Support Is...

Photography by: Kate Marie Hellenbeck


Support Is...

Unconditional.
It is Listening…
Not judging and telling your own story.
Support is not offering advice…
It is offering a handkerchief, a touch, a hug…caring.
We are here to help women discover what they are feeling…
Not to make the feelings go away.
We are here to help a woman identify her options…
Not to tell her which options to choose.
We are here to discuss steps with a woman…
Not to take the steps for her.
We are here to help a woman discover her own strength…
Not to rescue her and leave her still vulnerable.
We are here to help a woman discover that she can help herself…
Not to take that responsibility for her.
We are here to help a woman learn to choose…
Not to make it unnecessary for her to make difficult decisions.
- Anonymous

December Doula Social

December 5th, 2009 CTDA doulas gathered for conversation and fun.

We began the night with an in-depth discussion about back up doulas. While all doulas agreed it was rare to miss a client's birth, there are times it happens- because of an emergency, illness, or another client's labor. In this case, back up arrangements are in place. Experienced doulas shared what has worked for them.

We also shared (anonymously) our price range and experience level. This can guide doulas in what to charge in the Austin area.

1-10 births
$0-300
10-20 births
$100-600
20-30
$400-700
30-50 births
$700-800
80+
$700-900

After our Doula Circle, we enjoyed visiting in the warmth of a fire (yes, it was actually that cold). We drank hot cocoa, coffee and wine. All the doulas brought delicious food! We exchanged white elephant gifts- things a doula can use for herself, or with clients. There were wonderful things like chocolate, coffee gift certificates, massage lotion, a watch, and more.

It was a wonderful night and I think we all look forward to the next one!

December Doula Social