SANKOFA FULL SPECTRUM DOULA TRAINING & CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
As of 2024, Black Mothers In Power has trained 47 individuals to become Doulas through our Sankofa Full Spectrum Doula Training & Certification Program, with 16 of them achieving certification.
This program offers training and certification twice a year, in January and July, with two unique tracks:
The General Doula Training & Certification Program, designed to equip participants with the foundational skills to provide holistic support for birthing people.
The Doula Mentorship Program, which provides additional hands-on guidance and experience for those pursuing doula work as a career.
General Doula Training and Certification Program
This is for individuals that have never been a part of a Doula program. The Doula Training is for 3 days and the certification process takes 10-12 months. The program consists of mandatory workshops, trainings, book clubs, and mentorship.
The cost of the training and certification process is $1200. Full and partial scholarships could be available. There are options for payment plans.
Doula Mentorship Program
This is for Doulas that have completed any training program within the last 3 years and need assistance with getting births to become certified. The certification process takes 10-12 months, the Doula will receive a mentor, participate in Doula Skills Day, and have the option to participate in book clubs, workshops, & trainings. To become certified, a Doula will need to complete 3 Births, 3 Postpartum care clients and pass an exam.
The cost of the certification process is $600. Full and partial scholarships could be available. There are options for payment plans.
We accept applications all year long.
Becoming a Mentor
A major component of the program is mentorship. A mentor is a past trained BMIP Doula. It is a volunteer position with a stipend.
Mentors facilitate the Doula Skills Day. Doula Skill Days provides a safe space for Doulas to practice skills by exposing them to possible situations they may encounter. Mentors will hold monthly group and 1:1 mentorship opportunities. The mentors will also help to lead the BMIP Book Club.
Sankofa for Dads Doula Training & Certification Program
The Sankofa for Dads Doula Training & Certification Program is the first of its kind in Delaware, designed to train and certify Black men as Doulas to provide non-medical physical, emotional, and mental support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum.
While this program focuses on uplifting and equipping Black fathers, it takes a holistic family-centered approach, ensuring that mothers, fathers, and infants receive the culturally competent care they deserve.
BMIP Doula Skills Day
Trained and experienced Doulas will portray birthing people to help Doulas in training practice pain management, counter pressure techniques, identifying labor symptoms, packing a Doula bag, and communication with birthing people and their families. The event will include real-life scenarios, small group practice, and open Q&A.
Doula Skill Day aims to build confidence in Doulas in training, preparing them to accept clients and become certified. The event is free for BMIP Doulas in training, $10 for BMIP member Doulas, and $20 for non-BMIP member Doulas.
BMIP Book Club
The BMIP Book Club is a platform that brings together Doulas to engage in meaningful discussions about topics related to self-care and maternal health. This is once a month, but the book selection is every other month.
Through curated readings, interactive discussions, and insights, the club aims to promote awareness, share knowledge, and foster a community of individuals dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes.
It is free for BMIP Doulas in training. There is a $10 cost for BMIP member Doulas and $20 for non-BMIP member Doulas.