Are you interested in becoming a doula in Toronto? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Toronto is home to some of the best doula training centers in Canada, offering comprehensive courses and certifications that will prepare you for a successful career as a professional birth assistant.
The knowledge gained through these programs will ensure that your clients receive exceptional care throughout their pregnancies and beyond. So if you’re ready to take the next step towards becoming a certified doula in Toronto, look no further than one of these top-notch training centers!
If you are a mother-to-be and is looking for a doula in Toronto, visit this page.
1. Doula Canada
Phone Number: 888.216.9782
Email: info@doulatraining.ca
Website: https://doulatraining.ca/
Training and Certification Offered:
- Labor & Birth Doula
- Postpartum Doula
- Dual Stream (Labor & Birth Doula AND Postpartum Doula)
- Triple Stream (Labor Doula, Postpartum Doula and your choice of Educator, Fertility Doula OR Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support)
- 14 Week Holistic Doula program
- Perinatal Educator
- Fertility Support Person
- Menopause Support Person, and more.
Mode of Training: Self Study start or through a scheduled in-person training
2. Yoga Mamas
Phone: 416.406.0116
Email: hello@yogamamas.co
Website: https://www.torontoyogamamas.com/birth-doula-training—becoming-a-certified-doula.html
Training and Certification Offered:
- Birth Doula Training
- Postpartum Doula Training
Mode of Training: Most of the training program is self-study.
Notes:
- Yoga Mamas offer DONA-accredited birth doula training workshop.
- For training questions: Free 20 minute call ; Free 30 minute public Zoom info session
3. The Doula Group
Email: support@thedoulagroup.ca
Website: https://www.thedoulagroup.ca/doula-training-ontario
Training and Certification Offered:
Birth Doula Workshop
Notes: The Doula Group offers a doula training program that is approved by DONA International.
4. DONA International
Phone: 888.788.DONA (3662)
Email: DONA@dona.org
Website: https://www.dona.org/become-a-doula/find-doula-training/
*Search for “Toronto” under “Search for a Workshop”
Training and Certification Offered:
- Birth Doula Workshop
- Postpartum Doula Workshop, and more.
Mode of Training: In-person, virtual, hybrid
5. Doula School
Phone: 1.877.BIRTH36
Email: hello@doulaschool.ca
Website: https://doulaschool.ca/
Training and Certification Offered:
- Birth Doula Training
- Postpartum Doula Training, and more.
Mode of Training: Most of the training program is self-study.
Notes: The training programs offered by Doula School are approved by DONA International, Yoga Alliance, and Lamaze.
6. Medix College
To get in touch: Click “Contact Us” found on the top navigation bar. Fill out the form, submit, and wait to be contacted.
Training and Certification Offered:
- Birth Doula Workshop
- Postpartum Doula Workshop, and more.
Website for Birth Doula Workshop: https://medixcollege.ca/certificates/birthdoulaworkshop/
Notes: Attending this workshop will bring you one step closer to achieving Birth Doula Certification from DONA International. Once the workshop is completed, you will be able to start working as a doula right away.
Website for Postpartum Doula Training Workshop:
https://medixcollege.ca/certificates/postpartumdoulaworkshop/
Notes: This workshop is a requirement for obtaining Postpartum Doula Certification with CAPPA (Childbirth And Postpartum Professionals Association). Once you complete the workshop, you can start your work as a doula right away.
7. Cherry Blossom Doula
Phone: 416.716.7868 (Suyin Jordan)
Email: suyindoula@gmail.com
Website: https://www.cherryblossomdoulas.ca/become-a-doula-2021/
Training and Certification Offered:
Postpartum Doula Training, and more.
Notes: Cherry Blossom Doulas Inc. provides CAPPA training for birth professionals.
8. Fanshawe
Phone: 519.452.4430
Email: https://www.fanshawec.ca/contact-us#email
Website: https://www.fanshawec.ca/programs/dla1-doula-studies/next#overview
Training and Certification Offered:
Birth Doula Training, and more.
As a doula, you can avoid potential misunderstandings and confusions with your clients if you make a Doula Contract. Read more about how and what to write on a Birth Doula Contract here.
Topics Covered During the Doula Training
The doula training centers in Toronto offer comprehensive courses and certifications to prepare aspiring birth assistants for a successful career. These programs cover an array of topics related to childbirth support, from emotional labor support and physical assistance during labor, to postpartum care.
Some of the subjects covered during a doula training include (but not limited to):
- Nutrition and Exercise during pregnancy
- Anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and childbirth
- Understanding the stages of labor
- Techniques for providing physical comfort measures
- Developing emotional support strategies
- Best practices for postpartum care and recovery
- Breastfeeding and postpartum care
- Cultural competency and inclusivity
- Communication skills and professional conduct
- Business fundamentals such as marketing, budgeting, legal concerns, and insurance policies (For students who want to run their own doula agency.)
Have you heard about Full Spectrum Doulas? Doulas who are full-spectrum provide support that goes beyond the typical responsibilities of a birth doula. They offer assistance and support for miscarriage, stillbirth, support for the LGBTQIA+ community, couples who want to adopt, and more.
How to Become a Certified Doula in Toronto
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to become a certified doula in Toronto:
Step 1: Research and Choose a Doula Training Program
The first step in becoming a certified doula is to research and choose a reputable doula training program. There are several organizations that offer doula training courses in Toronto and online, such as:
- DONA International (Doulas of North America)
- CAPPA (Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association)
- Birth Arts International
- Bebo Mia
When selecting a program, consider factors such as course content, certification requirements, cost, and the organization’s reputation. Make sure to choose a program that aligns with your values and goals as a doula.
Step 2: Complete the Required Training
Once you’ve chosen a training program, it’s time to complete the required coursework. Most doula training programs include both in-person and online components.
In addition to attending workshops and completing online modules, you may also be required to read specific books and articles, participate in group discussions, and complete written assignments.
Step 3: Gain Practical Experience
Before becoming a certified doula, you’ll need to gain practical experience by attending a specific number of births. The exact requirement will vary depending on the training program you chose, but typically ranges from 2 to 5 births.
During this time, you’ll work under the supervision of an experienced doula or mentor, who will help you develop your skills and provide feedback. This hands-on experience is essential for honing your abilities and building confidence in your role as a doula.
Step 4: Fulfill Additional Certification Requirements
In addition to completing your training and gaining practical experience, you may need to fulfill other requirements to become certified. These may include:
- Obtaining current CPR and First Aid certifications
- Writing birth stories or reflections on your attended births
- Completing a breastfeeding course or workshop
- Submitting evaluations or letters of recommendation from clients and healthcare providers
Ensure that you understand and complete all necessary requirements for your chosen training program.
Step 5: Apply for Certification
Once you’ve completed all the required training, practical experience, and additional requirements, it’s time to apply for certification. Each organization has its own application process, which may involve submitting documentation, paying a certification fee, and passing a written exam.
Upon successful completion of the certification process, you’ll be awarded your doula certification and can begin practicing as a certified doula in Toronto!
Step 6: Ongoing Education and Networking
As with any profession, ongoing education and networking are essential for staying up-to-date on best practices and maintaining a successful career as a doula. Join local doula groups, attend conferences and workshops, and stay connected with your training organization to continue learning and growing in your profession.
Cost of Becoming a Doula in Toronto
The cost for becoming a doula in Toronto varies greatly depending on the type of program and certification you choose. However, most courses offer packages that include all materials, access to resources, and a certificate upon completion.
On average, these courses range in price from $500 – $1500 depending on the length and depth of the curriculum.
Video: Toronto Doula Suzanne Lim Gives an Interview
Here’s a short video about the life of Suzanne Lim in her journey to become a doula and birth educator in Toronto. It depicts how the life of a doula affects the lives of others and how she gives back to her community.
It highlights the importance of support, education and empowerment for expectant families in their birthing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Interested Doula applicants commonly ask the following questions:
1. How long does it take for someone to become a certified doula in Toronto?
Typically, doula training courses in Toronto last around 10 weeks. This includes both online and in-person classes, with the average student completing their coursework within 6 months.
2. Do I need to have prior experience in order to become a certified doula?
No prior experience is required to become a certified doula. In fact, many doula programs offer beginner-level classes for those just starting out in the field.
3. What are the benefits of attending a doula training center in Toronto?
Attending one of the doula training centers in Toronto provides access to comprehensive coursework taught by certified professionals. Additionally, it offers networking and support opportunities, as well as certification from an accredited institution.
4. What kinds of topics are covered in doula training programs?
Doula training courses typically cover topics such as childbirth preparation and education for parents, physical assistance during labor and delivery, postpartum care, and running a business.
5. Is it possible to take doula training courses online?
Yes, some doula programs offer online courses that can be completed from the comfort of your own home. However, it is important to note that many programs require in-person classes for certification.
6. How does one become a doula trainer in Toronto?
Becoming a doula trainer in Toronto typically requires completing an accredited program and obtaining certification from a recognized institution. Additionally, many trainers have experience working as a doula or in the childbirth education industry.
Want to become an Ayurvedic Doula? Read this article to find out more on the benefits of using this traditional holistic approach on how to support women during and after childbirth.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a doula in Toronto has become increasingly popular in recent years. With the help of an accredited program, aspiring birth assistants can obtain their certification and begin their journey as a professional doula. These courses cover essential topics such as physical comfort measures, emotional labor support, business fundamentals, and postpartum care.
The cost for becoming a doula in Toronto can range anywhere from $500 – $1500 depending on the type of program and certification. Ultimately, becoming a certified doula is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience that allows you to help families through one of the most special times in their lives.
Note: Please visit the establishments directly through their website for up-to-date information. If you are interested in becoming a doula, please research each doula training center and make sure it is accredited with a recognized organization before attending.