What types of services do you provide?
My services vary widely, and include but are not limited to: Assistance with preparation for legal documents such as a Living Will or an Advanced Healthcare Directive, DNR Order, Legacy/End of Life Projects, Comfort Sitting (in Silence or in conversation, depending on the clients needs/wants), Discussion of End of Life Choices available in the Client's state, Home Funerals, Rituals (related to the client's/care teams spiritual practices and preferences), Bedside Vigils, Guided Imagery/Meditation, Funeral/Memorial planning, Gatekeeping, 2 reprocessing sessions post-mortem. Requests for specific types of services will always be considered, but are never guaranteed.
What should clients know about your pricing(e.g., discounts, fees, packages)?
I have packages that are all inclusive for up to 80 hours of care, and I also have packages for those who've experienced a very sudden loss. When appropriate, I do have an hourly rate of $40/hour for those whose needs are not as extensive. I also offer sliding scale payment plan for those experiencing financial difficulty, and am more than happy to discuss those needs individually.
What is your typical process for working with a new client?
We will have an initial consultation for up to 1 hour where can get to know one another and I can go over all of the details of what your personalized care plan will look like and we can see if we will be a good fit. Once we have decided on those details, we will sign the contract and begin with a more in depth intake session to get to know all the personal wishes and desires of the client, and at this time, we will establish a basic schedule for sessions (apart from the active dying process).
What are some of the ways you have supported someone at end-of-life?
I assisted with care for my grandfather who was an Alzheimer's patient, I walked my mother to the gates when she passed from the effects of ITP, I helped my younger sister through the loss of her husband (he was a 38 year old Veteran) as well as having assisted with bedside care for many other friends and family members.
What advice would you give someone looking to hire an end-of-life doula?
Look for someone who you resonate with in personality as well as on a spiritual level, or at least someone who is willing to work to understand your personal beliefs and respect them appropriately. Connecting with someone who is the right fit is just as important as the work itself, and can result in an experience that is far superior than just going with the first Doula you find. It is perfectly acceptable to interview multiple people before making a decision, and it is definitely preferred.
What questions should clients think through before talking to doulas?
What are the client's physical, spiritual and emotional needs? What things are most important during the process? Will the Doula be able to provide the types of services I'm looking for? How much time will we need the Doula to be able to commit to us, and will they have the time and availability? Does the Doula possess the needed skills to work with us (Does the client have any health related issues or special needs the Doula should be aware of in order to properly care for the client)?
What populations are you best suited to serve?
I specialize in care for those with dementia, Neurodivergent Clients, adolescents/children, and those suffering from sudden loss or suicide, but I am able to work with clients and families from many different backgrounds.
Do you offer any physical modalities or specialty training?
I do offer Free Death Care Classes on the dying process and where a Doula would be a good fit.
Do you work as part of a collaborative or independently?
I work independently
Are you willing to work remotely?
I am more than happy to travel (travel expenses added to package costs, and are not included in the prices given) and/or work remotely with families when necessary.
