Frequently Asked Questions
What is a death doula and what can you help me do?
A Death/End of Life Doula is a person that can provide you and your loved ones non-medical, holistic care and support for your needs and wishes around the end of life. We can be used at any age and stage of life including in advanced age, living with a terminal or chronic illness or those wanting to plan and document their wishes. Examples of what Death Doulas can offer are things like Advanced Care Planning, Celebration of Life planning, Funeral planning, Advocacy work, Practical Support and Care to name a few.
At what stage do I get in touch about working with you?
At any stage, we work with people wanting support around a diagnosis, doing research on different options available to them, right through to the final stages of life and support for the loved ones after death. You can contact me for a free no obligation chat to see if I would be the right person to support you.
Is this service for an individual or a family?
We work with either and both. In most cases there are loved ones that also need understanding, knowledge and care around this time too so support is also available to them.
Are you a certified death doula?
I am a certified Death Doula. I have studied with the Peaceful Presence in the International End of Life Doula Course and am a professional member of the End of Life Doula Alliance Aotearoa (ELDAA) in New Zealand.
Can you help with dealing with the media?
Yes, if that is what is required for a particular situation, I do have media training and can be the family's spokesperson.
Do you work with children?
I can work alongside children to support them. Should there be specific needs and care for children I do have referral options available.
Is this service expensive?
I use an hourly rate depending on what service and care is required. There are also discounted hourly block packages that are usually purchased for convenience.
Is this only for people dying?
No, a Death Doula/End of Life Doula can be used to provide care and support and any age and stage of life.
Can you help with sudden/unexpected death?
Yes, when someone passes away suddenly and unexpectedly there can be other agencies and authorities that families have to deal with. I can help guide families through this difficult time and make sure their wishes and needs are supported.
Video Biographies
How long is the video?
The length of the video will depend and vary. Standard time is 30 minutes to 1 hour, however this could be longer depending on what the client would like.
How is this supplied?
This will be lovingly edited and specially packaged on a USB to download and share with your loved ones for future generations to have as a beautiful keepsake.
Do we have any say in the direction of the conversation?
Absolutely, this is your story. I will be guided by what you want to share and your messages and will facilitate the conversation accordingly.
How long is the filming process?
The filming can also vary depending on if it is one location or multiple. Generally it would be 2 hours.
How quickly can we get the video completed?
This can vary depending on the editing process but usually 2 weeks.
