When and why did you decide to become an end-of-life doula?  

I’ve been holding space for people at the end of life—and for the loved ones who walk alongside them—since 2014. The true call to pursue this work formally came in 2019, when I accompanied a young friend in her journey with colon cancer. Supporting her through that time shaped me profoundly and led me to pursue this path as an end-of-life doula with intention and devotion. I completed the INELDA end-of-life doula training in December of 2020, started my certification in 2021, and completed it in 2024.

What is your pathway to practicing as a doula?

My practice is continually evolving. It has been shaped by ongoing education, hospice work, and yoga and somatic practices. Most importantly, my practice is shaped by time spent listening deeply to the people I walk alongside. My pathway has never been linear—it has been guided by community, curiosity, and a commitment to offering compassionate support.

What type of environment do you work in?

I currently operate my practice from my home. I work in a variety of environments, including private homes, hospice facilities, community spaces, nature, and yoga studios. I am mobile and adaptable, which allows me to support individuals, caregivers, and communities in the spaces where they feel most comfortable. My environment is always grounded in presence, calm, and compassion.

What do you do before you meet with a new client?

I always spend some time praying for guidance, protection, and presence. I get breathwork and movement in before I see or meet with a new client—non-negotiable. This helps to ground me in my body and also helps me process my internal dialogue.If their intake form is filled out from our consultation, I will review it as well. If it hasn’t been completed, I will review questions and make changes if needed. I always have my doula bag.

Can you share a short anecdote or insight that changed you?

There’s so many, it’s hard to choose one! One: In working with the bereaved, an insight that changed everything for me is how the body holds grief in ways the mind often cannot articulate. Relief, connection, and grounding can come through the physical self long before words return.

Also: At the end of life, the veil is so thin. While the physical body naturally weakens, the spiritual body often grows stronger. I’ve seen how guided visualization and compassionate presence alone can help ease fear and offer comfort in those final moments. Witnessing this deep mind-body-spirit connection has shaped both my doula practice and my belief that support at the end of life is not just physical—it is emotional, spiritual, and profoundly human.

Who has been one of your teachers or mentors?

Death is my greatest teacher, as are those I walk alongside.

Molly Lannon Kenny has been a mentor and teacher to me.

I also learned so very much from my INELDA mentor through certification, Claudette. Our time together was so valuable and I am forever grateful to her. We can learn much from those who are doing this work.

Every person we meet is our teacher.

What do you wish you had known when you started as a doula?

As doulas we are invited into moments most people will never see. Little glimpses beyond the veil. These moments sometimes feel like little gifts, or small pieces of mystery. We are entrusted to hold this all within our care.

Self-care. Have the following: A strong spiritual practice. A strong mental practice—therapist, grief support, doula support, meditation. A physical practice—move your body. It doesn’t have to be an hourlong, intense workout—move your body a little every day. Have a strong sense of self and check in often.

Do you have any words of encouragement for fellow doulas?

This work is needed, and there is value in it. Educate yourself: Never stop learning, find a mentor, learn about marketing, and start—it doesn’t have to be perfect. Get involved in your community, and ask questions.

Knowing where and what the needs are will help you build your practice.

Always carry a notebook and pen (or digital) with you—in your car, in your purse, in your pocket.

What is your dream for your practice or doulas in general?

I have many dreams for my personal practice.

For now, I hope to continue expanding community education, grief-tending events, and support gatherings. I hope to continue walking with others. I hope to continue providing caregiver support, and I look to provide support and to be a resource to those in medical and health care professions. I believe that when both the community and health care community have access to compassionate end-of-life education, the entire system of care can become more supportive.