The path forward |
What is a death doula? |
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“Doula” is an ancient Greek word, meaning “a woman who serves.” Today the title applies to men or women who pursue this line of service. The term is familiar to most as a professional who provides support for women throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period.
Just as a birth or labor doula helps to bring life into the world, there are death doulas who assist those who are dying, and their loved ones, as they are depart this world. Other terminologies include death midwives, and End-of-Life (EOLD) doulas. An EOL doula provides non-medical, holistic support and comfort to the dying person and their family. This may include education about the death process as well as emotional and spiritual guidance, or practical care. My EOL (End-of-Life) practice focuses on |
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Meeting you where you are emotionally and guiding you through this journey. I tailor my services to meet the individual and the family’s needs – whether that be the dying person, their loved ones, or both.
I have training and skills to help to guide you through what may be your most stressful life event. At times like these, family and friends may not be able to offer you the support you need, as they are struggling also. I bring a knowledgeable, compassionate presence into the family dynamic. I step in to help with all things great and small. The goal is to alleviate stress, fear, and regret for things left undone or unsaid prior to your loved one’s passing, and support you thereafter during the grieving process. |
A Necessary Conversation promotes
- Open-heart, deep and vulnerable conversations around death, dying and grief
- Education to family members about dying and death processes so they understand what to expect
- Information on how to best support and communicate with the dying; and insight into what their loved one is experiencing
- Resolutions – how to nurture going in peace
- Facilitating EOL planning – using the 3-E’s package
- Emotional counsel – sitting vigil and death bed guidance
- After death – death care, celebration of life, home funerals, life celebrations
- Grief work
- Locating resources for everyday basic needs during crisis
- Securing resources for ongoing emotional support
Individual EOL doula skills and personalities vary, so you should research to find the best fit for you. I welcome the opportunity to speak with you and assist you in this search, whether you go with A Necessary Conversation or another provider.
For a deeper dive, you can learn more about NEDA’s EOLD Scope of Practice and Codes of Ethics.
For a deeper dive, you can learn more about NEDA’s EOLD Scope of Practice and Codes of Ethics.
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