Becoming a Doula with Childbirth International?

[PumpkinZulu]

Hi all.

I have been having a bit of a think lately about where I am in life and where I want to be. I am dredging through my vce, this is my THIRD go at trying to complete it and I am just hating it. It jas always been my dream to be a doula and midwife. I re started my vce this year to get on track to studying midwifery at acu, and although I still want to do this, I now know I do not want to do it through vce, I'd much prefer an alternate pathway like training as a doula and gaining entry based on experience. Anywho, I've been having myself a look-see at what sort of training is out there. At first I was looking at the australian doula college, although I was put off by a few things. Firstly, the price was around 2k, which even with the payment plan is not realistic for me. Secondly, it is a set 20 week course. I then found another course from Childbirth International. After browsing their site I feel really positive about them; for one, the fees are A LOT less exxy - $600 or so. Secondly, their course is not set so I can work at my own pace. It seems like it is really extensive and comprehensive too. I was just wondering if there is anyone who has studied with them and what your experiences have been. Or, if you studied with someone else, who, and how did you find it? I'm just so excited to be (possibly) taking this step and becoming a doula!

Thanks in advance!

[PumpkinZulu]

Anyone?

[PumpkinZulu]

Lol sorry guys, I'm just gonna bump one more time and then leave it for a bit. Just very curious is all

[PumpkinZulu]

[eutra_phalia]

I'm also tossing up which course to enrol in and would love to know where other doulas have studied and their thoughts on the course?

[AngelsMum]

Hey PZ, I don't jump on very often, so it's lucky I saw your post.

I trained through CBI. I found it really great. I think it's quite comprehensive & it's brilliant that they've included Communication as a subject.

The main drawback for me, is that I prefer someone to show me hands-on techniques, rather than reading explanations. YouTube clips or such would have been helpful. I managed to network with other doulas and they showed me stuff. I also attended an Active Birth workshop for the hands-on experience & it cost more than half of what CBI cost. I found that I already knew almost all that was covered anyway.

Feel free to PM me if you'd like to know more.

[loulabelle]

Wish I could help you out but I studied with The Aus Doula College via correspondence, they give you a year if you do it that way.It is pricey, though worth it.They give so much support.

Have you looked into any of the other places, Optimum Birth or Aus college of spiritual midwifery etc.

Good luck, it's a fantastic field to be in.

Laura x

[PumpkinZulu]

Thankyou all for your responses ladies. I think I will be going with CBI, but will continue looking around and researching. Xox

[Shades]

I'm studying with CBI and a big plus for me is the unlimited time to complete it - I've just put it on hold indefinitely as life is now in the way! I'll get back to it eventually

[PumpkinZulu]

Great to know

[Doula Mumma]

I am studying with Childbirth International.
I started a bit over a year ago but having a new baby kinda put it in hold for a while.
I started my communication asignment today, and I'm looking for 2 women to support through labor.
I am finding the course really easy even though it covers alot.
If you want to know anything just give me a yell,

Cheers
Raquel

[sanpi1312]

Hi all
I am also looking into becoming a Doula. I am in Safety Bay in WA and would love if some other Doulas could contact me so I could maybe meet with them and discuss courses or where they would recomend doing courses.
Thanks Sandra

[Tinkelbell]

Hi,

i just joined this forum.
I have studied intensively (!) with CBI for the last ? four years. I did the labor and pp doula courses and am currently finishing the CBE one with them. It is not an easy course but it's do-able if you set your mind to it. I learned a great deal and keep going back to my books when something pops up that I need help with. Great stuff!
Tinks

[Kat]

I am also wanting to start my doula training. CBI was recommended to me by a super wonderful lay midwife who I have the utmost respect for, which goes a long way in my book.

I've read through their material and it looks like an excellent course. I can see how there may not be 'hands on' but I suppose, thats what your two births are about, putting what you have learnt, and what you are into practice.

Has anyone else started the CBI course?

[TeniBear]

I'm thinking of doing this too... Will come back and update once I make my own mind up lol

[PumpkinZulu]

I almost have enough saved to do it

[tracy13]

i have just completed my course with optimum birth. it was great as i also was able to take my time..it took me just over 18months as i unexpectantly fell pregnant with number 5...
good luck with yuour study..