Frequently Asked Questions

I’m an end-of-life doula, which means I provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals and their loved ones during the final stages of life. My role is to walk alongside you on this journey, helping to make the process more manageable and meaningful with compassion and care.

No, there is no specific criteria required to collaborate with an end-of-life doula. Starting the process early rather than waiting for later stages is recommended. Whether you or someone you love has received a life-limiting or "terminal" diagnosis, even if the prognosis spans years, we encourage you to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin discussions and planning. Individuals without known diagnoses also find tremendous value in working with end-of-life doulas, creating advance directives, facilitating challenging conversations, and managing death anxiety. Don't hesitate to reach out, and let's embark on this journey together.

While hospice focuses on medical care and pain management, my role as an end-of-life doula is non-medical. I provide emotional guidance, practical assistance, comfort, and companionship—offering personal support that complements hospice care.

Yes – doulas are supplementary and complementary support. Anyone who has had a loved one in hospice knows that the number of hours of care is often limited due to staffing, budgeting, and needs assessment. Doulas frequently work alongside hospice.

I collaborate with hospice and palliative care teams and other healthcare providers to ensure seamless care. I complement the medical aspects by focusing on your emotional and spiritual well-being.

It’s never too soon to start working with me. I can support you as early as a terminal diagnosis, through the progression of illness, and into the final days and moments. Having this type of support early can help you and your family navigate this time with greater peace.

My services are tailored to your needs and include emotional and spiritual support, assistance with advance care planning, legacy projects, coordination with care teams, and support for family members and caregivers.

It’s all about connection. I encourage you to seek an initial consultation to see if my approach fits you and your family. It’s so important to feel supported and comfortable with whomever you choose.

Our first meeting is an opportunity to discuss your needs, wishes, and concerns. I’ll explain my support, answer your questions, and listen to better understand how I can serve you and your family.

My fees depend on the services you need and the support you seek. During our initial consultation, we can discuss pricing and options to ensure everything fits your needs.

Most insurance plans don’t currently cover end-of-life doula services but may be able to use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Medical Savings Accounts (MSA) to cover some costs with pre-tax dollars. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider.

Yes, I do. I’m here to support families during and after the end-of-life process, helping loved ones navigate their grief and find coping strategies for this challenging time.

I understand things can change, and I’ll adapt my support to meet your evolving needs. My goal is to ensure your wishes and circumstances are always respected.

Absolutely. We carefully plan for life’s big moments—birth, weddings, and major moves—so it also makes sense to prepare for death and dying. Advance care planning ensures your wishes are honored and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones. I can assist with creating advance care directives and living wills or connect you with resources to help. If you need a different kind of support, I’m happy to refer you to someone who can help..

Yes, I do! I can help you create meaningful projects, like writing letters, recording stories, or putting together memory books so you can leave a lasting impact and cherished memories for your loved ones.

I provide emotional support, respite care, and practical help to families and caregivers, giving them the space and guidance to cope with the demands of end-of-life care.

The National End-of-Life Doula Alliance created the NEDA proficiency assessment as a way for doulas to demonstrate what they know. Achieving the NEDA proficiency badge signifies that I completed the assessment and met specific end-of-life doula core competencies and standards.

I go wherever needed, whether in your home, a facility where your loved one lives, or the hospital. I practice primarily in Pennsylvania's Montgomery, Delaware, Chester, and Bucks counties. I prefer to travel an hour or less because that keeps me more accessible.