How to choose a death doula: questions to ask

Know roughly how soon you need someone, where your loved one is (home, hospice facility, hospital), and whether there’s a hospice team involved. If your person has strong faith, cultural or language needs, say so up front.

Where did you train, and how many families have you supported?

Are you available for overnight vigils, and what happens if the vigil lasts several days? Do you have a backup doula?

What is included in your fee, and do you offer a sliding scale?

Do you carry professional liability insurance? Have you had a background check?

How do you work with hospice nurses?

Have you supported families in our situation: dementia, a young person, medical aid in dying, a home funeral?

Credentials matter, but so does how it feels to talk to them. A good doula listens more than they speak, doesn’t push their own beliefs, and is clear about what they won’t do, such as anything medical.