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Brood-Approved Doula Training and Certification Programs

by | May 12, 2024

Are you passionate about supporting new and expecting parents through the transformative journey of parenthood? Are you looking to enhance your skills and knowledge as a doula? Brood is built upon the understanding and value that doulas play in providing compassionate care during pregnancy, labor, postpartum, and early parenthood.

Part of this is why we’re committed to supporting doulas in setting up a strong foundation for their career in care work — we do so by recommending top-notch training programs, and then should you be interested you can fill out an application here.

Whether you’re just starting your career as a doula or seeking to expand your expertise, we’ve curated a list of trainings that align with our values and standards of care.

In-person in British Columbia →

Doula Canada: This hybrid program offers in-person training (3 days for birth, and 2 days for postpartum), supplemented by self-directed modules. Doula Canada offers unique demonstrations, mentorship, and guidance to deepen your knowledge of pregnancy, birth, and early postpartum. These trainings are offered across Canada, with stops in Vancouver, Ontario, and beyond.
Labor & Doula Training & Postpartum Doula Training

Pacific Rim College: This training is the most comprehensive program in North America, based on complementary and integrative approaches, bridging the standard model of perinatal care with holistic therapies. Teachers include herbalists, midwives, acupuncturists, doulas, nurses, naturopaths, and more! This training is offered in Victoria, BC.
Holistic Doula Certificate

MotherWit: These are comprehensive trainings, typically over two weekends, totaling 70 class hours (total). With an emphasis on inclusivity and relational medicine — focusing on creating therapeutic presence and reducing reproductive trauma. These trainings are offered across Canada, with stops in Vancouver, Ontario, Quebec, and beyond.
Birth & Postpartum Doula Training

Comosun College: This evidence-based Micro-Credential builds the knowledge, skills, and confidence to support families through pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. You’ll explore physiologic birth, lactation, newborn care, and recovery in both home and hospital settings, while learning how to help clients make informed choices. The program also introduces how to get started as a doula in this largely self-employed field.
Doula Micro-Credential

In-person Across Canada →

If you’re based outside of British Columbia, there are many other excellent in-person programs across the country that align with Brood’s standards of care and inclusivity.

Doula School International: Offering in-person and hybrid trainings across multiple Canadian cities, Doula School International provides comprehensive programs grounded in trauma-informed care and reproductive justice.

Bebo Mia: A Canadian-based training organization centering marginalized voices, Bebo Mia offers inclusive and feminist-informed birth and postpartum doula certifications.

CAPPA Canada: One of the oldest and most respected certifying bodies, CAPPA provides professional-level doula and childbirth educator training with in-person sessions across Canada.

Douglas College Perinatal Program: A recognized academic pathway in perinatal and doula care, offering both in-person and blended learning options in British Columbia.

 

Online & Hybrid Doula Trainings →

For those who prefer flexibility or are balancing other commitments, these online or hybrid programs provide exceptional training opportunities that meet Brood’s standards.

Cornerstone Doula Trainings: A comprehensive, evidence-based training program offering live and recorded virtual classes covering full-spectrum doula care.

Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings: A social justice-centered, online program dedicated to birth equity, full-spectrum support, and inclusive care.

DONA International: The world’s first and largest doula certifying organization offering online courses in birth and postpartum doula support with global recognition.

Prodoula: Professional, skills-based virtual trainings that prepare doulas for private practice and agency work.

Doula Training Canada (Virtual Option): Offers virtual options for both birth and postpartum doula certification, ideal for those outside of in-person training hubs.

 

Community-Based & Specialized Doula Programs →

For doulas seeking to serve specific communities or expand their scope of care, these programs focus on culturally competent, trauma-informed, and full-spectrum approaches.

Indigenous Doula Collective of BC: Provides culturally rooted training and mentorship for Indigenous birth workers throughout British Columbia and beyond.

Full Spectrum Doula Circle: Focuses on abortion, miscarriage, and loss support with trauma-informed frameworks.

The Nesting Doula Collective: Offers training and mentorship centering racialized birth workers and clients, emphasizing anti-oppressive practice and community care.

Rooted Birth: Provides mentorship and continuing education for experienced doulas focusing on inclusive care, birth equity, and perinatal mental health.

ICTC (International Center for Traditional Childbearing): A U.S.-based, internationally recognized program uplifting the work and wisdom of Black and Indigenous midwives and doulas.

Here’s what sets us apart:

 

Comprehensive Support: We provide our doulas with ongoing support, mentorship, and resources to ensure they feel confident and empowered in their role. From client referrals to professional development opportunities, we’re here to help you thrive in your doula career.

Client-Centered Care:
We prioritize personalized, client-centered care that honors the diverse needs, preferences, and experiences of every individual and family we serve. As a doula with Brood, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you support.

Exclusive Training Opportunities:
In addition to recommending top-notch training programs, we also offer exclusive training opportunities and workshops designed to enhance your skills and knowledge as a doula. Whether you’re interested in advanced childbirth education or specialized techniques, we’re dedicated to helping you expand your expertise.

Community Engagement:
We’re actively involved in our local community and strive to be advocates for perinatal health, birth equity, and reproductive justice. By working with us, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in community events, outreach programs, and initiatives that promote positive birth, postpartum, and parenting experiences for all.

Flexible Work Arrangements:
We understand that flexibility is key when it comes to balancing your doula career with other responsibilities. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options and support our doulas in creating work arrangements that suit their individual needs and lifestyles.

Whether you’re an experienced doula, a practicing healthcare worker, or exploring a new career path, we welcome you to be a part of our community. We offer local clients, flexible hours, mentorship, continued education, above living wage, community discounts, and perks. We handle business admin, marketing, and outreach, so you can focus on caring for families and yourself. Criminal record check, CPR-C certification, proof of Covid-19 vaccination with booster dose, and doula training are required. We prioritize supporting marginalized community members, including 2SLGBTQIA+ and BIPGM folks. Whether you’re established, mid-training, or curious, we’re here for you. Let’s make a difference together.

Ready to embark on the next chapter of your care work journey? Click here to submit your application today.

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