A doula promotes the general health and well-being of persons and their families. The Doula Association of Alberta members understand that they are acting as representatives of the doula profession and that their actions reflect the profession as a whole. The conduct of individual doulas can have an impact on their local community. 

​

Respect
Members will maintain high standards of personal and professional conduct in their role as a support person, both in person and in online spaces. This includes interactions with colleagues, clients, healthcare providers, other practitioners, and the general public. Discrimination, prejudice, racism, harassment, or harmful conduct of any kind will not be tolerated, whether expressed in direct care, public settings, or digital platforms.

​

Excellence

Members will strive to remain proficient in the current professional practices for Alberta, be up-to-date on evidence-based performance functions, and continue to educate themselves about client-directed support.  Members will maintain awareness about how their affiliation and conduct with related organizations, institutions, and other support persons can benefit the development and competence of our profession as a whole.

 

Inclusivity and Integrity 

Members will act in accordance with the highest standard of professional inclusivity and integrity.  Doula Association of Alberta members will work together to create a safe and trusted space for the development of strategic priorities related to its professional goals.

 

Confidentiality and Privacy

Members will respect the privacy of clients and colleagues, holding in confidence all information obtained in the course of professional service and/or interactions. This includes obtaining written permission to share personal details, photos, and back up coverage requests. This is inclusive of all media options and/or platforms.

 

Obligation to Serve

Members will  assist each client seeking support, either by providing services or by making appropriate referrals. Members recognize that there may be circumstances where they cannot act in a professional support capacity and, as such, will work with the client to find support options that fit the individual  needs of that client. 

 

Fees & Contracts

Members will clearly state their fees to the client, and describe the services provided, terms of payment, and refund policies. Members are encouraged to discuss and agree upon business contracts with their clients and will be expected to adhere in good faith to these agreements. Written contracts are encouraged for any professional support persons representing the Doula Association of Alberta, even for pro bono or charitable support.

 

Respect, Fairness, and Courtesy

Members will relate to colleagues with professionalism and full consideration, regardless of affiliation, experience, or training. This applies to both in-person interactions and online communication, including social media, messaging platforms, and professional forums.

​

This includes, but is not limited to, respecting the body and mind of all individuals, maintaining ethical business practices, honoring the work and materials of others, fostering collaborative relationships, and using respectful, inclusive language at all times.

​

Recognizing that clinical care belongs to the healthcare provider, members will offer support within the doula’s scope of practice, making suggestions based on their knowledge of the client’s preferences, values, and discussed plans.

​

Training

The Doula Association of Alberta recognizes the wide range of training, certification, lived experience, and pathways that members may bring to their practice. Members are required to meet the following minimum requirements related to professional training:

An approved training course, with a minimum of 16 instructional hours, from an approved trainer or training organization.

A minimum of 10 instructional hours of continuing education each year (online or in person). Continuing education may include educational series, workshops, webinars, conferences, mentoring, or other applicable learning opportunities related to doula practice. Topics may include areas such as pregnancy and birth, postpartum care, infant feeding, fertility, reproductive experiences, loss and bereavement, end-of-life care, family support, cultural care, advocacy, communication, trauma-informed practice, business development, or other relevant areas of professional development.

OR

Indigenous or Cultural Doula, Birthworker, Deathworker, or Community Care Worker
(Indigenous status and/or supporting documentation required, where applicable.)

 

Note: For interested applicants who are unable to access the above requirements, membership exceptions will be considered on a case by case basis.