Calgary Doula Association Qualifications

Members have attended a rigorous in-house training session led by DONA and CAPPA 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.


DONA International:
The World’s Premier Doula Organization 

DONA International is the oldest, largest and most respected doula association in the world. The founders are among the foremost experts on doula care, and DONA International certification is a widely respected measure of quality and professionalism. DONA International is an international, non-profit organization of doulas that strives to have every doula trained and educated to provide the highest quality and standards for birth and or postpartum support to birthing women and their families. To that end, it promotes continuing education for doulas and provides a strong communication link among doulas and between doulas, families and the medical birthing community.

Birthing people across the globe appreciate and value the experience of having a doula – a knowledgeable, experienced companion – who stays with them through labour, birth and beyond. Birth doulas offer emotional support, encouragement and wisdom throughout labour and birth. Postpartum doulas support families through the transformation that a new baby brings.

With more than 7000 birth and postpartum doula members and growing, DONA International is the largest doula association in the world. DONA International supports doulas by providing quality training and meaningful certification. The organization serves mothers and families by providing access to information and research about doulas, childbirth and the postpartum experience. 

DONA International certification sets the bar for doula education and professional development. It indicates to families that a doula has achieved a high level of training and professionalism.
Borrowed with permission from DONA International