Why Choose BEST?
Choosing a training organization is the first major business decision you will make as a doula. While "legacy" organizations have been around for decades, the world of birth work has changed. Today’s doulas need more than just labor support skills; they need a modern, inclusive, and sustainable business model.
At BEST, we’ve stripped away the unnecessary red tape and hidden costs that often stall new careers. We believe your training should meet the highest standards of excellence while keeping you connected to the most current evidence-based practices.
When you choose BEST, you are choosing:
Simple Certification: A streamlined process to reach your certification goals.
Business Mastery: We don’t just teach you how to support a birth; we teach you how to build a profitable, sustainable career from day one.
Modern Inclusivity: A curriculum built for the 21st century, focusing on trauma-informed care and diverse family support.
On going mentorship: Access to mentorship, business tools and a network of peers that lasts long after your workshop ends.
Frequently Asked Questions: Comparing BEST to Legacy Trainings
How does BEST Doula Training compare to legacy organizations like DONA or CAPPA?
Unlike legacy organizations that often focus heavily on paperwork and re-certification, BEST Doula Training offers a modern, comprehensive approach. We prioritize evidence-based support, business sustainability, and a streamlined certification process designed for the modern birth worker.
Is business training included in the BEST Doula curriculum?
Yes. While many older organizations focus strictly on the labor support aspect, BEST integrates robust business and marketing training. We ensure that our doulas are not only prepared for the birth room but are also equipped to run a profitable and sustainable business from day one.
Are there hidden costs or extra requirements for certification with BEST?
We pride ourselves on transparency. Unlike some legacy programs that require separate fees for memberships, manuals, and specific workshops, BEST provides a clear, inclusive path to certification without the hidden hurdles.
How does the BEST curriculum differ from the traditional curriculum found in programs like DONA or CAPPA?
While legacy organizations often follow a rigid, traditional model, BEST Doula Training focuses on a curriculum that is both inclusive and modern. We prioritize topics like trauma-informed care, supporting diverse family structures, and full-spectrum support—areas that are often missing or treated as electives in older programs.
How long does it take to get certified with BEST compared to legacy programs?
The path to certification with legacy organizations can often be a multi-year journey filled with paperwork and observation hurdles. BEST simplifies this. Our training is intensive and high-impact, allowing you to move through your requirements efficiently so you can start serving families and earning an income sooner without sacrificing the quality of your education. Most doulas get certified within a month.
What kind of ongoing support does BEST provide compared to older organizations?
Legacy programs often leave you on your own once the workshop is over, or require a fee to stay in their directory. BEST offers ongoing mentorship with direct access to trainers and a thriving network of peers for ongoing mentorship, ensuring you never feel alone in your business or the birth room.
Is BEST Doula Training a nationally recognized certification program?
Yes. BEST Doula Training is recognized in all 50 U.S. states and internationally. We uphold the highest standards for evidence-based practice and professional ethics. Our certification meets or exceeds the core competencies established by other leading national organizations, but with a modern, business-focused approach.
How does BEST compare to older certification models like DONA or CAPPA?
BEST is built for the modern doula business owner. While older organizations focus heavily on a volunteer/community model, BEST integrates comprehensive, evidence-based clinical knowledge with essential business, marketing, and client acquisition skills. Our curriculum is current, efficient, and designed to help you launch a profitable, sustainable practice, not just get a certificate.
Does BEST Doula Training require me to attend a specific number of "certification births"?
No. BEST understands that strict certification birth requirements often cause unnecessary stress and can be a barrier for doulas in rural areas or those with strict personal schedules. Most organizations that do require these certification births make doulas get a doctor or nurse’s evaluation as part of their certification - a throw back patriarchal requirement we want to have nothing to do with. Doctors and nurses are fantastic resources for our clients, but they are not doulas and are in no position to evaluate our work. We prioritize quality of education and skill mastery over simply checking an old school box.
How can I be confident that BEST certification leads to real-world success?
Our track record speaks for itself. BEST Certified Doulas are market leaders across the country. We teach you the systems that work, leading to high client satisfaction and career longevity.
Is BEST Doula Training offered online or in-person?
Both. BEST offers flexible options including dynamic, hands-on, in-person workshops across the country. Birth doula is offered once a month and this training can be attended online or in-person. The online class is live and interactive, just like you are there with us (because you are!). You select on the registration form if you will be joining us in person or virtually.
What is included in the BEST certification fee that other programs charge extra for?
Unlike many programs that have hidden costs, BEST's fee is comprehensive. We do not have packets that you purchase and we do not have extra membership fees. In fact you won’t have to purchase any additional classes. We provide you with a comprehensive childbirth and lactation class (streamed) and of course you get your business training in your workshop. You also receive immediate mentorship and support groups. We focus on providing maximum value upfront, ensuring no costly surprises.