Certified End of Life Doulas and End of Life Care Specialists
Frequently Asked Questions About End of Life Doula, Death Doula, and more
What is a Death Doula?
A Death Doula, also known as an End of Life Doula or Death Midwife, is a non-medical professional who provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals and their families as they navigate the dying process.
The primary goal of a Death Doula is to support families in a way that reduces the stress, anxiety, fear, and confusion surrounding the end of life process. At Crossover Doula Services, we succeed by collaborating with the medical team to ensure as much physical comfort possible, while addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of the patient and their loved ones.
What is the difference between a hospice nurse and a Death Doula?
Time and roles. The hospice nurse is the medical manager of the patient with limited time at the bedside. The Doula is a non-medical professional who can act as the eyes and ears of the hospice team, reporting any changes in the patient’s condition so the hospice nurse can assess and update the care plan for maximum daily comfort of the patient. The Death Doula can be with the patient and family as much as is needed. The Doula has no time limitations unlike the hospice team.
When should I consider hiring a Death Doula?
You can consider hiring a death doula at any stage of a life-limiting illness or when facing end-of-life concerns. However, we do recommend hiring a Death Doula sooner in the process rather than waiting until the very end. This way the Death Doula will have more time to help guide the family through the end of life process, making the journey less stressful and more meaningful.
We recommend hiring a Death Doula if you answer ‘yes’ to any of the following questions:
1. Are you the primary caregiver for a loved-one?
2. Are you facing end of life yourself and are worried about how your loved ones will handle losing you?
3. Does death scare you? Does the whole situation feel like more than you can handle?
4. Are you taking care of a loved-one facing end of life and you aren’t sure if you are doing all the right things for them?
5. Are you overwhelmed? Do you have questions about how to plan a funeral/memorial service and what your options are?
6. Are you a caregiver who is exhausted from caring for your loved one?
7. Do you think your own physical or mental health is suffering because you are so busy taking care of your dying loved-one?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, please reach out to us for support. You should not have to do this alone.
How do I prepare for the end-of-life journey with a Death Doula?
Your doula will guide you through the preparation process, which may include discussing advance care planning, creating an end-of-life care plan, and addressing emotional and spiritual needs.
What should I expect during the initial consultation with a Death Doula?
The initial consultation is an opportunity to discuss your needs, concerns, and expectations. It’s a chance to get to know the doula and determine if they are the right fit for your situation.
Can and End of Life Doula help make end of life arrangements for me?
Yes, a doula has a “scope of practice” that includes everything from the time of terminal diagnosis to helping patients and families as the illness progresses, to the vigil, time of death, after life care, understanding and honoring grief and finally recover of life after loss.
What services and support will hospice provide for me after my loved one has died?
Most hospice teams leave a case after the patient has died. Many times, families may feel this as another loss. Hospice does offer bereavement services for up to a year or 15 months in most states. This is usually initiated by a call from a volunteer and the living family member is told about monthly support groups that they may attend. The original hospice team that worked with the family is not part of the service.
An End of Life Doula has the ability to continue working with a family even after their loved on has passed. The End of Life Doula has no time constraints and will continue to offer services for as long as the family needs the support.
Can a End of Life Doula give any medication?
NO – End of Life Doulas never give any medication whether prescription or over the counter.
Does Hospice Approve of End of Life Doulas?
YES – The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) is the membership organization for all the hospices in the US. They have just put together The End of Life Doula Council to be able to share with Hospices and families how the Professional End of Life Doula can assist and complete the hospice team to fill in “the gaps in care” and allow for the best end of life experience for both the patient and their loved ones.
Does insurance cover the services of a Death Doula?
We do not currently accept insurance for our services; however, we do welcome a wide range of private payment options. Please feel free to reach out to discuss our payment methods and find the one that best suits your needs.
Are there any national organizations that regulate the standards and scope of practice for the End of Life Doula Profession?
YES – The National End of Life Doula Alliance (NEDA) has set a national practicum with core competencies for the practice of professional End of Life Doulas that pass the assessment receive the NEDA National Credential and can become members of the national organization.
Do death doulas have specific training or certification?
Yes – We obtained training through Doulagivers Institue. We are certified as an End of Life Doula as well as a Certified End of Life Care Consultant.
Do you provide services for families and loved ones as well?
Yes, death doulas often offer support to family members and loved ones, helping them understand the process, navigate grief, and communicate with the person who is dying.
Can I contact a Death Doula in advance to plan for my own end-of-life care?
Absolutely. Many individuals choose to work with a death doula in advance to ensure their wishes are known and respected when the time comes.