A new approach to support the dying and their families is emerging: one that uses a new type of caregiver, called an end-of-life doula or death doula, who acts as a guide and coach to a dying patient and family. These doulas help a dying person and loved ones create life legacies, use guided imagery, ritual, touch, and music to bring deeper meaning and greater comfort to the dying process.

The International End of Life Doula Association (INELDA) is offering doula training on September 18-20, 2015 in Secaucus, NJ. The 22-hour training involves learning how to be a deep, active listener, how to create and conduct guided imagery sessions, how to help a dying person and family plan for the atmosphere around the bedside, as well as how to use touch, holding of the patient, music and readings. Students will learn how to help a dying person examine the meaning in their life and create a concrete legacy that expresses this meaning in a way that helps family reconnect with them. Ultimately the training is about understanding and living the spirit of what it means to be a death doula.

Students work in pairs or groups at times, practicing the techniques they’re learning in the class. It is a powerful, intense training that will leave you profoundly changed. Preregistration is required. Visit INELDA.org to register or call 201.419.2845.