Embracing Empowerment: Journey to Becoming a Doula
My Story
In April of 2023 I had my first baby boy. I had planned a natural, unmedicated hospital birth however ended up needing an emergency cesarean section. Unfortunately the cesarean section was out of anyone's control and nothing I did could have changed the outcome. This ended up being a traumatic experience for me and I had a lot to overcome after. While it was a traumatic experience I had an AMAZING care team. I could not have asked for better treatment from any of my providers or nurses, they were all simply amazing. I had a few friends and family members after and I loved chatting about pregnancy and birth with them. Which is when I realized everyone should have a phenomenal care team and I love talking about birth, I should become a doula. After lots of research, studying and reading I took a leap of faith and signed up for a training course and formed my LLC.
First Steps
Everyone will have a different way of starting their business based on where you live and your goal. Do you want to accept insurance? What qualifications are required in your state? Regardless of where you live there are some first steps you need to take. First off you need to take a certification course. Even if you know all about pregnancy and birth, I recommend taking a course to sharpen your skills. Do your research into different courses and find one that aligns with your goals best. Next you will want to form an LLC. Forming an LLC has many benefits, you will want to research in your state the process for this.
Next Steps
Next you will want to do some basic tasks such as opening a business bank account and opening a business email. A business bank account can be helpful for separating business expenses and revenue from your personal. When you go to open your business email, consider if you want a website and what your domain will be. You can connect these things so you don’t have as many accounts and it will become easier for potential clients to remember who you are.
Example:
OR
Tayler@embracingbeginnings.com
It just flows easier and is easier to remember who I am and what I do. Some other things you will need to consider are social media accounts and liability insurance. These needs will vary for everyone so just remember to consider them when you are getting started.
My Training
I personally chose the Birthworker Academy for my training. I felt Kyleigh’s view of autonomous birth was what aligned best with my goals. She also teaches phenomenal business programs and has many different offers available. I still am obsessed with her programs after I have completed them. Her style of teaching was easy to understand and I knew I always had support from her, her team and community when I needed it. This was no 2-day training and tossed to the wolves after. This was a comprehensive and supportive training program.
Affiliate Link
Linked below you will find my affiliate link to birthworker academy. And before you think it…. No, I am not just sharing this for a commission. You have to personally apply for the affiliate program. I would not spend the time promoting something I did not truly believe in because that’s just not who I am.
Link: https://embracingbeginnings--theautonomymommy.thrivecart.com/academy/
Wrap Up
If you have any questions or concerns, I am happy to help. If you are considering becoming a doula and want to know more, please reach out!
*This page contains commissionable affiliate links*