Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Death Doula?
A death doula is a non-medical professional who provides comfort and support to a dying person and their loved ones.
Why might I hire a Death Doula?
There are many reasons you may wish to hire a death doula. Stephanie can help with advance care planning, education about the dying process, legacy work/life review, vigil support, and initial bereavement support. Doulas vary in their focus and expertise, so it is important to find a doula that best supports your unique end of life wishes.
Most people seek end of life services when they have received a terminal diagnosis or are approaching end of life and wish to receive guidance, education, and support. However, Awakened Endings invites people in any life stage to work with a death doula as an opportunity to explore their relationship with death.
Does Awakened Endings provide medical care?
No. Death doulas are non-medical professionals and therefore are not licensed or protected to provide any type of medical care. Even though Stephanie has a nursing degree, she is considered non-medical in the doula role and therefore cannot legally provide medical care.
Can Awakened Endings work with my hospice agency?
Yes. While Awakened Endings is not employed by your hospice agency, your doula can still act as an ancillary member of your care team. This means she will collaborate with your hospice social worker, nurse, and spiritual counselor to ensure that your end of life wishes and needs are being fulfilled.
Will insurance or Medicare cover Awakened Endings services?
At this time, Death Doulas are not covered by insurance or Medicare. We hope to see this change in the future!