Role and Scope of End of Life Doulas

by Lindsey Warren of Journey With Compassion LLC

There is not a one-sized fits all description of a death doula. We each have our own specialities and it is good to look for one that you feel like is a good fit for you. In general though, end-of-life doulas can:

• Accept that death and dying are normal, expected, difficult parts of life.

• Have a foundational knowledge of the physiology of death, symptoms associated with terminal illnesses, and techniques for alleviating suffering.

• Provide non-medical, nonjudgmental emotional/spiritual support and soothing physical comfort measures.

• Cultivate inner calm and peacefulness, even in the face of chaos and intensity.

• Promote informed consent for each client.

• Help foster and encourage communication between the client and their medical team.

• Assist clients with living their days to the fullest - developing wishes for care together, arranging visits, and encouraging the preservation of energy for what is most important.

• Support a client with the purposeful work of life reflections, storytelling, and legacy projects to help foster meaning-making.

• Trust in the inherent wisdom of each person to decide and discover their own best path.

• Companion rather than treat.

• Provide education and resources as needed and wanted.

• Empower and encourage a client’s friends and family members to operate within their comfort zones and limits.

• Feel comfortable sitting vigil and respectfully assisting in after death care as directed by a client’s family.

• Some doulas will provide a continued presence, when requested, during the initial grieving period.

  
  

I try to offer all of the above, and in addition, I also love to offer Reiki, music and herbal supports to clients that request it for comfort. Check out my Services page for a deeper picture of what I have to offer, and be in touch if you have questions or would like a free consult.