FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

WHO ARE WE?

The Chicago Death Doula Collective is a group of volunteers who have started a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to provide education and advocacy services in Chicago.

WHAT DO WE DO?

Whether a person is facing a new terminal diagnosis, looking for support for their loved ones, or is simply looking to prepare for the future, a death doula can serve as a resource, support system, or guide. We believe that we are stronger together, and our community can help you so that you can focus on the most important things.

Our collective helps to spread awareness and demystify death through member social events, death cafes and collaborative panels to share our experiences and learn from one another.

HOW DO I BECOME A DEATH DOULA?
Our doulas come from all walks of life - some are trained and some are self-taught. There are no requirements or national certifications to be a doula and we do not specifically offer any courses. However, there are many excellent programs available online, including INELDA and NEDA, and the University of Vermont. These are only a few of many training programs out there. We strongly encourage you to do your online research to find the best fit for your interests.

If you are interested in becoming a death doula, the best advice we could offer is to start volunteering at a local hospice, hospital, or assisted living facility to determine your path forward and how you want to serve the end of life care community. We do not currently have mentorship opportunities.

HOW DO I JOIN THE COLLECTIVE?

We’d love to connect with you! https://linktr.ee/chicagodeathdoulacollective
If you offer death doula services and wish to be added to our directory,
please fill out this form:  

DO WE SCHEDULE CONSULTATIONS?
NEW CLIENTS:
The collective provides a 15-minute complimentary call to potential new clients or for educational outreach opportunities. Once the CDDC is contacted, we will reach out to you within 48 hours. This call will help us better direct you to the appropriate contact for your needs.

NEW DOULAS:
We do not provide consultation calls, mentorship opportunities, or extensive interviews to those wishing to become doulas or those new in the field due to increasing demand and time. Please reach out to doulas directly for additional support, who can provide you with their consultation fees. You can find them on our Collective page.