DOULA TRAINING COURSES

Birth for Humankind are now offering Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training and Postnatal Doula Training. We have developed these courses to be foundational, in that they will provide you with information that will underpin your developing doula knowledge. You will build on this knowledge as you progress and develop areas of interest. Our courses are culturally sensitive, with principles of trauma-informed practice embedded throughout.

If you are from an organisation and would like to discuss custom training or bespoke group training please contact us education@birthforhumankind.org

Scholarships are available to those from culturally diverse backgrounds who speak a language other than English [as well as being fluent in English] or those who are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Contact education@birthforhumankind.org for more information.

 

CULTURALLY SENSITIVE
TRAUMA INFORMED
EVIDENCE-BASED

 

A doula is a highly skilled  companion who provides practical and emotional support during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.


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Research shows that continuous care throughout pregnancy from a known, trusted support person - such as a doula - contributes to improved birth and early parenting outcomes and experiences.

By enrolling in Birth for Humankind's Doula Training, you are proactively improving access to equitable maternal care for all women and birthing people.

Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training

After completing our Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training, you should be able to demonstrate:

  • an understanding of the public health system and maternity services navigation
  • an understanding of the different models of care and health care providers involved in the care
  • developing skills and knowledge required to support women and birthing people through pregnancy, labour and birth, and the early postnatal period
  • an ability to effectively evaluate evidence-based related research
  • an understanding of how your practice will contribute to health equity and community-based doula support, which responds to, and respects the cultural and/or social needs of women and birthing people
  • development of a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive practice via evidence-based research
  • the benefit of the value of lived experience, peer learning and knowledge of our experienced team
  • a preparedness to work with all birthing people, including, and especially those experiencing complex and systemic disadvantage and who encounter barriers when accessing the health system
  • your own developing philosophy and approach to doula work to build your own unique practice 
  • a willingness to volunteer as a doula  with Birth for Humankind (if you choose this enrolment option - see below)
  • knowledge related to developing your own private doula business (should you choose to)

Postnatal Doula Training

After completing our Postnatal Doula Training, you should be able to demonstrate:

  • an understanding of the physiological transition after the birth for the mother/birthing person
  • a basic understanding of the transition to extrauterine life for the baby
  • an understanding of the potential experiences for the mother/birthing person and baby in the postnatal period
  • an understanding of the strategies for supporting a person during early postnatal period
  • an understanding of the importance of identifying, working collaboratively and communicating effectively with key health care providers
  • knowledge of key points of postnatal education and the ability to share that with the childbearing person to support informed decision making
  • the development of a comprehensive resource list of community supports
  • an ability to effectively evaluate evidence-based postnatal related research
  • an understanding of how your practice will contribute to health equity and community-based doula support, which responds to, and respects the cultural and/or social needs of women and birthing people
  • an understanding of the importance of providing trauma-informed, culturally-safe care to clients
  • the ability and willingness to work with all new parents, including, and especially those experiencing complex and systemic disadvantage and who encounter barriers when accessing the health system
  • your own philosophy and approach to doula work to build your own unique practice 
  • a willingness to volunteer as a doula  with Birth for Humankind (if you choose this enrolment option - see below)
  • knowledge and skills to develop your own private postnatal doula business (should you choose to)


Program Delivery

In-person Intensive [in Naarm Melbourne]

  • 6 days for Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training
  • 3 days for Bringing Baby Home: Postnatal Doula Training

OR

Self-directed Fully Online

  • Study anywhere, anytime

2025 dates now released

In-person Intensive [in Naarm Melbourne]

  • 6 days for Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training
    • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday May 5th, 6th & 7th AND 
    • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday May 19th, 20th & 21st
  • 3 days for Postnatal Doula Training
    • BRAND NEW TRAINING for 2025 
    • LAUNCH DATES now released
    • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday June 2nd, 3rd & 4th 

Our in-person training is perfect for those who like to learn by engagement and participation and are based in Naarm Melbourne. The in-person sessions give you the opportunity to connect and learn from others in the group including course facilitators.

Self-directed Fully Online

This option is suitable for those who don't live in Naarm Melbourne or are not able to attend in-person sessions or those who prefer self-directed learning. You will have the opportunity to connect and learn from others in the group including course facilitators via optional, informal, online video calls every eight (8) weeks. Our online learning option means you can complete the training online, via our self-directed online modules. You can study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. You will need a laptop or tablet and access to the internet. The course modules are the same as the in-person training. 

Duration: Ideally you would complete course within twelve months of commencing but we understand circumstances change. Lifetime access to content. 

Dates: enrol anytime

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Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training

Program Modules

  • Module 1: Introduction
    Introduction to Birth for Humankind
    Doula role & scope of practice

  • Module 2: Maternity Services in Australia
    Overview of perinatal statistics
    Exploring birth options
    Meet the care team

  • Module 3: Pregnancy
    Normal pregnancy
    Appointments
    Common discomforts of pregnancy
    Antenatal meetings & birth preferences

  • Module 4: Labour & Birth
    Stage & phases of labour & birth
    Pain in labour
    Active labour & birth techniques

  • Module 5: When Things Go Off The Path Of Normal
    Interventions
    Induction of labour
    Pharmacological pain relief
    Caesarean & breech birth

  • Module 6: After The Birth
    The Golden Hour & going home
    Newborn care & the early days
    Postnatal visits
    Community Support
  • Module 7: When Things Go Off The Path Of Normal In The Postnatal Period
    Common postnatal issues
    Perinatal mental health
    Grief & loss, unexpected outcomes

  • Module 8: Infant Feeding
    Breastfeeding
    Formula feeding

  • Module 9: Culture & Traditions
    Birth traditions
    Culturally sensitive practice

  • Module 10: Research
    Understanding birth research 101

  • Module 11: Developing Your Practice
    Trauma informed practice
    Debriefing & self-care

  • Module 12: Building Your Business
    The business of being a doulaBFHK_icon_3a

Postnatal Doula Training

Program Modules

  • Module 1: Introduction
    • Introduction to Birth for Humankind
    • Doula role & scope of practice
  • Module 2: The Woman/Birthing Person
    • Physical Changes
    • Emotional Changes
    • Feeding
    • Grief & Loss
    • Perinatal Mental Health
    • The First Few Days
  • Module 3: The Baby
    • The Newborn 
    • Growth & Development 0-3 months
    • Infant Care
    • Common Concerns

 

 

 

 

 

  • Module 4: The Postnatal Doula
    • Building Your Toolkit
    • Processing the Birth
    • Trauma Informed Practice
    • Family Violence
    • Cultural Awareness
    • Evidence Based Practice
    • Communication Skills
    • Using Interpreters
    • Debriefing & Self-Care
    • Community Supports
  • Module 5: Case Studies
  • Module 6: Your Doula Business

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Enrolment Options for in-person courses in 2025

View our Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training enrolment options below.

2025 DATES for our 6 day PREGNANCY & BIRTH: FOUNDATIONAL DOULA TRAINING

Monday May 5th, Tuesday May 6th, Wednesday May 7th AND 

Monday May 19th, Tuesday May 20th, Wednesday May 21st

This is our most popular course, perfect for those who like to learn by engagement and participation and are based in Naarm Melbourne. The in-person sessions give you the opportunity to connect and learn from others in the group including course facilitators. The course runs for three days, then a week break and return for the final three days.

After this participants will join us for our Volunteer Doula Organisational Induction Training [unless 'No Volunteer' is selected], usually within a few weeks of completing the course. The Organisational Induction Training involves a self-directed learning package, specifically related to the work of our volunteer doulas and the client groups we support. Then, you will join us for a full day of interactive learning, practising logging hours and reports, working through case studies and some practical work related to labour support and using interpreters. At the end of the day, you can select a client to be matched with and be supported by one of our experienced mentors. 

OUR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT RATES ARE LISTED BELOW FOR IN-PERSON COURSES

AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME

Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training (Volunteer + Mentor)

$1756.00


This is a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive training program, combining six (6) days in-person and online resources, worksheets and knowledge check questions.  On completion of the theoretical component of the course, you will have the unique opportunity to be matched with the three (3) clients needed to complete the practical birthing support components of doula training, as well as being guided by experienced and highly skilled mentors. 


Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training (No Mentor)

$1356.00

This is the same course but without a mentor, which would indicate that you feel confident engaging with clients, planning and preparing for meetings with clients and supporting them to navigate the maternal health system. You can follow instructions well, are organised and pro-active in connecting with clients and communicating your experiences with Doula Program Supervisors and Birth for Humankind systems [you will learn about this at the Volunteer Induction Training].


Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training (No Volunteer)

$2796.00

 

This is the same content as the other two options. However, the cost is a little higher as with this option there is no expectation that you will join our Volunteer Doula Team or receive mentoring. 

On completion of the theoretical component of the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. 

Enrolment Options for in-person courses in 2025

View our Postnatal Doula Training enrolment options below.

2025 DATES for our 3 day POSTNATAL DOULA TRAINING

Monday June 2nd, Tuesday June 3rd, Wednesday June 4th

This is our new course, perfect for those who like to learn by engagement and participation and are based in Naarm Melbourne. The in-person sessions give you the opportunity to connect and learn from others in the group including course facilitators. The course runs for three (3) days. After this, participants will join us for our Volunteer Doula Organisational Induction Training, usually within a few weeks of completing the course. The Organisational Induction Training involves a self-directed learning package, specifically related to the work of our volunteer doulas and the client groups we support. Then you will join us for a full day of interactive learning, practising logging hours and reports, working through case studies and some practical work related to labour support and using interpreters. At the end of the day, you can select a client to be matched with and be supported by one of our experienced mentors. 

OUR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT RATES ARE LISTED BELOW FOR IN-PERSON COURSES

AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME

Postnatal Doula Training (Volunteer + Mentor)

$956.00

This is a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive training program, combining three (3) days in-person and online resources, worksheets and knowledge check questions.  On completion of the theoretical component of the course, you will have the unique opportunity to be matched with the three (3) clients needed to complete the practical postnatal support components of doula training, as well as being guided by experienced and highly skilled mentors.

Postnatal Doula Training (No Mentor)

$716.00

This is the same course but without a mentor which would indicate that you feel confident engaging with clients, planning and preparing for meetings with clients and supporting them to navigate the maternal health system particularly in the post-birth setting. You can follow instructions well, are organised and pro-active in connecting with clients and communicating your experiences with Doula Program Supervisors and Birth for Humankind systems [you will learn about this at the Volunteer Induction Training].


Enrolment Options for fully online courses in 2025

View our online Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training enrolment options below.

Our online courses are suitable for those who don't live in Naarm Melbourne or are not able to attend in-person sessions or those who prefer self-directed learning. You will have the opportunity to connect and learn from others in the group including course facilitators via optional, online video calls every eight (8) weeks.

On completion of the theoretical component of the course, you are required to support three (3) clients to complete the practical birthing support components of doula training, as well as being guided by experienced and highly skilled mentors. If you are based in Naarm Melbourne you have the opportunity to be matched with our clients. If you are not based in Naarm Melbourne you can receive mentoring by phone or video when you are supporting clients you have found in your local area.

If you intend to join our Volunteer Doula Team, participants will join us for our Volunteer Doula Organisational Induction Training, these are scheduled three (3) times per year. The Organisational Induction Training involves a self-directed learning package, specifically related to the work of our volunteer doulas and the client groups we support. Then you will join us for a full day of interactive learning, practising logging hours and reports, working through case studies and some practical work related to labour support and using interpreters. 

Those not based in Naarm Melbourne are not expected to join our Volunteer Doula Team or participate in the Volunteer Organisational Induction Training [unless you are based in a regional centre that we service].

Pregnancy & Birth Foundational Doula Training - start anytime.

Postnatal Doula Training - launching soon.

You can still purchase the package and get access to the Postnatal Doula Training as soon as it is ready.

Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training Online (Volunteer + Mentor)

$1695.00

A trauma-informed, culturally sensitive training program, equivalent to our in-person course of six (6) days in-person. There are recorded presentations, online resources, worksheets and knowledge check questions.  You will receive a certificate of completion at the the end of the theoretical component. 


Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training Online (No Mentor)

$995.00

This is the same course but without a mentor which would indicate that you feel confident engaging with clients, planning and preparing for meetings with clients and supporting them to navigate the maternal health system. You can follow instructions well, are organised and pro-active in connecting with clients and communicating your experiences with Doula Program Supervisors and Birth for Humankind systems [you will learn about this at the Volunteer Induction Training].


Postnatal Doula Training Online (Volunteer + Mentor)

$895.00

A trauma-informed, culturally sensitive training program, equivalent to our in-person course of three (3) days in-person. There are recorded presentations, online resources, worksheets and knowledge check questions. 

Postnatal Doula Training Online (No Mentor)

$595.00

This is the same course but without a mentor which would indicate that you feel confident engaging with clients, planning and preparing for meetings with clients and supporting them to navigate the maternal health system. You can follow instructions well, are organised and pro-active in connecting with clients and communicating your experiences with Doula Program Supervisors and Birth for Humankind systems [you will learn about this at the Volunteer Induction Training].

 

Interested in both courses in 2025? Our BUNDLE may suit you.

We are offering our in-person Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training AND Postnatal Doula Training at a discounted rate.

2025 DATES for our 6 day PREGNANCY & BIRTH: FOUNDATIONAL DOULA TRAINING

Monday May 5th, Tuesday May 6th, Wednesday May 7th AND 

Monday May 19th, Tuesday May 20th, Wednesday May 21st

AND

our 3 day POSTNATAL DOULA TRAINING

Monday June 2nd, Tuesday June 3rd, Wednesday June 4th

This BUNDLE is perfect for those wanting to develop skills in the childbearing continuum - for pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. A total of nine (9) days, this option is suited to those who like to learn by engagement and participation and are based in Naarm Melbourne. The in-person sessions give you the opportunity to connect and learn from others in the group including course facilitators.

After completion of the theoretical content, you will join us for our Volunteer Doula Organisational Induction Training, usually within a few weeks of completing the course. The Organisational Induction Training involves a self-directed learning package, specifically related to the work of our volunteer doulas and the client groups we support. Then, you will join us for a full day of interactive learning, practising logging hours and reports, working through case studies and some practical work related to labour support and using interpreters.

OUR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT RATE IS LISTED BELOW FOR IN-PERSON COURSES

AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME

BUNDLE Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training & Postnatal Doula Training (Volunteer + Mentor)

$2396.00

The Pregnancy & Birth: Foundational Doula Training Course runs for a total of six (6) days - three days, then a week break and return for the final three days. After this participants will join the Postnatal Doula Training which runs over three (3) days. A total of nine (9) days.

Our courses are trauma-informed & culturally sensitive training programs.