The International End-of-Life Doula Association (INELDA) defines an end-of-life doula as someone who “accompanies, educates, and advocates for those who are planning for death, diagnosed with a terminal illness, or facing imminent death, and their circle of care.” The services a doula provides vary, but the role is always non-medical. A doula’s value is centered on emotional and practical support.

An end-of-life doula’s services complement and supplement hospice services. Hospice primarily focuses on medical care and pain management. Doulas do not provide any medical services. Hospice services are typically available after someone receives a prognosis of six months or less. A doula may be brought in at any time. Doulas coordinate among hospice, medical providers, funeral homes, and others, to ease administrative burden.

You will benefit from engaging a doula at any point in your life! I am prepared to support you when you are in good health, at the time of receiving a terminal diagnosis, and when death is fast approaching. All adults should consider engaging a doula to assist with planning for the uncertain timing of illness and death that we all must navigate.

I offer in-person services in the Richmond, Virginia area, and in limited circumstances, in the Washington, DC area. Where possible, depending on the type of service, I provide services remotely via video and phone call to anyone in the United States.

Unfortunately, I am not aware of any insurance plans that currently cover end-of-life doula services in the United States. Tell your medical providers and insurers you want this option and let’s advocate together to make these important services affordable for everyone!

I accept most electronic payment methods, including via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, and ApplePay. I do not accept cash or checks at this time.