*****Doula Training FAQs*****

Do I need any healthcare experience?

No experience is required, only being 18 years of age or older. You’ll have to complete the required reading and get your Blood Borne Pathogens certification online from The American Red Cross. The training is 3 days, 18 hours total and you’ll leave certified!

What is the required reading?

Required Reading BEFORE class:

The Birthing Partner by Penny Simkin (Only the orange pages)

Doula Workbook (Sent once balance has been paid)

**We will discuss during training.** 

Additional Requirements BEFORE class: 

Create a resource list of AT LEAST two of each local providers:

Chiropractors, Lactation Consultant, Massage Therapist, Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga classes, Mental Health Care Providers, Breastfeeding Support Groups, Acupuncturist, Pelvic Floor Therapist. 

Bloodborne Pathogens Training, American Red Cross has an online option.

I’m located in a different state. Can I still attend?

Absolutely! The certification is valid in all states!

How much is the program?

The price is $799 and includes two workbooks, a yearly planner, notepad and pen. You’'ll also be added to our Doula Directory!

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! Half down will reserve your seat and you can pay the remainder however you want as long as it’s paid two weeks before class starts. If you decide to move forward, just contact us and we’ll invoice you for the deposit. You’ll receive your workbooks via mail once the balance is paid.

Do you offer virtual class?

Yes! Virtual classes are provided several times per year. Click the “Book Now” tab to see the upcoming schedule.

What is your refund policy?

Refunds will ONLY be available if registration is canceled at least 14 days before the training date. There will be no refunds issued after the 14 day window. Participants who can’t attend may transfer their payment to a future class. You will have one year from original training date to attend the new workshop or all fees will be forfeited.  

If I can't attend the workshop I registered for, can I attend a different workshop date?

Yes.  As long as you attend within one year, you are welcome to transfer your registration to another workshop date.  

Is The Doula Academy affiliated with any agency?

No. We are an independent certification agency. Our focus is providing a seamless training experience that aligns with traditional training methods. We don’t require certification births, etc. Becoming a Certified Doula shouldn’t be complicated. If you’re looking for continuing education, it would be up to that organization if they accept any specific courses.

*****Bengkung Belly Binding Training FAQs*****

What is Bengkung Belly Binding?

Bengkung belly binding is the art of wrapping a postpartum women's belly for physical support and to help the recovery process after childbirth. This belly binding technique uses a long strip of cloth to wrap around the abdomen from the hips to the ribcage. Women are traditionally wrapped as soon after birth as possible, ideally on day five and then worn for 40 days or longer as needed. The Bengkung belly binding technique is rooted in Malaysian culture however various countries and cultures around the world use a form of belly binding to help support the healing process.

How much is the program?

The price is $499. Cloth Belly Bind included! You’'ll also be added to our Belly Binder Directory!

Required Reading:

Seven Sisters for Seven Days by Michelle Peterson.

Zuo Yuezi - An American Mother’s Guide to Chinese Postpartum Recovery by Guang Ming Whitley. 

**We will discuss during training.** 

Required Coursework: Send a one page report to this email explaining the benefits and history of the Bengkung Belly Bind.

What is your refund policy?

Refunds will ONLY be available if registration is canceled at least 14 days before the training date. There will be no refunds issued after the 14 day window. Participants who can’t attend may transfer their payment to a future class. You will have one year from original training date to attend the new workshop or all fees will be forfeited.  

If I can't attend the workshop I registered for, can I attend a different workshop date?

Yes.  As long as you attend within one year, you are welcome to transfer your registration to another workshop date.