WHO ARE WE?

The Chicago Death Doula Collective is a group of death doulas and deathcare workers along with volunteers who service the Chicagoland area and share information about death education in Chicago.

WHAT DO WE DO?
Whether a person is facing a new terminal diagnosis, looking for support for their loved ones, or is simply looking to prepare for the future, a death doula can serve as a resource, support system, or guide. We believe that we are stronger together, and our community can help you so that you can focus on the most important things.

Our collective also helps spread awareness and demystify death through social events, death cafes and collaborative panels to share our experiences and learn from one another.

HOW DO I BECOME A DEATH DOULA?
Our doulas come from all walks of life - some are trained and some are self-taught. There are no requirements or national certifications to be a doula and we do not specifically offer any courses. However, there are many excellent programs available online, including INELDA, Going with Grace, NEDA, Sacred Passages, Lifespan Doulas, and the University of Vermont to name a few. We strongly encourage you to do your online research to find the best fit for your interests.

If you are interested in becoming a death doula, the best advice we could offer is to start volunteering at a local hospice, hospital, or assisted living facility to determine your path forward and how you want to serve the end-of-life care community. Some of our doulas offer mentorship opportunities annually; please subscribe to our CDDC NEWSLETTER to be informed of educational events, mentorship or workshop opportunities.

HOW DO I JOIN THE COLLECTIVE DIRECTORY?

If you offer death doula or deathcare services and wish to be added to our directory, please fill out this form:  

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A DEATH DOULA CONSULTATION?
NEW CLIENTS:
Our Death Doulas provide non-medical care, logistical support, and other guidance before, during, and after death. Each death doula brings their own wisdom, education, and lived experiences to their work. You are welcome to explore our Directory and read the individual profiles listed and areas they service. It is best to interview a doula to see what their specialty is and make sure they fit your needs. You can reach out to them individually at their contact information listed in their bios which can be found on our website:

Directory — Chicago Death Doula Collective

Every culture has different rituals and beliefs surrounding death. As a collective, we advocate for dignity, autonomy, love, and support at the end of life. We believe end of life care should be accessible and inclusive for all people.

NEW DOULAS:
Throughout the year CDDC offers mentorship opportunities to those wishing to become doulas or those new in the field. You can subscribe to our CDDC NEWSLETTER and be informed of these opportunities, or you are welcome to reach out directly to our doulas, if a specific mentor is of interest to you. Please find them on our Directory page.