FAQs
How long does it take to become a certified doula?
After you complete your training, you will have two years to complete your certification packet and apply to become a Birth, Baby! Academy Certified Doula. You can apply for a one year extension for $100.00 if you find yourself needing more time.
Do I have to have children to become a doula?
No. Many doulas start their work without having children of their own. This is a great topic of conversation when networking with other doulas. You can learn from their personal experiences of doula work without being a parent.
Upon completion of the Birth, Baby! Academy Birth Doula Certification, will I be prepared for being a doula right away?
Yes! Part of the reason we created this program is to give doulas a well-rounded education to equip them with the skills to hit the ground running with their practice. Our training and certification are thorough (see the syllabus for a list of topics) and assist in making prospective doulas feel confident to jump in to doing what they love: supporting families through pregnancy and birth!
Do I have to attend any births to submit for certification?
Yes, there are a total of 3 births required for certification. There are two pathways that a BBA trained doula can take for their certifying births – the first is the traditional pathway, where you attend three births, fill out a birth evaluation form, and gather review forms from the client or attending provider. The second pathway is the mentorship pathway, where you will work with your doula trainers through the course of your journey with your clients, from hire to birth.
Does this program help me get clients for the three certifying births?
You are responsible for finding, interviewing with, and contracting your own clients. The training will have education to equip you with the tools to help with each step of this process. If you are struggling with landing clients, you can inquire about our mentorship options.
After completing my certification, will I have to recertify in the future?
Birth, Baby! Academy believes in lifetime certification. We also recognize there may be times when advanced certification or education are desired. While our program carries a lifetime certification, you may apply for advanced certification any time after the two-year anniversary of your certification date. To obtain an advanced certification, you must: 1) Show proof of completing three continuing education courses over those two years, 2) Submit reviews from three past clients. To maintain the advanced certification, this must be completed and submitted every two years. Each time you submit for advanced certification, you will also be required to submit a payment in the amount of $100.00.
I have already trained as a birth doula with another program, but I’m looking for continuing education. Is there a discount for people who have already been through training?
Yes! If you have a previous training/certification as a doula, you may submit proof of such and receive $150 off your training. Additionally, if you submit 5 reviews from past clients, the certifying birth requirement will be waived.