Doula Team FAQ
What certifications do I have to maintain to be a contractor?
In addition to professional doula or Newborn Care Specialist training, Doulas of Baltimore requires all contractors to maintain up-to-date first aid and CPR certification, carry personal liability insurance, and have a current background check on file.
Do I have to certify with a particular doula training to work with you?
We recognize that wonderful doulas come from a wide variety of training organizations. We evaluate all candidates based on their skills and abilities and work with contractors from several different training organizations. Ideal candidates will have completed a hands-on skill portion of their doula training, regardless of the organization.
Can I set my own schedule?
You sure can! You let us know how much you’d like to work in a ‘perfect world’ and we will help you find clients and shifts with that goal in mind.
Is there any incentive to refer clients to the agency?
Yes. Word of mouth has always been our best business builder. We recognize the work that goes into finding clients so if you choose to refer a client to our agency for support, we will give you first right of refusal to work with them as well as a bonus for sending them our way! You can refer anyone—even clients you can’t take on yourself—to be eligible for the bonus.
How does the agency support me if I need back up due to being sick or having a family emergency?
One of our contractors’ favorite things about working with an agency is the support we provide if you get sick, injured, have an emergency, or even just want to attend your sister’s wedding without being called away! We utilize dedicated backups with birth clients so you’re able to actually live your life while being a doula.
Is there a minimum number of shifts or clients I need to commit to?
Nope! You tell us your ideal number of clients or days per week of postpartum work and we’ll work to match you with clients who fit your preferences and availability. You always have the option to decline the work offered to you.
Can I choose the hospitals I want to support births at?
Absolutely. While Doulas of Baltimore serves clients birthing all over the greater Baltimore, Howard, and Anne Arundel County areas, if you have distance preferences we will take that into account when offering client work to you.
What pay rate can I expect?
Pay is a conversation we love having with each independent doula contractor based on their skills and experience. We are proud to pay our doulas a competitive living wage, and we recognize the efforts you put into continuing education courses, certifications, and time spent with our agency when coming to a mutual agreement on pay.
How often will I get paid?
Doulas of Baltimore pays weekly for postpartum shifts, and at initiation and conclusion of the contract for birth support. All payments are invoiced by the contractor and paid via direct deposit.
Will I still be able to take my own private clients?
Absolutely! Doulas of Baltimore does not ever include non-compete clauses in our independent contractor agreements. We only ask that you keep us informed and your schedule with us updated so we can schedule agency clients around your private clients.
Do you have continuing education opportunities?
Yes! One of the huge perks of working with Doulas of Baltimore is becoming part of a team led by experienced birth professionals. We are always accessible to you for client questions and concerns. Additionally, we offer monthly team meetings to enhance your skills, discuss problematic situations you’ve encountered, and continue training on subjects related to our field of work. We have opportunities for working side by side with our leadership as well as assisting in our many birth and parenting classes to continue growing your knowledge base!
Do you have shadow opportunities to help me continue honing my skills?
Absolutely. While we believe that every doula has the ability to support clients from the first day after their training is completed, we recognize the confidence that can be gained when working alongside an experienced mentor. We have opportunities to work in teams with experienced doulas to help you gain confidence in your abilities, from going on client interviews to actual client support.
Doulas of Baltimore, a full-service doula agency, has been providing exceptional care for growing Baltimore families since 2014. Childbirth classes, pregnancy & birth doula support, and in-home postpartum support & newborn care.
Contact us to find a doula in Baltimore today! https://doulasofbaltimore.com/contact/
Doulas of Baltimore’s mission is to strengthen our communities. Our core values of diversity and inclusivity provide the cornerstone on which this mission is built. Our clients come from all walks of life as do our leadership and team members. We know that this representation strengthens ourselves, our business, and our communities. We choose to align, support, and partner with individuals, organizations, and businesses that share these priorities.
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