Empowering Future Perinatal Doulas: The Growing Place Perinatal Doula Certification Program
Meet Gini Woodbridge
Gini Woodbridge is a passionate and experienced perinatal doula trainer dedicated to empowering the next generation of doulas. With 17 years of experience as a doula and childbirth educator, and 20 years as a small business owner, Gini understands the profound impact that skilled support can have on families during the perinatal period.
Since 2021, Gini has been training perinatal doulas at The Growing Place, where she continues to cultivate a nurturing environment for new doulas. As the co-owner of The Growing Place Doula Agency, established in 2013, she helps families navigate the complexities of pregnancy and childbirth with confidence. Her extensive background includes midwifery assistant training at the renowned Farm Midwifery Center in Tennessee, where she honed her ability to provide compassionate and knowledgeable support in various birthing settings.
Gini’s journey into the world of perinatal support is deeply personal. Becoming a mother in 2002 and again in 2008 inspired her to share her experiences and insights with others. This unique perspective enables her to connect with her students on a meaningful level, fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages growth and confidence.
In addition to her doula training, Gini has been a certified Yoga Birth Method Trainer since 2011, integrating mindfulness and movement into her training programs. This holistic approach empowers aspiring doulas to incorporate wellness techniques into their practice, enhancing the overall experience for the families they support.
With 22 years of experience as a small business owner and a background as a certified veterinary technician, Gini combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a deep commitment to educating and nurturing others. Her training programs are designed to equip future perinatal doulas with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in this rewarding field.
If you are considering a career as a perinatal doula, Gini Woodbridge’s training offers a comprehensive and supportive path to certification. Join her in making a positive difference in the lives of families and become part of a community dedicated to compassion, education, and empowerment. Your journey as a perinatal doula begins here!
Program Overview
Our certification program includes extensive hybrid in-person or virtual instruction covering essential topics, including:
- Labor and Birth Doula Skill Building: Gain hands-on experience in providing emotional and physical support during labor and birth.
- Physiology of Labor and Birth: Understand the biological processes involved in labor and how they impact the birthing experience.
- Understanding Medical Aspects of Labor and Birth: Learn to navigate medical interventions and collaborate effectively with healthcare providers.
- Communication Skill Building: Develop essential communication techniques to connect with clients and support their needs.
- Creating Your Own Doula Business: Get practical advice on establishing and running your own successful perinatal doula practice.
- Postpartum Doula Skill Building: Learn how to support families in the postpartum period, addressing their emotional and physical needs.
- Supporting the Breastfeeding Mother: Equip yourself with the knowledge to assist breastfeeding mothers and promote successful breastfeeding practices.
- Understanding the Postpartum Period for Mother and Family Dynamics: Explore the complexities of family dynamics during the postpartum phase and how to provide holistic support.
Creative Learning Techniques
At The Growing Place, we believe in the power of hands-on learning. Our program incorporates creative techniques such as:
- Role-Playing Scenarios: Engage in real-life scenarios that prepare you for the challenges and triumphs of being a doula.
- Hands-On Skills Practice: Practice your skills as a doula in a supportive environment.
- Case Studies: Analyze real-life case studies to understand diverse situations that doulas may encounter.
-Multimedia Resources: Benefit from a variety of learning materials, including videos, presentations, and group discussions, to enhance your understanding.
What to Expect After Certification
Upon completing our Perinatal Doula Certification Program, you can expect to:
- Feel Confident Running Your Own Business: Gain the skills and knowledge necessary to establish and manage your own perinatal doula practice.
- Find and Speak to Clients and Healthcare Providers: Develop effective networking strategies to connect with expectant families and collaborate with healthcare professionals.
- Support Pregnant Women Throughout Their Journey: Provide continuous support from pregnancy through the postpartum period, ensuring families feel cared for and empowered.
- Assist Breastfeeding Mothers: Offer guidance and encouragement to breastfeeding mothers, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
Perinatal Doula Certification Pricing
We are committed to providing a comprehensive, full spectum, accessible perinatal doula training program that equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in this rewarding field. Our certification pricing is competitive with major organizations, ensuring you receive exceptional value for your investment in your future.
Our program includes a robust 36 hours of virtual instruction, allowing you to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your home. Additionally, you will participate in a 15-hour hands-on workshop in your area, providing practical experience that reinforces your learning. Please contact us to learn about bringing our hands on workshop to your area. The cost of the full spectrum program is $1500 however we offer discounts for referrals and we are offing and introductory rate for our class staring September 22. We are offering our Fall 2025 training for $1200. Your training will pay for its self in your first 1-2 birth and or postpartum clients!
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from ongoing communication with your doula trainer, ensuring you have the support and guidance you need every step of the way. We believe that investing in your education as a perinatal doula is an investment in the families you will support.
Join The Growing Place and take the first step toward a fulfilling career as a certified perinatal doula. Empower families, support mothers, and make a lasting impact in your community.
Commonly asked Q&A
Q: Is this training “approved”?
A: At The Growing Place, our perinatal doula certification program is designed to meet the certification requirements set by the state of Pennsylvania as well as many other states’ certification requirements. While our training aligns with state standards, it's important to note that programs like DONA International and CAPPA are not state-specific; they provide valuable training that can be applied in various states, similar to our approach. Each state has its own regulations regarding doula certification, and while some states offer formal certification, others do not. It's crucial for aspiring doulas to research whether their chosen certification program fulfills any additional requirements they may need for certifications outside of their training. Although doulas can practice without formal certifications or training, such qualifications may be necessary for those looking to work with Medicaid or other state or federally funded programs, as these may have specific training requirements.
Q: What is the duration of the certification program?
A: The Growing Place Perinatal Doula Certification Program spans 6 weeks of virtual classroom instruction, self paced at-home instruction 2 days a week, 15 hour in person hands-on training in your area. Specific timelines may vary based on the course schedule and individual student.
Q: What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the program?
A: While there are no strict prerequisites, it is beneficial for students to have a foundational understanding of childbirth and a genuine interest in supporting families during the perinatal period. Some experience in healthcare or related fields may also be helpful but certainly not required.
Q What topics are covered in the program?
A: The program covers a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:
- Anatomy and physiology of childbirth
- Comfort measures and pain management techniques
- Medical interventions and considerations in pregnancy and birth
- Emotional and psychological support for clients
- Postpartum care of Mother, Baby and the Postpartum Family
- Supporting the Breastfeeding Mother
- Cultural competency and diversity in maternity care
- Hippa Policy and how it relates to the Doula
- Building your own business
Q: What is the process for obtaining certification?
A: To obtain certification, students must:
- Complete all course requirements, including attendance and participation on-line and in person
- Pass any required assessments or exams
- Demonstrate practical experience and knowledge during the hands on workshop
Q: How long does it take to receive my certification after completing the program?
A: Once all requirements are met, certification will be presented at the end of the hands-on workshop.
Q: Are there ongoing education requirements to maintain certification?
A: Yes, certified doulas are encouraged to pursue continuing education opportunities to stay current with best practices and enhance their skills. Specific requirements may vary, so it's important to check the guidelines provided upon recertification.
Q: What resources are available for continuing education after certification?
A: Certified doulas are encouraged to join professional networking organizations, online classes and forums and community events for access to further training and networking opportunities.
Q: Who can I contact if I have questions during the program?
A: Students can reach out to Gini Woodbridge, the Program Coordinator, for any questions or support. Contact details are provided in the program materials and on our website.
Q: What if I cannot attend a scheduled class or workshop?
A: If you can’t attend a virtual class or workshop, don’t worry! All our virtual classes are recorded, allowing you to watch them and rewatch them at your convenience after the live session concludes. We encourage you to reach out to us with any questions you may have after watching the recording, and we’d be happy to connect and help clarify any topics. However, if you miss the hands-on workshop at the end of the training, you may need to wait until the next training session to participate in that practical component.
Q: Can I work as a doula before completing the certification process?
A: Yes, many students begin working as doulas while completing their certification. However, it is important to clarify the scope of practice and ensure you are adequately prepared to support families.
We Want to Hear from You!
Are you interested in embarking on a rewarding journey as a perinatal doula? We're excited to support you on this path! To ensure our training program meets your needs and expectations, we invite you to fill out a brief survey. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us understand what you’re looking for and how we can best serve you.
Whether you have specific topics in mind, preferred learning styles, or any other preferences, your insights will shape our program to create a nurturing and empowering experience.
Fill out the survey below to share your thoughts, and together, let’s build a supportive community for aspiring doulas. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us!