CRUISING ALONG

ekphrastics asked: Hi, I was wondering how one actually becomes an abortion doula. I understand that it's volunteer work, but do I need qualifications? Is there an age restriction (ex: 18+)? Lastly, how would I get started once I've met all the requirements?

themidwifeisin:

mariquitachara:

There aren’t any close to me.

So start one of your own!  The Doula Project leads trainings across the country and will often come to you only for the cost of their travel and housing to train you and anyone who is interested in joining you!

Go here to read more about their services:

themidwifeisin:

Abortion doulas are the bomb!  Do it!

The idea of the abortion doula was started by The Doula Project of NYC. 

The Doula Project is a volunteer-run, collectively led organization of over fifty full-spectrum doulas. Our doulas have backgrounds as social justice activists, teachers, childbirth educators, birth doulas, social workers, and reproductive health professionals. We partner with Planned Parenthood Brooklyn, Planned Parenthood Bronx, several public hospitals, and other service providers to provide full-spectrum doula support to a diverse body of clients.

Almost immediately, other activists, birth works, and reproductive justice community members across the country realized how necessary and good this service was.

There’s:

• Full Spectrum Doulas in Seattle
• Open Umbrella Collective in Asheville, NC
• Find more via the map HERE.
• Join the Full Spectrum Doula Network

Read “How do I become an abortion doula” here, or find the doula program closest to you, and look up their application process and suggestions.

Most organizations will train you themselves.  Good luck!

As one of the pioneering full-spectrum doula care providers, we have developed an extensive sliding-scale training platform that is adaptable to multiple needs. We have trained clinics, medical students, activists, university students, and organizers around the country. Contact us at national[a]doulaproject.org for more information about our trainings and public education programming.

They have a “Start Up Guide” for people looking to start their own Doula Projects and can help you through the whole process.  I bet that your area really needs a full spectrum doula project - go out there and do it!

Good luck!