Do You Need a Death Doula?

Do You Need a Death Doula?

It can be hard to know if or when you might need a death doula.

I often think of it this way: death is one of life’s greatest transitions. Most people would never consider going through birth without the presence of an experienced caregiver. The same can be said for the other threshold of life — death. Having someone who has walked this path before can bring steadiness, reassurance, and guidance.

We plan our weddings for months or even years. We create registries and plan showers for babies. Yet when it comes to death — a transition every human will face — most people are left without a guide. Families often find themselves overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure of what to do next.

This is where a death doula can help.

What a Death Doula Offers

A death doula (sometimes called an end-of-life doula) provides non-medical support at the end of life. That support looks different for every family. Some doulas focus on helping with paperwork and advance care planning. Others specialize in grief support, ritual, or sitting quietly at the bedside.

Not every doula does the same things. That’s why it’s important to ask questions about what someone offers, and to find the right fit for your family.

How I Support Families and the Dying

In my work as a doula, both in Marin County- and as a travelling doula, I support both the dying and their loved ones.

• For the dying: I provide bedside presence, vigil planning, ritual, and legacy projects. I witness, I steady, and I help create spaces of comfort and peace.

• For families: I help organize communication, guide conversations with providers, prepare everyone for what is to come, and connect caregivers with trusted resources. I am a calm and steady presence — someone to talk to who has walked this path before.

I can work with you in person or virtually. And if I cannot be there myself, I will help connect you with a local doula you can trust.

Why Consider a Doula?

You may not know if you need a doula until you are in the midst of it. That’s okay. Many families reach out when they feel:

• Lost in medical information and decisions.

• Overwhelmed by the emotions of grief and worry.

• Unsure of what to expect in the days ahead.

• Exhausted from caregiving and in need of steady guidance.

  
  

A doula cannot take away the pain of losing someone you love. But we can walk beside you, bringing calm, perspective, and presence to what otherwise can feel like chaos.

Death is not something any of us should have to navigate alone.

✨ If you are wondering whether a doula is right for you or your loved one, I would be honored to talk with you. Together, we can explore what support might look like for your unique situation.