Steps to Becoming a Gateway Doula

  • Complete Your Initial Doula Training: Complete an accredited birth doula training course (DONA, ICTC, CAPPA, etc.).

  • Application: Fill out and submit the Gateway Doula Group Application by submitting a contact inquiry on the "Application" page.

  • Register for an Orientation Night Here and the following Hospital Room Skills Night (skills night is currently being replaced by a video training due to COVID hospital restrictions). The fee for this includes the 3 hour training, your volunteer badge, and access to the program. The orientation process is offered 4 times a year and required in order to volunteer with our program.

  • Take One Advanced Training: Attend the Collaborative Practice Advanced Doula Training or the Trauma Informed Care For Birth Workers Training through Mother Tree Birth. We ask that you either attend one of these trainings within 3 months of joining Gateway Doulas or show proof that you have registered to attend an upcoming training.

  • 100% commitment: Our organization depends entirely on our volunteer doulas. You must be sure that you will be able to make a minimum 6-month commitment to working with us, and volunteer a minimum of 3 shifts per month.

  • Certification: Gateway Doulas must be actively working towards certification and attempt to complete the process within six months of starting.

  • State Registry: We are a Medical Billing Provider for the reimbursement of THW Doulas who support clients who are State Insured in Oregon. In order to qualify for this, the first step is getting on the State Registry as a Traditional Health Worker - Doula by following these steps.

  • A few of the other trainings needing for getting on the THW Registry are as follows

  • If you have questions about this process, please contact us: gatewaydoulagroup@gmail.com

Benefits of Being a Gateway Doula

  • Give back to your community

  • Shift work for doulas that works with your other life commitments and have built in backup for the clients you take on privately.

  • Be supported by a collective who are passionate about birth and providing doula services for people who would otherwise not have access to this vital care.

  • Gain experience amongst a diverse group of birthing families.

  • Opportunities to build your networking and doula skills.

  • Practical and informational support in working towards your certification and THW registry status.