Online Doula Support
People often ask me ‘ what exactly IS a Doula?’ So I thought it was fitting to make my first blog post about my Doula work, especially what my work as an online Doula looks like. In the age of COVID 19 lockdowns one of the many lessons we learned as a society was about access. All of a sudden everything was available online which made it easily accessible for anyone with access to the internet and a computer. This also shaped the way that many professionals worked; services that were traditionally only available face to face like Psychotherapy and Doula support were now suddenly able to expand and take a new shape through the use of technology. This is something that I have integrated into my practice and that I will continue to offer so that I am able to work with clients in Berlin and Beyond. So if you have wanted to work with me but don't live in Berlin keep reading to learn more about my remote services!
What is a Doula and the benefits of having one?
A Birth Doula is a non medical professional who offers, emotional, psychological and practical support around pregnancy, birth and sometimes postpartum. As Full Spectrum Doula this means that I support birth as well as other topics in reproductive health including fertility support, loss or miscarriage, abortion as well as Transition support for Black Trans people. Part of why I decided to offer my services online so that they would be available to Black, POC, Queer and Trans parents wherever they may be. In the rest of this post I will speak primarily about online Birth Doula services but if you are interested in any of the other forms of support please contact me and we can discuss together what this can look like. I'll say how below!
If you're interested in learning more about the benefits of having a Doula check out the Doula & Yoga page on my website for links to articles saying more on this.
How does this work online?
So as an online or remote Doula, my services are essentially the same as in person, the major difference being that we would meet online via zoom or google meets. We could work together wherever you may be based in the world and during our online prenatal sessions we would solidify a birth plan, discuss pain management, comfort measures for labor and delivery. We also make space to address all of your questions and concerns and wishes surrounding labor, delivery, and newborn care. I would also support you in arranging adequate postpartum care or supporting you in finding a postpartum doula in your area. I also offer the possibility to be available to you virtually for your labor and delivery- in this way I would be able to provide you with company, guidance and support when labor were to begin. We can always discuss together how much support you feel you may need. My yoga work is also offered online so we would be able to have bother pre and postnatal 1-1 yoga classes together. A new part of my work focuses primarily on supporting perinatal mental health through the use of EMDR for clients who have experienced trauma related to birth or otherwise. If you are pregnant and interested in Doula and Mental Health support this could be a unique offer for you that would online be accessible to you online - if you are outside of Berlin
Why would I do this?
There are so many reason why someone might choose to work with a Doula online
Your favorite IG Doula does not live in your city
You live in a rural area with limited resources
You are part of a Queer family looking for inclusive and /or Queer support
Maybe you have limited mobility or time in your schedule to make space to meet a Doula in person.
You have chronic illness that makes meeting online easier
And these are just to name a few! Whether you choose to work with a Doula in person or online, the benefits are just the same.
How do I find a Doula?
If you are interested in working online with me be sure to go to the section about my ‘Doula & Yoga’ services page and book a free 30 minute introduction call. There we can get to know each other and discuss what birth support could look like for you. If you are looking for a Doula in your area, I would suggest looking for referrals by speaking to people in your network and hearing their recommendations. Maybe a more detailed blog post on this soon!
Can't wait to connect with you!