Amy Wood - End of Life Doula Care

Although the roles of Birth and EOL Doulas are not regulated at this time,  I was trained as an End of Life Doula through Douglas College and am a member of the End of Life Doula Association of Canada (EOLDAC). The association is committed to self-regulating all of its registered member doulas.  This regulation is done through background and education checks, practical experience requirements, continuing education requirements, as well as criminal record checks every 5 years. The EOLDAC also follows directions from the local health authorities, hospice and palliative care associations and the Ministry of Health. 

For this reason it’s important to ask questions when hiring a doula such as inquiries about their education, training & experience, scope of practice and code of ethics, etc.

As an end of life doula, I’m a specially trained practitioner who provides support (emotionally, spiritually and mentally) to a client who is dying, as well as their loved ones and caregivers. I support my clients in their efforts to live fully to the end of life.  The approach is holistic intentionally supporting whole person mind, body and spirit.

I am available to provide support in any location (home, hospital, hospice) at any time during the dying process, whether it be near the diagnosis of a life-limiting illness, during the active dying phase, somewhere in between, or after a loved one has already passed. My support and services are customized to serve each client and family where they are and however best supports their specific needs.

At this time death doula services are not covered by medical insurance under MSP.  Some employee’s benefits cover these services so it is worth checking your extended health benefits. Typically doula services are privately acquired.

End of life doulas can be contacted at any time during the end of life process. The sooner the doula can enter into the process, the more time can be spent getting to know the individual and family, creating quality care plans, prioritizing end of life needs, creating sacred space and meaning for the individual and family.

Although most people seek EOL doula services when they have received a diagnosis or are approaching end of life and wish to receive care, I invite people in any life stage to work with me as an opportunity to have open discussions about death & dying and to get their advance planning in place.

My doula services are typically tailored to meet the unique needs of each person and family. My professional and confidential support can begin as early on as diagnosis,  at any point throughout the process, during the vigil time, or even after the death of a loved one occurs.

As a doula practitioner I support my clients holistically in every way I can offering emotional, spiritual and practical support during this challenging time. I am very perceptive as things develop over time and often anticipate needs before they arise.

Some people reach out to me to discuss MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying) whether they themselves are considering or choosing MAiD or are impacted by MAiD in someway, I can offer information, education, help navigating the system and compassionate support and care.

Others reach out to me only for the task of Advance Care Planning either for themselves or for a loved one. I can walk someone through this process as a compassionate and experienced guide to help bring to light all the things to consider when making and documenting these decisions

Absolutely. I commonly hear from the families I work with that they are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. As an end of life doula, I help bring a calm presence to support, guide and help navigate. I can be a great resource for caretakers, family members, and other individuals seeking support in preparing for and caring for the death of a loved one.

As a non-medical practitioner I do not provide medical care of any kind nor administer medications. I also do not provide legal advice. For client needs outside of the Doula scope of practice, I will make referrals to appropriate professionals and community resources.

Furthermore – as an EOL Doula I do not make assumptions about what my client/family needs or impose my own values or judgements. I will not make decisions for you. I am respectful and inclusive. I will not take over the process but be present as a gentle guide with you and your loved ones at the forefront always.