This is course 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, online video calls every eight (8) weeks. 

The option to not have a mentor 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].

This is 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.  On completion of the theoretical component of the course, you are required to support three (3) clients to complete the practical postnatal support components of doula training. You will receive a certificate of completion at the the end of the theoretical component. Then, when you have completed support of three clients and then completed the practical component you will receive a Course Completion Certificate. 

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. At the end of the day, if based in Naarm Melbourne you can select a client to be matched with.