How to Become a Doula in Georgia (Three Steps)

Pregnancy and Postpartum Care for Everyone

Becoming a doula in Georgia involves three key steps:

1. Choose Your Doula Path

Doulas offer various types of support, so it's essential to decide which area aligns with your interests:

  • Birth Doula: Provides support during labor and delivery.
  • Postpartum Doula: Assists families in the weeks following childbirth.
  • Antepartum Doula: Supports individuals with high-risk pregnancies before birth.
  • Bereavement Doula: Offers care during pregnancy loss or infant death.

Understanding these roles will help you select appropriate training and certification programs.

2. Complete a Doula Training Program

Enroll in a reputable training program that offers comprehensive education and practical experience. In Georgia, several organizations provide such training:

  • DONA International: Offers workshops covering evidence-based information, hands-on techniques, and business practices. Training costs vary; for example, a Birth Doula Workshop in Atlanta is priced at $699.
  • DNT Network: DNT Network offers an accessible and affordable online doula certification course. This program is self-paced, designed to support a range of learning needs, and includes modules on non-medical birth support, postpartum assistance, and client care. The Birth Doula Certification course is priced at $99, making it an economical choice for aspiring doulas.
  • MaternityWise: Conducts retreat-style workshops in Atlanta, focusing on various aspects of doula care. Their comprehensive training package, which includes multiple certifications, is priced at $1,200.DNT Network offers an accessible and affordable online doula certification course.

3. Obtain Certification

While Georgia doesn't mandate certification, obtaining it can enhance your credibility and client trust. Certification requirements vary by organization but generally involve:

  • Training Completion: Successfully finishing an approved doula training program.
  • Practical Experience: Attending a specified number of births or postpartum sessions.
  • Examinations: Passing written or practical assessments.
  • Continuing Education: Engaging in ongoing learning to maintain certification.