Very simply, an end of life doula offers support at a time when many of us most need support, at our own time of transition through dying or at a time when a loved one is crossing that threshold. This support can come in many forms - emotional, educational, spiritual, practical - and to many different degrees. Death doulas offer practical support in terms of providing respite to caregivers, sitting vigil at the bedside and taking care of simple household chores. Educational support can include facilitating conversations among family members about the death and dying process, clarifying end of life wishes and advanced care directives and collaborating with the dying person in creating a legacy project or completing a life story project. Spiritual support can be as simple as encouraging conversations about one's faith journey and sources of spiritual strength, or guiding meditations or imagery sessions during the end stages of life. Oftentimes, end of life doulas can provide a non-anxious presence in the home during what can often feel like a turbulent journey and transition for loved ones of the dying person. Doulas can open the door to uncovering greater meaning, purpose and peace during and through the end of life process.

End of life doulas can be present throughout the dying process to whatever extent the dying person and family feel is necessary. We see ourselves as companions to our clients and their families, and can ultimately serve to demystify the dying process. We often work as a complement to hospice services, and firmly believe that the more support available around the dying process, the better.