Frequently Asked Questions

A death doula, sometimes called an end-of-life doula or death midwife, is a non-medical companion who provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals and their families during the dying process.

Hospice and palliative care are medical services that focus on comfort and symptom management. A death doula does not replace those services—we complement them by offering emotional presence, legacy projects, bedside vigils, caregiver relief, and guidance through the many non-medical aspects of dying.

Anyone facing the end of life—or their loved ones—can hire a doula. Some families bring us in early for planning and emotional support, while others reach out closer to the time of active dying.

Not at all. Many people engage doulas to explore mortality, plan for the future, or live more intentionally. Advance care planning, legacy work, and navigating grief are all part of our offerings.

Support looks different for each client. It may include:

• Sitting vigil at the bedside
• Creating calming environments with music, rituals, or guided meditation 
• Helping families understand the dying process 
• Legacy projects (letters, memory books, recordings)
• Practical planning for end-of-life wishes
• Grief and bereavement support

No. Death doulas are not medical providers. We do not prescribe medication or provide medical care. Instead, we offer emotional, spiritual, and practical support to complement the care you receive from doctors, nurses, or hospice.

No. We also support families, caregivers, and friends—helping them navigate emotions, find resources, and create meaningful rituals or goodbyes.

Many families find that hospice staff are stretched thin. A doula provides consistent, uninterrupted presence and holistic support, working alongside hospice teams to ensure you and your loved ones feel held and cared for.

Costs vary depending on the type and length of support. Some services are offered hourly, while others may be bundled into packages (planning, vigil support, or ongoing guidance). Sliding scale and pro bono work may be available in certain cases.

Currently, most insurance does not cover death doula services. Some people use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or community donations to help offset the cost.

The first step is a conversation. We’ll discuss your needs, wishes, and how I can support you. Together, we’ll create a plan that feels right for you and your family.