Advice for a soon to be Doula?

[kimberblue]

Hi girls. I am enrolled to attend Seattle Midwifery in late September, and my first client is due the first weekend of October. So I have a steep learning curve ahead of me, and I would love your wisdom on your experiences.

I'm interested in advice on what I can do to get the most out of my class (or what you did/wish you had done to absorb the most out of your learning), what you think I can do in the next few weeks (besides reading a lot and researching) to prep (like getting my doula bag together, putting together my contract etc), and any other bits of info/help you can send my way. I don't really know what kinds of questions/advice to ask for or what I am missing out on, since I am still a newbie and this is all still in process.

I'm really excited but nervous too, and I value any responses. Thanks!!

**Sorry Mods if this is in the wrong forum. Wasn't sure where to put my question to get the most attention. Feel free to move it if necessary. Thanks!**

[IslandDoula]

Congratulations!

One thing that has helped me feel prepared is this site. Really take time to read older posts and you will learn so much.
Talk to the doulas here; they are a wealth of information, and all so kind.

I hope you enjoy your training!

[vdoula]

Yeah for you!!!

I think you are doing all the right stuff! I would also get emergency childcare and a potential back up lined up for your upcoming client & furture clients... maybe another mom from your doula tranining class.

[amymaew]

Definitely sort out childcare. That's the most difficult part of being a doula for me! What if your client calls at 2am - do you have someone available? Or labors for 40 hours? Do you have a plan for that? Good luck

[SamiNoodle]

Hey Kimberly! I went to SMS to get my training. It is an excellent course!