How is having a doula/having doula support different than my family or friends?

A doula is specifically trained to tend to your needs and wants, and stays current with new information and guidance. Our work is evidence based and researched. Our job and support is not based on opinions or what we would like you to do. While your friends and family may be well intentioned, sometimes what may be perceived as help and good advice from them, may be overwhelming and damaging for you and your family. In addition, there are often tensions in family, or friends that simply want to be involved, etc. A doula can help buffer and advocate for you, and your family’s needs.

This does not mean that others cannot be involved. It means that visits and help should be at your discretion. I can help you come up with a plan for what is best for YOU, not only what others would like to do.

What are your qualifications/what training have you had?

Kangaroula: Trained by the founders of Kangaroo Mother Care, Nils and Jill Bergman. Certificate received from Neuroscience for Improved Neonatal Outcomes (NINO), following Kangaroula program through BirthWorks International.

Miscarriage and Pregnancy Loss Doula: Certification received following Miscarriage Doula training syllabus through the Miscarriage Doula Collective.

Bereavement Doula: Certification recieved and updated through the Bereavement Doula Collective.

End of Life (Death) Doula: Training completed through the International End-of-Life Doula Association.

Postpartum Doula: Certification received following Postpartum Doula training syllabus through Birth Works International.

Newborn Care Specialist + Sleep Conditioning : Training and Certificates received through the Newborn Care Training Academy.

Additional Training Courses and Topics:

Breastfeeding Works!, Infant and Adult CPR/First Aid/AED, What is the Infant Microbiome, How to Explain the Microbiome, Support at the Funeral Home, Perinatal Bereavement Care, Complications in Grief, Support Groups for Grieving Families, Care of Grieving Children, Trauma Informed Care for Perinatal Bereavement, Pregnancy Loss in the Emergency Department, Cultural and Social Diversity in Perinatal Bereavement Care, and The Microbirth Plan Conference 2023.

What does a Postpartum Doula do and not do?

Postpartum doulas are skilled and knowledgeable about the care and development of newborns as well as a parent's physical and emotional recovery and adjustment to parenthood. We provide non-judgmental guidance on newborn care and feeding, assist parents with their recovery, care for baby so parents can care for themselves, help older siblings make a healthy adjustment, maintain family routines and rhythms, and provide practical household assistance. I can care for your children while you shower, nap, or have a moment to yourself. I can also help prepare family meals, fold your laundry, play with your older children, and provide light housework.

Postpartum doulas don't do things like provide medical care, administer medication, or advise parents on any medical or clinical topics. Instead, postpartum doulas provide the information, resources, and support that parents need to make the best decision for their family. Postpartum doulas also don't provide primary childcare or take over parenting for you. Instead, we'll help you find the tools, techniques, and mindsets that you need to feel successful and positive in your parenting journey.

What if I don’t want to do what you suggest (typically for Kangaroula or Postpartum Doula)?

No problem! I will provide you information on evidence based practices, but it is ultimately your decision what you choose to take on board. We can certainly discuss options and what you think is best.

How far in advance do I need to schedule?

As far out as possible, however, I absolutely understand in this field, sometimes it’s difficult to plan.

How do I set my schedule?

This completely varies person to person and family to family. For each service, I would recommend 1-2 initial 1-2 hour sessions to determine your goals and needs. From there, if you would like Kangaroula services, typically this would be immediately following birth. Since Kangaroula specialize in those first few days, perhaps you would have four hours a day for the first three days, or if you have a baby in the NICU, you may request three hours a day, three days a week. For Postpartum services, this may be five hours a day for first five days, then maybe two hours a day three times a week for eight weeks. There is no requirement! As I say multiple times throughout this website, I am here for you! Let’s figure out what you need together.

For any End of Life or Pregnancy Loss services, often these schedules are based around events and immediate needs, please schedule a consult and we can talk about what may best serve you.

What if I need help last minute / emergency?

No problem. Email, call, or text me and I will accommodate to the maximum extent possible.

What if I have a plan, then baby comes early or late (Kangaroula or Postpartum Doula)?

No problem. Contact me and we will arrange a schedule that fits your new needs!

Can I contact you even if not scheduled?

Always! Email, call, and text are always available to you. If you have an urgent need, please leave a message if I don’t answer a call, or be clear with “URGENT” for emails or texts so I know how to prioritize.

What hours are you available to schedule?

I do not have set hours. We’ll talk about how our schedules can match up!

How do your rates work?

My base rate is $30-40/hour.

Rates can be lower if hours are agreed on in a “package.”

Typically in hospital, birthing center, or in hospice care will have a higher hourly rate due to the intensity of needs at the time. If there is a further distance to travel, nonstandard times requested, last minute request, etc. the rate may be adjusted. Rates will always be discussed prior to agreeing on services.

Submit your own questions to: info@sunnydoula.com