Stay tuned for details about upcoming
members-only* informational webinars!
NEDA offers a minimum of six different educational webinars on a broad variety of topics relevant to our work in end-of-life care each year. Upcoming webinars will be announced in advance on our social media platforms, in the NEDA News, and email messages. Zoom links are also sent automatically in advance to members. Because these webinars are a members-only benefit, pre-registration is not required.
Webinars are typically recorded with the link sent to members with 72 hours. They are also available to members through links found under the “Files” tab on our members-only Facebook page. Descriptions of past webinars can be found below.
* Webinars are only for NEDA members at the doula, doula trainer, or doula/trainer combo level of membership.
**Please note: The NEDA webinars are meant to be informative and NOT to be considered "training." We encourage you to seek additional training in areas to which you feel drawn.
Webinars are typically recorded with the link sent to members with 72 hours. They are also available to members through links found under the “Files” tab on our members-only Facebook page. Descriptions of past webinars can be found below.
* Webinars are only for NEDA members at the doula, doula trainer, or doula/trainer combo level of membership.
**Please note: The NEDA webinars are meant to be informative and NOT to be considered "training." We encourage you to seek additional training in areas to which you feel drawn.
Previous Member-Only Webinars
(NEDA Members have access to the recordings in the private Facebook group as the website is a public forum)
"Internal Family Systems as a Map for Understanding and Presence" with Michele Bograd, March 20 & April 9, 2025
Michele Bograd presented two sessions: this first was an introduction to core concepts and maps of IFS. And the second was personal exploration and examples of how this model has informed Michele's work as an EOLD.
"Exploring the Experience of Anticipatory Grief" with Dr. Jessica Thomas, February 20, 2025
Jessica Thomas delved into the complex emotions and experience of anticipatory grief. She shared information via personal narratives and using practical coping strategies to gain a deeper understanding of anticipatory grief's impact..
"How to Get Clients: Marketing Basics for Doulas" with Patty Brennan, January 28, 2025
Patty Brennan presented a framework for understanding the three components of marketing: Market, Message, and Media. She provided guidance on identifying your ideal customer and creating effective messages to attract that customer.
"Navigating the Deathcare Regulatory World" with Poul Lemasters, October 24, 2024
Poul Lemasters shared an overview of deathcare regulatory issues, including licensing as well as other day-to-day operational issues that many take for granted - including who is even in charge of a funeral. Deathcare is a very highly regulated profession both at the state and federal level and doulas need to be aware of their role.
"Orient Your Life, Rest in Peace" with Karla Combres, September 24 and October 9, 2024
Over theses two sessions, Karla Combres helped us get clear on what really matters in life and avoiding regrets at the end of it. Through envisioning our ideal legacy, we explored ways to live into it now, in both personal and professional lives.
"Visibility Matters" with Sarah Bahnson, June 25, 2024
Sarah Bahnson shared information on The Visibility Matters training that helps care providers gain the tools needed to create a safe place for LGBTQI+ people to be their authentic selves so that we can meet their unique needs. The training provides information about how to be more aware, sensitive, and responsive to LGBTQI+ older people and their families.
"How to Start a Doula Business" with Patty Brennan, May 8, 2024
Patty Brennan provided a very informative webinar where she outlined the steps necessary to launch a doula business. She shared the pros and cons of a variety of doula business models and legal business structures. In addition, she provided information for doulas to make informed decisions about the doula business model best suited to one's goals, strengths, and skills:
"Honoring Every Journey: LGBTQ+ Affirming Practices for Death Doulas" with Jamie Thrower, April 23, 2024
In this webinar, Jamie Thrower explored the unique needs and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to end-of-life care. From structural barriers to discriminatory practices, Jamie helped us gain a deeper understanding of the specific concerns and experiences that LGBTQ+ individuals may encounter during this vulnerable time.
"Panel Discussion on Natural Organic Reduction" with Nicole Lutz and Taelor Johnson from Mueller Memorial, Laura Cassidy from Recompose, Tom Harries from Earth Funeral, and Micah Truman from Return Home, March 26, 2024
In this session, our panelists discussed what Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) is, how the process works, who is and isn’t a candidate for this option, and the work being done to legalize this option across the U.S.
"Birth Work is Death Work: Broadening the Spectrum of Full Spectrum Doula Care" with Sabia Wade, Feb 27, 2024
In this interactive presentation, Sabia Wade discussed how death work and birth work are inextricably linked and how the choices we have during birth and death are directly intersected with systemic issues - such as access to health care, housing, transportation, and nutrition - and personal trauma work that, if healed, could have a profound impact on the care and choices that individuals have during these important life transitions.
"The Doula Heart: Your Relationship to Silence and Stillness" with Michele Bograd, January 24, 2024
Michele Bograd walked through the importance of silence and stillness as end-of-life doulas. She provided insight into how to consider individual relationships with silence and stillness and how culture and family can shape and impact that relationship, She is discussed when silence and stillness can be beneficial and harmful as well as provided ideas for ways that end-of-life doulas can learn these skills.
"Spiritual Deathwork" with Ashley Oppon, December 19, 2023
Many thanks to Ashley Oppon who presented information on the more esoteric aspects of deathwork. She touched on several topics including commonalities within the spiritual aspects of death throughout the world, ancestor veneration, views on the afterlife, and psychopomps. Understanding that death is looked at from many different lenses and cultural perspectives can help us to better serve our communities as end-of-life professionals.
"Compassionate Communities: A Model for Equitable End-of-Life Care" with Elizabeth Johnson and Erin Collins, November 8, 2023
Inspired by The Peaceful Presence Project with Erin Collins and Elizabeth Johnson, we learned about the Compassionate Communities model as a guiding framework for providing relationship-oriented, equity-informed, and culturally-centered support within our communities. They shared how EOLDs, acting as informed conduits of care and transformation, can collaborate with various systems to enhance community resilience and promote higher quality, more equitable end-of-life care.
"Secular and Universal Rituals: Navigating Life's Milestones" with Megan Sheldon, October 11, 2023
Megan Sheldon shed light on the power of ritual, the beauty of inclusivity, and the opportunity to craft meaningful moments in a way that resonates deeply with our unique perspectives. She guided us through the intricate world of secular and universal rituals as we explored how these rituals can provide comfort, support, and profound meaning during life's most significant moments.
"Caring Connections: Building a Community of Suicide Awareness" with Cait Maddan and Oumou Sylla, September 22, 2023
Cait Maddan and Oumou Sylla led a discussion on the silence, stigma, and misunderstanding as suicide. Both a leading cause of mortality and a profound public health crisis, suicide often resides in plain view, concealed within the private and public domains. The individuals vulnerable to suicide risk and those grappling with the aftermath of a suicide loss frequently find themselves lacking the necessary support, even from those in the helping professions.
"Creative Strategies for Engaging, Empowering, and Involving Children in End-of-Life Care" with Kailey Bradley, August 23, 2023
Kailey Bradley shared insightful perspectives on the challenges that arise when children are shielded from end-of-life care discussions. She highlighted how this can lead to confusion, anxiety, and feelings of shame. The presentation focused on innovative strategies that empower children to actively participate in these conversations, fostering a more supportive and open environment.
"International End-of-Life Doula Research Group Findings" with Merilynne Rush, July 25, 2023
Merilynne Rush shared invaluable insights into the state of international end of life doula research, both past and present, and shed light on the exciting future endeavors in this field. She highlighted the symposium held on April 24-26, 2023, with the goal to explore research priorities through collaboration, information sharing, and open access. EOL Doulas and key stakeholders from four countries met in person as well as over 25 virtual attendees from around the world. Merilynne emphasized that each person has an opportunity to spread end-of-life doula credibility by getting involved in research, individually and collectively.
"Pediatric Path" with Toula Saratsis, June 20, 2023
Toula Saratsis facilitated a truly enlightening session, providing valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance pediatric care in an EOL practice. Toula delved into the complexities of pediatric end-of-life care, exploring various aspects with compassion and expertise to effectively support children and their circles of care during this challenging time.
"2SLGBTQIA+ End-of-Life Care" with Tiana Dargent, May 9, 2023
Tiana Dargent provided us with a wealth of information, resources, and tools to help us understand and address the unique end-of-life care needs of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We believe that this knowledge will be valuable not only to our members but also to the communities we serve.
"Estate Exploring End-of-Life Care for Veterans and their Loved Ones Through the Lens of a Doula" with Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar, April 12, 2023
Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar shared valuable insights and methods to raise awareness, develop, and implement initiatives focused on the unique needs and challenges that Veterans face as they approach the end of their lives. Her expertise and passion for supporting Veterans in their final stages of life were truly inspiring, and we are thankful for her contribution to the webinar.
"Estate Planning Basics" with Jenny Ling Esq, March 15, 2023
Jenny Ling Esq. shared how to protect assets and ensure that our loved ones are taken care of when they are no longer around. She covered topics such as wills, trusts, and probate, and provided practical advice on how to navigate the complex legal and financial issues involved in estate planning.
"Business Law for Small Businesses" with Michael Safren, February 15, 2023
Michael Safren, a licensed attorney in Washington, shared valuable information applicable to small businesses, not just specific to doulas. Michael presented an overview of various business entity formations for asset protection, understanding and preparing for the 4 D’s in business, the role of contracts, and practical tips to help avoid litigation.
"Processing Collective Grief" with Lauren Carroll and Erin Merelli, November 16, 2022
Lauren Carroll and Erin Merelli from the Deathwives created and shared an intimate setting to be in process around grief and modeled how we can individually and collectively approach the messiness of life. They spoke from the heart with a warm, inviting, no-nonsense style, and inspired others to show up unapologetically and authentically by discussing methods to manage, be with, and even ritualize our grief.
"A Mad Crip Lens on Death: Aging, Grief, and Loss Beyond the Pathology Paradigm" with Stefanie Lyn Kaufman Mthinkhulu, August 17, 2022
Stefanie Lyn Kaufman Mthinkhulu from Projects LETS shared a comprehensive review of innate wisdom Disabled & mad people have about grief and death, including: how ableism dictates what it means to have a good life, death, and bodymind; living and dying on crip time; joining people’s universes and letting go of expectations; and how crips navigate shifting bodymind capacity with humor, grace, (and yes, frustration and anger)-- way before the time we transition.
"EOL Doulas and Hospice: Background, Barriers, and Breakthroughs" with NHPCO , July 13, 2022
We had an engaging webinar of panelists consisting of members of NHPCO End-of-Life Doula Council and members of NEDA's board of directors teaming up to share informative information on strategies end-of-life doulas can use when approaching their local hospice. Panelists described the different ways hospice organizations and end-of-life doulas may interact for the benefit of their community.
"Burnout and Compassion Fatigue" with Adrienne Aaron, May 19, 2022
As the founder of Aaron Counseling and Consulting PLLC, Adrienne Aaron, LCSW helped us understand the signs and symptoms of burnout and compassion fatigue, something that is very real for end-of-life doulas. She also shared ways to prevent and avoid burnout and compassion fatigue, and explained what can be done to manage symptoms.
"Plant Allies to Support Death Care" with Emily Ruff, April 21, 2022
NEDA is proud to offer informative presentations on all aspects of end-of-life care, death and dying. Incorporating herbs into end-of-life care is ancillary and supportive to the NEDA Scope of Practice and as Emily Ruff shared, should be offered only with training and consent of the patient and their loved ones. Emily also offered many ideas for self-care as we continue to serve the dying.
"Doulas and After-Death Care" with Lee Webster, March 22, 2022
Lee Webster provided a comprehensive review of what needs to happen, who has to do it, and how doulas can —and can't offer support and assistance after a death occurs. Even if you have no plans to offer after-death care, knowing the ins and outs of home funeral practices and laws will be valuable in your doula planning work. A wonderful free mini course about after-death care can be found here.
"Money Matters" with Carol Little, January 28, 2022
Carol Little explored the ways in which our beliefs around money influence our earning potential. We identified the limiting beliefs that have kept us from reaching our financial goals and develop strategies to create a new and more successful relationship with money.
"Guiding Children and Families Through Grief" with Valenca O'Donovan Valenzuela, July 28, 2021
This webinar provided valuable information on navigating children and families through grief. We received a brief history of death and dying in the United States and how we celebrated and ritualized death. She then discussed the different ways children assimilate and need care within the context of death and dying commensurate with the ages of children. Empowerment, reflect and honesty were the buzzwords for this in-depth presentation.
"Transcendental Beliefs" with Marilyn Ababio and Ali Sharif, May 18, 2021
Our webinar on Transcendentalism was truly a lovely exchange of knowledge and community between the 35 members who attended the presentation. We were thrilled to welcome Marilyn Ababio and Ali Sharif from Comfort Homesake who led us in exploration of mysticism, meditation, religion and how it dances with death.
"LGBT+ Considerations for EOL Care" with Sadiya Adjani, March 18, 2021
Thank you to Sadiya Adjani from SAGE for the engaging and educational presentation on LGBT+ aging and care, giving over 30 participants terminology and tools to assist us with navigating the landscape of elder Queer care, and the vastness thereof. The chat was lively as we participated in answering questions posed by Sadiya. The case-study presented was a learning opportunity for the attendees and as we wrapped up discussed multiple resources to assist us.
"Beyond The Advance Directive" with Alua Arthur, February 24, 2021
Our group of over 70 participants listened as Death Doula and Educator Alua Arthur walked us through a heap of information! From financial issues like Payable Upon Death, Living Wills and Trusts to legacy questions like "What is the most romantic thing anyone ever did for you?" Alua covered a massive amount of information and even made time to answer questions at the end. You'll want this replay so you can pause to write everything down.
"Medical Aid in Dying" with Robert Drake, December 3, 2020
Over 50 participants listened as presenter Bob Drake discussed everything from definitions and roadblocks to the process of carrying out Medical Aid in Dying itself. We heard stories from three people who had loved ones avail themselves of the process of Medical AID, and also from the CEO of Compassion & Choices, Kim Callinan.
"Racial Inequality in Deathcare" with Lupe Tehada Diaz, October 21, 2020
Lupe Tehada Diaz (she/her) is an Indigenous Death Doula who has a strong cultural connection to death and dying. She is the founder of Doula Damn Thing, an organization committed to serving the Indigenous, POC, LGBTQ+, and lower income communities with end-of-life needs. In this presentation Lupe will examine the fetishization of brown and black bodies by the media, and the consequence of systemic racism within the deathcare community.
"Vigil Keeping and Ritualization" with Nina Guertin, June 30, 2020
Many thanks to Nina Guertin, end-of-life doula, certified Interfaith Spiritual Director, and Angel Artist for sharing beautiful examples of vigil planning and rituals that she has done with individuals and families. She discussed the rituals and personalization included as we guide clients through their end of life and how the "lenses" through which they see can assist us in constructing the best vigil plan possible.
"Are You Interested in Creating an End-of-Life Doula Work Group?" with Lisa Patterson and Victoria Quinn-Stephens, May 19, 2020
Whether you are new to NEDA or a long term member, Lisa Patterson and Victoria Quinn-Stephens shared valuable information on NEDA itself, how it supports and serves the membership, and how we can support the formation of a working collective of doulas. They provided a comprehensive overview of the process, with links and materials so there is no need to 'recreate the wheel.'
"The Role of Community Death Care" with Lashanna Williams and Lori Goldwyn, April 21, 2020
Lashanna Williams from The Pearl Collective and Lori Goldwyn of the East Bay End of Life Doula Network shared the benefits and challenges of belonging to an End of Life Doula Collective. They discussed how each of their groups work with each other and clients, how they were founded, and gave bullet points on everything from referral systems to services offered, payment schedules and referral fees.
"Pain Management at the End of Life" with Barbara Karnes, RN, March 9, 2020
Barbara Karnes, RN, in conversation with Board member, Alua Arthur, spoke about pain management at the end-of-life. One of the key points in the webinar was the discussion on how EOL doulas can support and empower families to ensure that the dying person's pain is adequately managed with comfort and alertness being the primary goals.
"Medical Terminology, Hospice/Doula Relationships, and Hospice Packs" with Dr. Jackie Yaeger, February 18, 2020
Dr. Yaeger, a palliative and hospice physician as well as an EOLD discussed the need of the dying to receive the 'more spiritual side' of care at the end of life. She shared her L.E.A.D.E.R. mnemonic which is a great resource to use in EOLD work. In addition, Dr. Yaeger explained Hospice Comfort Packs.
"All Things Hospice" with Merilynne Rush and Karen Reppen, January 14, 2020
Merilynne Rush and Karen Reppen discussed the merits of hospice volunteering to gain experience, how to approach your local hospice, what you need to know about hospice policies and politics, and trends they see as we continue to navigate the terrain of this developing profession.
"Memorial Arts" with EE Miller, MFA, MA, November 21, 2019
The presentation included simple and accessible tools to engage for a range of experiences and situations, including dementia, anticipatory grief, and the tendency to view death only in terms of what is happening to the body.
"Spiritual Care for the Dying" with Patricia Lyndale, October 15, 2019
Patricia Lyndale, a hospital chaplain, shared with us how doulas can work with chaplains to provide spiritual care for the dying. She offered information on the difference between spiritual screening, spiritual history, and spiritual assessment. Pat also taught us a tool for taking a spiritual history!
"Nurturing Touch for the Dying" with Elizabeth Erbrecht, LMT, September 10, 2019
Elizabeth Erbrecht LMT shared her vast knowledge of nurturing touch for the dying. She included some tips on having the conversation, how to touch, and how to support families in touching those they love that are nearing the end of life. She also shared the four types of touch that she teaches: being present with the body, energy work, light touch and nurturing touch, using presence as her guide in working with bodies.
"How to Market and Build Your Social Media Platform as an End-of-Life Doula" with Alua Arthur and Suzanne O'Brien, RN, July 22, 2019
Suzanne O'Brien, RN, and Alua Arthur shared tips and tricks for growing your platform as an End-of-Life Doula. This informational webinar shared how to engage one's natural skills and personality while also leveraging opportunities to create community and spread the word about our work. It was a rich session where members shared some of what has worked for them and some challenges that they've encountered along the way. We find the most strength and support when we can be in conversation together about what we are experiencing in the field!
"After Death Care and the End of Life Doula" with Lee Webster and Merilynne Rush, April 30, 2019
National Home Funeral Alliance and NEDA leaders Lee Webster and Merilynne Rush discussed the legal obligations of end-of-life doulas once the patient has died - a topic often not thoroughly covered in doula trainings. We learned about the home funeral movement that laid the groundwork for after-death care, and important details about the ins and outs of helping end-of-life doulas and their families once the family member dies.
Michele Bograd presented two sessions: this first was an introduction to core concepts and maps of IFS. And the second was personal exploration and examples of how this model has informed Michele's work as an EOLD.
"Exploring the Experience of Anticipatory Grief" with Dr. Jessica Thomas, February 20, 2025
Jessica Thomas delved into the complex emotions and experience of anticipatory grief. She shared information via personal narratives and using practical coping strategies to gain a deeper understanding of anticipatory grief's impact..
"How to Get Clients: Marketing Basics for Doulas" with Patty Brennan, January 28, 2025
Patty Brennan presented a framework for understanding the three components of marketing: Market, Message, and Media. She provided guidance on identifying your ideal customer and creating effective messages to attract that customer.
"Navigating the Deathcare Regulatory World" with Poul Lemasters, October 24, 2024
Poul Lemasters shared an overview of deathcare regulatory issues, including licensing as well as other day-to-day operational issues that many take for granted - including who is even in charge of a funeral. Deathcare is a very highly regulated profession both at the state and federal level and doulas need to be aware of their role.
"Orient Your Life, Rest in Peace" with Karla Combres, September 24 and October 9, 2024
Over theses two sessions, Karla Combres helped us get clear on what really matters in life and avoiding regrets at the end of it. Through envisioning our ideal legacy, we explored ways to live into it now, in both personal and professional lives.
"Visibility Matters" with Sarah Bahnson, June 25, 2024
Sarah Bahnson shared information on The Visibility Matters training that helps care providers gain the tools needed to create a safe place for LGBTQI+ people to be their authentic selves so that we can meet their unique needs. The training provides information about how to be more aware, sensitive, and responsive to LGBTQI+ older people and their families.
"How to Start a Doula Business" with Patty Brennan, May 8, 2024
Patty Brennan provided a very informative webinar where she outlined the steps necessary to launch a doula business. She shared the pros and cons of a variety of doula business models and legal business structures. In addition, she provided information for doulas to make informed decisions about the doula business model best suited to one's goals, strengths, and skills:
"Honoring Every Journey: LGBTQ+ Affirming Practices for Death Doulas" with Jamie Thrower, April 23, 2024
In this webinar, Jamie Thrower explored the unique needs and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community when it comes to end-of-life care. From structural barriers to discriminatory practices, Jamie helped us gain a deeper understanding of the specific concerns and experiences that LGBTQ+ individuals may encounter during this vulnerable time.
"Panel Discussion on Natural Organic Reduction" with Nicole Lutz and Taelor Johnson from Mueller Memorial, Laura Cassidy from Recompose, Tom Harries from Earth Funeral, and Micah Truman from Return Home, March 26, 2024
In this session, our panelists discussed what Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) is, how the process works, who is and isn’t a candidate for this option, and the work being done to legalize this option across the U.S.
"Birth Work is Death Work: Broadening the Spectrum of Full Spectrum Doula Care" with Sabia Wade, Feb 27, 2024
In this interactive presentation, Sabia Wade discussed how death work and birth work are inextricably linked and how the choices we have during birth and death are directly intersected with systemic issues - such as access to health care, housing, transportation, and nutrition - and personal trauma work that, if healed, could have a profound impact on the care and choices that individuals have during these important life transitions.
"The Doula Heart: Your Relationship to Silence and Stillness" with Michele Bograd, January 24, 2024
Michele Bograd walked through the importance of silence and stillness as end-of-life doulas. She provided insight into how to consider individual relationships with silence and stillness and how culture and family can shape and impact that relationship, She is discussed when silence and stillness can be beneficial and harmful as well as provided ideas for ways that end-of-life doulas can learn these skills.
"Spiritual Deathwork" with Ashley Oppon, December 19, 2023
Many thanks to Ashley Oppon who presented information on the more esoteric aspects of deathwork. She touched on several topics including commonalities within the spiritual aspects of death throughout the world, ancestor veneration, views on the afterlife, and psychopomps. Understanding that death is looked at from many different lenses and cultural perspectives can help us to better serve our communities as end-of-life professionals.
"Compassionate Communities: A Model for Equitable End-of-Life Care" with Elizabeth Johnson and Erin Collins, November 8, 2023
Inspired by The Peaceful Presence Project with Erin Collins and Elizabeth Johnson, we learned about the Compassionate Communities model as a guiding framework for providing relationship-oriented, equity-informed, and culturally-centered support within our communities. They shared how EOLDs, acting as informed conduits of care and transformation, can collaborate with various systems to enhance community resilience and promote higher quality, more equitable end-of-life care.
"Secular and Universal Rituals: Navigating Life's Milestones" with Megan Sheldon, October 11, 2023
Megan Sheldon shed light on the power of ritual, the beauty of inclusivity, and the opportunity to craft meaningful moments in a way that resonates deeply with our unique perspectives. She guided us through the intricate world of secular and universal rituals as we explored how these rituals can provide comfort, support, and profound meaning during life's most significant moments.
"Caring Connections: Building a Community of Suicide Awareness" with Cait Maddan and Oumou Sylla, September 22, 2023
Cait Maddan and Oumou Sylla led a discussion on the silence, stigma, and misunderstanding as suicide. Both a leading cause of mortality and a profound public health crisis, suicide often resides in plain view, concealed within the private and public domains. The individuals vulnerable to suicide risk and those grappling with the aftermath of a suicide loss frequently find themselves lacking the necessary support, even from those in the helping professions.
"Creative Strategies for Engaging, Empowering, and Involving Children in End-of-Life Care" with Kailey Bradley, August 23, 2023
Kailey Bradley shared insightful perspectives on the challenges that arise when children are shielded from end-of-life care discussions. She highlighted how this can lead to confusion, anxiety, and feelings of shame. The presentation focused on innovative strategies that empower children to actively participate in these conversations, fostering a more supportive and open environment.
"International End-of-Life Doula Research Group Findings" with Merilynne Rush, July 25, 2023
Merilynne Rush shared invaluable insights into the state of international end of life doula research, both past and present, and shed light on the exciting future endeavors in this field. She highlighted the symposium held on April 24-26, 2023, with the goal to explore research priorities through collaboration, information sharing, and open access. EOL Doulas and key stakeholders from four countries met in person as well as over 25 virtual attendees from around the world. Merilynne emphasized that each person has an opportunity to spread end-of-life doula credibility by getting involved in research, individually and collectively.
"Pediatric Path" with Toula Saratsis, June 20, 2023
Toula Saratsis facilitated a truly enlightening session, providing valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance pediatric care in an EOL practice. Toula delved into the complexities of pediatric end-of-life care, exploring various aspects with compassion and expertise to effectively support children and their circles of care during this challenging time.
"2SLGBTQIA+ End-of-Life Care" with Tiana Dargent, May 9, 2023
Tiana Dargent provided us with a wealth of information, resources, and tools to help us understand and address the unique end-of-life care needs of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We believe that this knowledge will be valuable not only to our members but also to the communities we serve.
"Estate Exploring End-of-Life Care for Veterans and their Loved Ones Through the Lens of a Doula" with Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar, April 12, 2023
Dr. Qwynn Galloway-Salazar shared valuable insights and methods to raise awareness, develop, and implement initiatives focused on the unique needs and challenges that Veterans face as they approach the end of their lives. Her expertise and passion for supporting Veterans in their final stages of life were truly inspiring, and we are thankful for her contribution to the webinar.
"Estate Planning Basics" with Jenny Ling Esq, March 15, 2023
Jenny Ling Esq. shared how to protect assets and ensure that our loved ones are taken care of when they are no longer around. She covered topics such as wills, trusts, and probate, and provided practical advice on how to navigate the complex legal and financial issues involved in estate planning.
"Business Law for Small Businesses" with Michael Safren, February 15, 2023
Michael Safren, a licensed attorney in Washington, shared valuable information applicable to small businesses, not just specific to doulas. Michael presented an overview of various business entity formations for asset protection, understanding and preparing for the 4 D’s in business, the role of contracts, and practical tips to help avoid litigation.
"Processing Collective Grief" with Lauren Carroll and Erin Merelli, November 16, 2022
Lauren Carroll and Erin Merelli from the Deathwives created and shared an intimate setting to be in process around grief and modeled how we can individually and collectively approach the messiness of life. They spoke from the heart with a warm, inviting, no-nonsense style, and inspired others to show up unapologetically and authentically by discussing methods to manage, be with, and even ritualize our grief.
"A Mad Crip Lens on Death: Aging, Grief, and Loss Beyond the Pathology Paradigm" with Stefanie Lyn Kaufman Mthinkhulu, August 17, 2022
Stefanie Lyn Kaufman Mthinkhulu from Projects LETS shared a comprehensive review of innate wisdom Disabled & mad people have about grief and death, including: how ableism dictates what it means to have a good life, death, and bodymind; living and dying on crip time; joining people’s universes and letting go of expectations; and how crips navigate shifting bodymind capacity with humor, grace, (and yes, frustration and anger)-- way before the time we transition.
"EOL Doulas and Hospice: Background, Barriers, and Breakthroughs" with NHPCO , July 13, 2022
We had an engaging webinar of panelists consisting of members of NHPCO End-of-Life Doula Council and members of NEDA's board of directors teaming up to share informative information on strategies end-of-life doulas can use when approaching their local hospice. Panelists described the different ways hospice organizations and end-of-life doulas may interact for the benefit of their community.
"Burnout and Compassion Fatigue" with Adrienne Aaron, May 19, 2022
As the founder of Aaron Counseling and Consulting PLLC, Adrienne Aaron, LCSW helped us understand the signs and symptoms of burnout and compassion fatigue, something that is very real for end-of-life doulas. She also shared ways to prevent and avoid burnout and compassion fatigue, and explained what can be done to manage symptoms.
"Plant Allies to Support Death Care" with Emily Ruff, April 21, 2022
NEDA is proud to offer informative presentations on all aspects of end-of-life care, death and dying. Incorporating herbs into end-of-life care is ancillary and supportive to the NEDA Scope of Practice and as Emily Ruff shared, should be offered only with training and consent of the patient and their loved ones. Emily also offered many ideas for self-care as we continue to serve the dying.
"Doulas and After-Death Care" with Lee Webster, March 22, 2022
Lee Webster provided a comprehensive review of what needs to happen, who has to do it, and how doulas can —and can't offer support and assistance after a death occurs. Even if you have no plans to offer after-death care, knowing the ins and outs of home funeral practices and laws will be valuable in your doula planning work. A wonderful free mini course about after-death care can be found here.
"Money Matters" with Carol Little, January 28, 2022
Carol Little explored the ways in which our beliefs around money influence our earning potential. We identified the limiting beliefs that have kept us from reaching our financial goals and develop strategies to create a new and more successful relationship with money.
"Guiding Children and Families Through Grief" with Valenca O'Donovan Valenzuela, July 28, 2021
This webinar provided valuable information on navigating children and families through grief. We received a brief history of death and dying in the United States and how we celebrated and ritualized death. She then discussed the different ways children assimilate and need care within the context of death and dying commensurate with the ages of children. Empowerment, reflect and honesty were the buzzwords for this in-depth presentation.
"Transcendental Beliefs" with Marilyn Ababio and Ali Sharif, May 18, 2021
Our webinar on Transcendentalism was truly a lovely exchange of knowledge and community between the 35 members who attended the presentation. We were thrilled to welcome Marilyn Ababio and Ali Sharif from Comfort Homesake who led us in exploration of mysticism, meditation, religion and how it dances with death.
"LGBT+ Considerations for EOL Care" with Sadiya Adjani, March 18, 2021
Thank you to Sadiya Adjani from SAGE for the engaging and educational presentation on LGBT+ aging and care, giving over 30 participants terminology and tools to assist us with navigating the landscape of elder Queer care, and the vastness thereof. The chat was lively as we participated in answering questions posed by Sadiya. The case-study presented was a learning opportunity for the attendees and as we wrapped up discussed multiple resources to assist us.
"Beyond The Advance Directive" with Alua Arthur, February 24, 2021
Our group of over 70 participants listened as Death Doula and Educator Alua Arthur walked us through a heap of information! From financial issues like Payable Upon Death, Living Wills and Trusts to legacy questions like "What is the most romantic thing anyone ever did for you?" Alua covered a massive amount of information and even made time to answer questions at the end. You'll want this replay so you can pause to write everything down.
"Medical Aid in Dying" with Robert Drake, December 3, 2020
Over 50 participants listened as presenter Bob Drake discussed everything from definitions and roadblocks to the process of carrying out Medical Aid in Dying itself. We heard stories from three people who had loved ones avail themselves of the process of Medical AID, and also from the CEO of Compassion & Choices, Kim Callinan.
"Racial Inequality in Deathcare" with Lupe Tehada Diaz, October 21, 2020
Lupe Tehada Diaz (she/her) is an Indigenous Death Doula who has a strong cultural connection to death and dying. She is the founder of Doula Damn Thing, an organization committed to serving the Indigenous, POC, LGBTQ+, and lower income communities with end-of-life needs. In this presentation Lupe will examine the fetishization of brown and black bodies by the media, and the consequence of systemic racism within the deathcare community.
"Vigil Keeping and Ritualization" with Nina Guertin, June 30, 2020
Many thanks to Nina Guertin, end-of-life doula, certified Interfaith Spiritual Director, and Angel Artist for sharing beautiful examples of vigil planning and rituals that she has done with individuals and families. She discussed the rituals and personalization included as we guide clients through their end of life and how the "lenses" through which they see can assist us in constructing the best vigil plan possible.
"Are You Interested in Creating an End-of-Life Doula Work Group?" with Lisa Patterson and Victoria Quinn-Stephens, May 19, 2020
Whether you are new to NEDA or a long term member, Lisa Patterson and Victoria Quinn-Stephens shared valuable information on NEDA itself, how it supports and serves the membership, and how we can support the formation of a working collective of doulas. They provided a comprehensive overview of the process, with links and materials so there is no need to 'recreate the wheel.'
"The Role of Community Death Care" with Lashanna Williams and Lori Goldwyn, April 21, 2020
Lashanna Williams from The Pearl Collective and Lori Goldwyn of the East Bay End of Life Doula Network shared the benefits and challenges of belonging to an End of Life Doula Collective. They discussed how each of their groups work with each other and clients, how they were founded, and gave bullet points on everything from referral systems to services offered, payment schedules and referral fees.
"Pain Management at the End of Life" with Barbara Karnes, RN, March 9, 2020
Barbara Karnes, RN, in conversation with Board member, Alua Arthur, spoke about pain management at the end-of-life. One of the key points in the webinar was the discussion on how EOL doulas can support and empower families to ensure that the dying person's pain is adequately managed with comfort and alertness being the primary goals.
"Medical Terminology, Hospice/Doula Relationships, and Hospice Packs" with Dr. Jackie Yaeger, February 18, 2020
Dr. Yaeger, a palliative and hospice physician as well as an EOLD discussed the need of the dying to receive the 'more spiritual side' of care at the end of life. She shared her L.E.A.D.E.R. mnemonic which is a great resource to use in EOLD work. In addition, Dr. Yaeger explained Hospice Comfort Packs.
"All Things Hospice" with Merilynne Rush and Karen Reppen, January 14, 2020
Merilynne Rush and Karen Reppen discussed the merits of hospice volunteering to gain experience, how to approach your local hospice, what you need to know about hospice policies and politics, and trends they see as we continue to navigate the terrain of this developing profession.
"Memorial Arts" with EE Miller, MFA, MA, November 21, 2019
The presentation included simple and accessible tools to engage for a range of experiences and situations, including dementia, anticipatory grief, and the tendency to view death only in terms of what is happening to the body.
"Spiritual Care for the Dying" with Patricia Lyndale, October 15, 2019
Patricia Lyndale, a hospital chaplain, shared with us how doulas can work with chaplains to provide spiritual care for the dying. She offered information on the difference between spiritual screening, spiritual history, and spiritual assessment. Pat also taught us a tool for taking a spiritual history!
"Nurturing Touch for the Dying" with Elizabeth Erbrecht, LMT, September 10, 2019
Elizabeth Erbrecht LMT shared her vast knowledge of nurturing touch for the dying. She included some tips on having the conversation, how to touch, and how to support families in touching those they love that are nearing the end of life. She also shared the four types of touch that she teaches: being present with the body, energy work, light touch and nurturing touch, using presence as her guide in working with bodies.
"How to Market and Build Your Social Media Platform as an End-of-Life Doula" with Alua Arthur and Suzanne O'Brien, RN, July 22, 2019
Suzanne O'Brien, RN, and Alua Arthur shared tips and tricks for growing your platform as an End-of-Life Doula. This informational webinar shared how to engage one's natural skills and personality while also leveraging opportunities to create community and spread the word about our work. It was a rich session where members shared some of what has worked for them and some challenges that they've encountered along the way. We find the most strength and support when we can be in conversation together about what we are experiencing in the field!
"After Death Care and the End of Life Doula" with Lee Webster and Merilynne Rush, April 30, 2019
National Home Funeral Alliance and NEDA leaders Lee Webster and Merilynne Rush discussed the legal obligations of end-of-life doulas once the patient has died - a topic often not thoroughly covered in doula trainings. We learned about the home funeral movement that laid the groundwork for after-death care, and important details about the ins and outs of helping end-of-life doulas and their families once the family member dies.
Meet the Experts
Looking for more in-depth information to strengthen and build your practice? Let us help. Become a NEDA member as a doula, doula trainer, or doula/trainer combo to receive e-invitations to participate in our interactive online learning webinars and get links to the recordings. In our Member-only webinars we explore critical aspects of providing quality doula care. You will receive an email with the log-in information and a follow-up email with the link to the recording. We also post this info in our Members-only Facebook group. We welcome your questions and ideas for topics and people to interview—send them to us here.
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Ferns are traditional symbols of humility and sincerity, both chief qualities of end-of-life doulas NEDA©2024, Powered by Weebly, Designed by Lee Webster, Content by Lee Webster and Merilynne Rush |
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