Frequently Asked Questions

According to Dictionary.com the definition of doula is: "A professional who provides support and assistance to individuals or families, especially during a medical or emotional crisis. Death Doulas offer comfort and companionship to dying patients."

Similar to a birthing doula, a death doula provides physical comfort, mental and emotional support without judgement. A death doula is someone you can trust to put your interests first.   

Many questions arise, and also concerns, fears and other emotions, and I am here to help with all of that. That's what I'm trained to do, and get pleasure out of knowing that you will pass with your dignity and love, reflecting your personality.

Hospice, in general, will keep you as a patient for no more than six months, perhaps  longer if you are actively declining. They usually will provide a nurse to come once a week to do a check up. Hospice provides a doctor and clergy as needed. They also have their own facilities where you can pass if you choose. They provide literature to the family of the patient of the signs to look for in the days as the end is nearing.

As a certified Death Doula I can do much more. I can be there for many years, from your first diagnosis to your last breath. I can come once a week and just chat as a friend, and I can come more often as desired. I can enrich the dying experience for you and your loved ones. I'm a trained professional who provides assistance and guidance with holistic services. I can help with the many difficult and complex emotions while navigating the signs and symptoms of the dying process. I'll be part of YOUR team, which also might include a caregiver, home nurse, social workers, hospice, clergy, and of course your family and friends. All of us together are there for you to help facilitate a good, easy and peaceful death. Death doulas are part of the Death Positive movement, a social and philosophical movement that encourages people to speak openly about death, dying, and everything in between.

I can come to you anywhere, your hospital room, retirement facility or your home.  I'll come for an initial complimentary interview, then when you hire me, I can come as often as once a week or more if desired. If you're able and interested I can change things up and take you to the park or out for coffee.  We can do ordinary things like watch TV together, talk about current events or our favorite movies. I can also teach you breathing and relaxation techniques, meditation, and other teaching aids to help take your mind off your thoughts of the end. I can help you make out your DNR's and also, if you wish, work on a journal of your life that you can leave behind. So many things I can do, just ask and I'll let you know if I can do that or not. It's all up to you and your comfort level.  I'm here to help you make your last days as comfortable, relaxed, positive and meaningful as I can.

You can hire me by the hour. My current rate is $50/hour. Please contact me with any questions you might have, or to schedule our first complimentary visit.  Just click here and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

That is not part of my main services, but I can help if needed.  

I can help the dying, and family and friends.  I can be there as early as the first diagnosis, and all the way through the end of the mourning period.  

Death is very hard on the family/friend who is losing or has lost a loved one.  I have great books, poems, and other coping techniques for you to do on your own, plus there's my time directly with you, all these tools combined will help. Everyone mourns differently, and that is perfectly normal. Keep in mind that your loved one wouldn't want you to stop working, going to family gatherings, or just living out your normal daily routine. Mourning can be a slow process, so be patient and listen to your heart and your body.