I was all set to take the DONA PP Doula training this past weekend (and I registered in June), when I ended up in agony and spent the next few days all sore after one of my cysts "resolved itself". Ugh. More like exploded and bruised everything inside there. So, I didn't end up going. I'm all set to take it again in March, but I already have requests coming in for PP doula help! Some of these were hoping for a "student" PP doula, and were looking for low or no fee help. Others are willing to pay. I'm pondering just being open and letting them know I haven't done the training yet, but can still help if they're okay with it. I have two boys of my own and several friends with babes, I'm no stranger to kids. I've already attended the breastfeeding portion of the course.

I'm thinking if I stick to the basics, help with other kids, light housework, that kind of thing, if nothing else it will help me know what is working for me in my PP doula business. I know it won't count toward my certification, but if it gets me started in the business, that's still good I think!

You do not have to be certified to do PP work so, why not get some experience? Of course it does not count towards the cert but I think it is good to get your foot in the door...

I'm not yet certified and I haven't received my training stuff in the mail from BAI yet but I've started taking clients. I have done lots of reading, as well as had lots of experience. Because of that, it's generally considered "in training" and I make that clear in my contract and on my website. I also charge less then certified doulas in my area. going rate is at least $25 an hour (or more) and I charge $15 an hour.

I also ran a Thanksgiving special that really got me a lot of attention and a few clients which was buy 4 hours get 4 hours free.