Full Spectrum Doula Training Guide | Peaceful Passages
Learn how to become a certified Full Spectrum Doula. Explore certification requirements, Medi-Cal guidelines, and support for all reproductive journeys.
Full Spectrum Doula Training
Peaceful Passages Birthing Support Center
Joanne Gomez BSN, RN, CD, CCE, CLE
What is a Doula?
A trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth to help her achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.
Emotional Support
Physical Comfort
Informational Advocacy
Types of Doulas: The Full Spectrum Approach
Full Spectrum doulas offer support across the entire reproductive continuum, not just live birth. We honor all outcomes and all journeys.
Fertility & Conception
Birth & Labor
Postpartum & Newborn
Loss, Bereavement & Abortion
Scope of Practice & Boundaries
What Doulas DO
✔ Emotional & physical support<br>✔ Information & resources<br>✔ Advocacy & communication facilitation<br>✔ Non-clinical comfort measures
What We DO NOT Do
✘ Perform clinical tasks (blood pressure, fetal exams)<br>✘ Diagnose medical conditions<br>✘ Give medical advice or prescriptions<br>✘ Catch the baby (unless emergency)
CA State Guidelines (Medi-Cal)
To qualify as a Medi-Cal provider in California, doulas must meet specific Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) requirements.
Training Pathway: Completion of at least 16 hours of instruction (lactation, birth physiology, comfort measures, etc.).
Adult & Infant CPR Certification.
HIPAA Training completion.
Provider Enrollment: Apply directly via DHCS e-Form.
Peaceful Passages Certification Requirements
Our internal standards ensure you are fully prepared for the intimacy and intensity of birth support.
Attend 3 Births
Documented support experiences.
Mandatory Reading
'The Birth Partner' by Penny Simkin.
Observation
Observe one full Childbirth Education (CBE) class series.
Phase 1: Prenatal Sessions
Building the foundation for a positive birth experience.
Discussing birth preferences & writing a Birth Plan
Practicing comfort measures & breathing techniques
Addressing fears and establishing trust
Phase 2: Support at Birth
Continuous presence during active labor and delivery.
Physical Support: Massage, counter-pressure, positioning
Emotional Support: Encouragement, holding space
Team Support: Facilitating communication with medical staff
Phase 3: Postpartum
Ensuring a smooth transition into parenthood.
Immediate breastfeeding initiation & latch support
Processing the birth experience (debriefing)
Newborn care guidance & referral resources
Professionalism & Ethics
Dress Code
Clean, comfortable, and professional attire. Scrubs or business casual appropriate for hospital movement. Closed-toe shoes.
Code of Ethics
Strict adherence to HIPAA regulations. Client confidentiality is paramount. Respect for the care team and hospital policies.
Begin Your Journey
Training Registration Open Now
Joanne Gomez | Peaceful Passages
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