogue around mortality. She empowers individuals to navigate life’s transitions with confidence. As a death educator and advocate, Tamara provides end-of-life education, personalized care planning, and client advocacy. She also crafts sustainable willow coffins through consciousdeath.org, blending artistry with mindful end-of-life practices.