Doula Profile: Jason Tifford
In college, Jason was a finance student and fraternity president, set on becoming a hedge fund manager. But when his dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer, his entire identity shattered. He was severely depressed, alone, and at his lowest point, but “by the grace of God,” he got through it. That pain taught him how much we all need connection and understanding, especially in our darkest moments. Now, his mission is to build community and ensure people know they’re not alone on their path.
Currently, he resides in Austin, Texas, where he is building The Loss Tribe, a not-for-profit community dedicated to bringing together people who have experienced loss and fostering meaningful connections. He is also the founder of A Mindful Company, which partners with large organizations to provide personalized concierge support for employees navigating loss.
Q&A with Jason
I decided to become an end-of-life doula a few years ago after volunteering at a local hospice company for several months. During my volunteering, I realized that there was training to become a doula, so I figured I may as well get trained!
What is your pathway to practicing as a doula?After losing my dad to esophageal cancer, I felt a strong call to spend time with the dying as a volunteer. Currently, I still operate as an end-of-life doula as a volunteer.
What type of environment do you work in?Mostly home or in hospice facilities, but also in my church and with friends and family.
What do you do before you meet with a new client?Before meeting with a new client, I try to pray and center myself before each visit. I find that having a specific practice can be very grounding and help remind myself that this is not about me.
Can you share a short anecdote or insight that changed you?Very early on into doing hospice visits, I realized that these visits are not about me (shocker, right?) I have found that the more I can focus on being present with how the dying person is, the better of a doula I can actually be.
Who has been one of your teachers or mentors?Claudette Peterson, a former educator from INELDA, has been incredibly patient with me and has also helped me to learn so much about what it means to be a doula. Also, educator Wilka Roig; she is an amazing example of someone who has dedicated their life to this work and has been an inspiration along the way.
What do you wish you had known when you started as a doula?To not rush the process of getting certified. I felt a strong sense of needing to get it done with. In reflecting back on it, I could have been more patient.
Do you have any words of encouragement for fellow doulas?As long as you are coming from a place of wanting to serve, your heart is in the right place. Be willing to make mistakes, and be mindful of how much time per week you are serving.
What is your vision for your practice?My dream for doulas is that they can have an easier time finding work, and that hospices, health care companies, and other establishments are more likely to partner with them in the future. I have yet to meet a doula who is not passionate about their work, and in most individuals it appears to be a calling. For that reason, I just hope that they can be supported.