Doula applying counter pressure to labouring mother
Labouring Mother in a water birth pool

Become a certified birth doula.

What You’ll Learn

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LEARNING OUTCOME #1

Explore all aspects of the Doula role

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LEARNING OUTCOME #2

Understand anatomy and physiology in relation to the human reproductive system

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LEARNING OUTCOME #3

Practice skills and gain knowledge to work as a Birth Doula

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LEARNING OUTCOME #4

Review our Code of Conduct and Professional Obligations

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LEARNING OUTCOME #5

Create an action plan for certification

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LEARNING OUTCOME #6

Plan to participate in our mentorship program

Curriculum

Our comprehensive programs and supportive mentorship not only provide practical knowledge and essentials for a successful doula practice, but also provide students the opportunity to establish their own convictions and identities as Doulas. This is accomplished by our ongoing commitment to guiding and supporting the intentions and practices of each student from an educated perspective.

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Below are the course topics in the Birth Doula Program. Full participation in all components are necessary for program recognition.

  • Defining the Doula role

  • Maternity Care in Canada

  • Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology for Doulas

  • Active Listening Skills

  • Spectrum of Pregnancy Care

  • Awareness & Empathy

  • Hands-on Doula Support Techniques

  • Balance & Self-care

  • Certification requirements

  • Business Skills for Doula

  • Professional Obligations and Code of Conduct

  • Normal Newborn Appearance

  • Infant Feeding & Support Skills

Upon completion, students are prepared to support families across the perinatal spectrum supporting pregnancy, birth and the immediate postpartum.

Study Options

Birth Doula Training

Feb. 7 - 10 in Calgary

May 29 - June 1 in Calgary

Sept. 18 - 21 in Grande Prairie

Nov. 13 - 16 in Calgary

Postpartum Doula Training

April 24 - 27 in Calgary

June 5 - 8 on Vancouver Island

Oct. 23 - 26 in Calgary

Nov. 27 - 30 in Edmonton

Our Instructors

Canadian Doula Founder, Erin Moyen

Erin Moyen

Director + Educator

Canadian Doula Academy Certificate Liaison, Heather Rogers

heather rogers

Certification Liaison + Educator

Frequently Asked Questions

  • A Doula is a nonclinical perinatal support professional who assists families before, during and after childbirth. Doulas provide emotional and physical support and information to help achieve the healthiest and most satisfying experience.

  • At the Canadian Doula Academy our programs were created for you! Our esteemed educators provide superior knowledge and foundational skills to aspiring doulas, healthcare professionals, educators and individuals passionate about reproductive health. We believe in-person education translates best for all perinatal support professionals working with clients and building practices.

  • All students are invited to participate in the Doula Mentorship offered upon completion of their classroom requirements. Our Mentorship program provides new ways for doulas to continue gathering, engaging and growing along with trusted CDA mentors. Meet-ups often include celebrations of success, doula business discussions, processing challenging situations and resource sharing. Doula Mentorship provides a supportive professional network as new careers are established.

  • At the Canadian Doula Academy we believe in-person education creates unparalleled connection, and translates best for all perinatal support professionals working with clients and building practices.

  • Of course we do! At the Canadian Doula Academy we value previous experience, education and the deep knowledge that doulas improve care for childbearing families. If you are already a doula reach out to our certification team for additional information regarding cross-certification.

  • A certificate of attendance documents your participation in a training program.

    Certification with the Canadian Doula Academy provides a recognized credential demonstrating your knowledge and skills as a competent doula, as well as your dedication to childbearing families and continuous learning within the profession.

  • Many insurance providers and/or Health Spending Accounts (HSA) will reimburse for the cost of a certified professional doula. We encourage every family seeking doula support to check with their insurance provider.

  • After our in-person Doula training all students are encouraged to work towards certification with the Canadian Doula Academy. Our alumni usually liken these steps to a self-driven practicum. The complete certification process typically takes 12 – 24 months. You will have continued support and guidance through our mentorship program, if you need it. All certification requirements will be covered during the training program, and we are confident you’ll master the next steps!

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Start your journey to become a certified CDA Doula