Question 1

What is a death doula?

Accepted Answer

A death doula is a non medical support person who offers emotional, spiritual, and practical care before, during, and after death. My role is to walk alongside individuals and their loved ones with presence, clarity, and care, creating space for reflection, planning, and meaningful connection.

Question 2

How is a death doula different from a hospice / palliative care worker?

Accepted Answer

Hospice and palliative care teams are part of the medical system and focus on physical comfort, symptom management, and medical needs at end of life. A death doula provides holistic, non medical support that complements this care, tending to the emotional, spiritual, and relational needs of the dying person and their loved ones.

Question 3

When should I reach out?

Accepted Answer

You do not need to wait until the final days. I can offer support weeks, months, or even years before death through illness, aging, anticipatory grief, or end of life planning. I also work with people who are grieving or navigating major life transitions.

Question 4

Is it too late to contact you for help?

Accepted Answer

No. It is never too late. Whether death is weeks, days, or hours away, I can offer presence and care at any stage of the dying process. I also provide support at the time of death and after.

Question 5

Can I work with you if I'm not dying?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While end of life care is a core part of my work, I also support people through grief, aging, change, and loss in many forms.

Question 6

Where are you located? Do you offer online support?

Accepted Answer

I am based near Bellingen NSW, and offer in person services locally. I also provide online support for certain offerings, including grief companioning, advance care planning, legacy work, and consultation.

Question 7

What happens in the free consultation?

Accepted Answer

It is a 30 minute phone or Zoom call where we can talk about your needs, your questions, and whether we are the right fit for each other. There is no pressure, just a chance to connect.

Question 8

How much do your services cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies depending on the service and duration. You can view my current rates on the Services page or contact me to discuss your needs. I offer a free consultation and hold a limited number of sliding scale places for those in financial hardship.

Question 9

Is your support covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. Because doulas are non medical support providers, our services are not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Working outside the medical system allows for flexibility. I can be with you for a few hours, a full day, or over several days, depending on what feels right.

Question 10

What are some common misconceptions about death?

Accepted Answer

One common misconception is that talking about death is morbid or negative. In reality, these conversations can bring clarity, connection, and peace. Another is the idea that grief follows a set timeline. Grief is deeply personal. It moves in its own rhythm and takes many forms. There is no right way to grieve, only your way.

Question 11

What are my options for what happens to my body after I die?

Accepted Answer

Options vary depending on your location, beliefs, and values. They may include cremation, conventional burial, natural (eco friendly) burial, and in some places, newer methods such as water cremation (aquamation) or body composting. I can help you explore what is available in your area and what aligns with your wishes.

FAQs

This page shares responses to questions I’m often asked about how I support individuals and families through death, dying, and grief. If something you’re wondering isn’t listed, please feel welcome to get in touch.