christian end-of-life doula training & certification

There is a complete scope of practice for end-of-life doulas. This includes companionship, end-of-life care planning (including vigils), holistic comfort care (non-medical), creating legacy projects, engaging the family & community in support. 

Christian end-of-life doula services differ from secular services. The Biblical answer to the question, Why do we die?, separates a Christian Doula from the secular. Christian service springs forth from the good news of the gospel and the hope of resurrection.

Laurel Nicholson developed this training program after seeing the need for end-of-life care support in community following many years in parish work and subsequently training in a secular doula program. Laurel has established senior & healing ministries in her church, and she holds a B.S. in Business Administration and a Master's degree in Christian theology. 

Laurel considers her training to be the first and only Christian training. While some programs claim a connection to the Christian faith, they appear to fall short in the fundamentals of God's Word.The Death & Resurrection Doula training program upholds the message of the cross, repentance, and God's solution to the problem of death through his Son, Jesus.  Laurel's training follows the same scope of practice as secular programs, although the True Christian message is contained in every lesson. Laurel's curriculum is supported by the contributions of field professionals in nursing, theology, chaplaincy, estate law, healthcare ethics, and burial practices.

Doula practice is not a regulated field although having a certification is a good idea for safety and professionalism.  Most often, families will hire an end-of-life doula. Hospice agencies, churches, funeral homes & cemeteries, and LTC facilities are now recognizing doulas as an integral part of the team.

The Death & Resurrection Doula Training program is self-paced and can be started at anytime. The program price includes access to one weekend training event + small group mentorship. Most doulas complete their training within 6 months to 1 year. Through a Collaboration Association membership, Death & Resurrection Doulas may continue with training, cont. education, and support as long as they wish. Community Builder Mentors are formed through training and make membership a special experience!

The death positive movement is a secular philosophical movement concerned with embracing death as a natural part of life. While the movement has many positive features, Christians will quickly be disenfranchised by its New Age & progressive feel. The Death & Resurrection Doula Training is a movement within the movement. Reclaiming the Biblical truth regarding death while emphasizing the importance of being prepared.