The Calgary Doula Association

Calgary Doula Association Qualifications

Members of the CDA follow the certification process of Doulas of North America International, or DONA (www.dona.org) and agree to their Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. They have attended a rigorous in-house training session led by DONA trainers. To obtain their certification, doulas must then complete a multifaceted list of requirements. Those Doulas who have met the criteria are listed on the CDA referral line.

A doula in training has a maximum of two years, from the time her certification package is purchased, to complete all requirements and submit them to DONA International. 

 

DONA Certified Birth Doula Requirements :

  • Complete an outlined home study regimen.
  • Attend a series of prenatal classes.
  • Attend a workshop run by a DONA approved doula trainer.
  • Complete a breastfeeding education class.
  • Complete a practicum during which the doula attends births as a doula in training, and is evaluated by the parents, doctors, and nurses at each birth.
  • Submit a certification package with proof of all of the above, along with study work completed to DONA International for review by the DONA certification committee.

 

DONA Certified Postpartum Doula Requirements:

  • Complete an outlined home study regimen.
  • Attend a workshop run by a DONA approved doula trainer.
  • Complete a breastfeeding education class.
  • Complete a practicum during which the doula supports new families as a doula in training, and is evaluated by the parents.
  • Have a current Adult and Infant CPR certificate
  • Submit a certification package with proof of all of the above, along with study work completed to DONA International for review by the DONA certification committee.