Frequently Asked Questions

You do not have to meet any particular criteria to collaborate with a death doula. In fact, we prefer to start earlier than later. If you (or someone you love) receives a life limiting or “terminal” diagnosis, even if the prognosis is years, we welcome you to reach out whenever you feel ready to start the conversations and planning, as well as forge our unique relationship. But folks without known diagnoses are also working with death doulas to create advance directives and facilitate challenging conversations, as well as to manage death anxiety. If you have an idea about how someone with our background might be of use to you … you’re probably correct. Reach out and let’s work together.  

Yes – doulas are supplementary and complementary support. Anyone who has had a loved one on hospice knows that the number of hours of care is often quite limited due to staffing, budgeting, needs assessment. Doulas often work alongside hospice.

Doulas work with individuals at all life stages, but can also be called at any stage of the end-of-life process. Sooner is better! We do not have the criteria that hospice does, and can begin vital discussions at any time in one's illness.

Doula services are sometimes free – many organizations do sliding scale pricing and some hospices offer doulas as part of their offerings. Doulas are usually volunteers when part of a hospice, though often it is social worker who coordinates and provides training. Doula services are not currently billable through insurance. Average cost for a family ranges from $1,500-$4,000 depending on number of services provided and how many hours are worked. 

Wherever we are welcomed. In terms of geographic area, the doulas of OKCEOLD practice primarily in OKC Metro Area We prefer to travel an hour or less because that keeps us accessible to you! Please note that we may charge for commute time, but this will be discussed in our consultation.