What Does A Consultation Look Like?

At Susan The Birth Doula, we believe the doula-client relationship is a partnership. That being said, it's just as important that we get to know you as it is that you get to know us. That begins at our free 45-minute consultation!

We will ask you questions such as, "What kind of birth do you envision?" and "What made you decide to make a doula a part of your birthing journey?" These questions, and others, are to get a good idea about what type of support you are looking for, and if or how we can fill that role. In order for us to have a more productive consultation, please come prepared to discuss your questions, concerns, or anything that you researched or thought was cool! Let us know if there are any classes you've taken or even things that you've heard from family or friends that scared you a bit. These are all things that will give us insight into how we can best serve you and if we are a good match!

Consultations are also a great time to ask questions! If you have any concerns that you haven't gotten answers to, this is the perfect time to get those answers. Ask us about our training, education, and experience! Ask us about our passions. Ask us about our role at your birth. Ask us any question that would give you everything that you need to decide whether we're a good fit for you and your family. Not sure what to ask? Here's a list of common questions below just in case you need some inspiration, but you are absolutely not limited to these!

Questions to ask:

• What is your philosophy about childbirth?
• How do you support women and their partners during labor?
• How do you support women before and after childbirth?
• What experience do you have? Do you have experience related to my specific circumstances (as in a VBAC, twins, etc)?

• Have you previously attended a birth at the hospital/center that I'm using?

• What coping techniques are you familiar with? Are you familiar with the method that I am using (Bradley, Hypnobirthing, etc)?

• How do you handle births when things do not go as planned?

• What kind of breastfeeding support can you provide?
• Tell me about your best experience as a doula. Tell me about your worst experience as a doula.

Questions to ask yourself:

• Do I feel at ease with this doula?

• Are they knowledgeable?
• Do I like their personalities?
• Do they communicate well? Listen? Support my choices?

Our hope is that after 45 minutes of chatting you will find that Susan The Birth Doula is the right doula for you and your family! If you would like us to be a part of your birthing journey the next step is to secure your due date on our calendar by reviewing and signing the Doula Agreement and submitting your deposit. From there, we will schedule your first appointment!

Note: Rescheduling & Cancellation Terms

Rescheduling: You may request to reschedule a consultation without penalty by notifying Susan The Birth Doula at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the scheduled time. The doula will contact you to reschedule your consultation. If you request to reschedule a consultation less than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the scheduled time, you will be assessed a rescheduling fee of $25.00, the equivalent of a 15-minute consultation with the doula.

Cancellation: You may cancel a consultation by notifying Susan The Birth Doula at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the scheduled time. You will not be penalized in any way for cancellation requests made more than twenty-four (24) hours in advance. If you cancel a scheduled consultation less than twenty-four (24) hours in advance, you will be assessed a rescheduling fee of $50.00, the equivalent of a 30-minute consultation with the doula.

No Show/Late Fee: If you do not cancel or reschedule your consultation or if you are more than 15 minutes late, it will result in the assessment of a no-show fee of $75.00 before being able to reschedule another consultation.