Doulas are non-medical companions for End of Life Care. They offer guidance, education, and physical, emotional, mental and spiritual support throughout the dying journey.

Doulas have received specialized training in navigating the unique issues that come up at the end of life or for those living with long-term and/or complex medical challenges.

Doulas are a complement to your medical team, and do not offer or provide medical advice or medical care. Doulas can assist with: end-of-life planning (advanced directives, medical power of attorney, end of life wishes), vigil planning (how do you want your last hours to look and feel?), legacy projects, life review processing, education and preparation for the dying process, after body care, support for loved ones, grief work, rituals, and peaceful presence, advocacy and coordination during the vigil.

Learn more at https://inelda.org/about-doulas/what-is-a-doula

Hiring a doula is an investment in your well-being or the well-being of your loved ones. There can be light in the darkness, softness in the most harsh night; I would love to come alongside you so that you do not have to do this alone.

Hospice care is a phenomenal service available that involves a collaborative care team consisting of doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers. In the United States, the parameters of hospice care are primarily shaped by the practices of the Medicare system and other health insurance providers, offering coverage for patients with terminal illnesses expected to live six months or less.

An end-of-life doula does not replace hospice care but serves as a complementary support. Doulas often engage with clients well before they may qualify for hospice admission. Doulas are also often brought in at the same time hospice begins, coming alongside as part of the crucial team of care supporting an individual and their family.

Many individuals hire doulas to address gaps in hospice services, as doulas specialize in providing non-medical support, and offer many services that hospices can not. Unlike hospice, we do not accept Medicare or other insurance, freeing us from strict timelines and limitations on visit frequency and duration. Many people who currently work for hospice, that came into the field because they deeply care for people, are frustrated because they can not spend the kind of time with patients that they would like to, due to restraints from Medicare billing. The flexibility doulas have allow us to offer personalized and extended support to individuals navigating the complexities of their end-of-life journey.

Clients and families who have worked with doulas have expressed how vital the companionship, support and guidance a doula brought was towards creating the “good death” they or their loved one desired.

Being present for the death of my father-in-law was one of the most powerful and profound experiences of my life. The time unfolded as one of the holiest I have ever experienced, where the boundary between this world and whatever lies beyond became a thin veil. In those sacred moments, there was an overwhelming sense of love that completely filled the room, leaving little space for anything else.

As I stood alongside my husband, his mother, and siblings, offering support during this heart wrenching moment, I noticed I was comfortable in a way that no one else in the room was. I became acutely aware of the importance of compassionate companionship during such poignant moments. I saw firsthand the significance of providing solace, understanding, and a steady presence to those navigating these tender moments.

It was in that space, where the profound fragility of life met the enduring power of love, that I recognized a calling within myself. I wanted to extend that support to others facing the difficulty and devastation that can come when saying good-bye.

In the wake of this transformative experience, I discovered a profound sense of purpose, recognizing the beauty in guiding others through the challenging terrain of loss and the end of life. Channeling the love I experienced, it has been my joy and honor to walk with clients and their families through their own “Softest Night.”

Navigating the challenging decisions that arise at the end of life is a universal experience. For many, becoming informed about available options and resources provides a valuable sense of control, during a time when so much is out of one’s control. Open and honest discussions play a pivotal role in ensuring informed decision-making. Laura can help facilitate these crucial conversations, fostering dialogue between you, your loved ones, and healthcare providers, to ensure your wishes are clearly understood and respected.

I have received specialized training through the American Clinician’s Academy on Medical Aid in Dying (https://www.acamaid.org/), the leading institution for MAiD policy and practice in the USA. She has been honored to support clients through the preparation for MAiD and VSED and as a bedside attendant for this sacred choice.

I acknowledge and respect all cultural beliefs and religious and spiritual affiliations. It is an important, vital piece of you. My doula work is tailored specifically to you and your needs, to who you are. All of you is welcome and celebrated and honored.

Many of my clients do not identify as a member of a specific religion, nor even adhere to a spiritual practice. As they approach the end of life, most people discover they have spiritual needs to attend to. All lives have meaning, and it is an honor to support my clients as they uncover that meaning and examine their legacy.

Doulas provide non-medical emotional and spiritual support to our clients, but we do not impose our own religious views and spiritual practices on our clients. We meet our clients where they are, listening for their needs. We work with you to create your own meaning.

If requested, Laura will lead ceremonies of your choosing to mark important moments, or help you choose a ritual that is meaningful to you. Some clients will decide to turn to their own faith leaders and community to meet their spiritual needs, reserving a doula’s help for non-spiritual tasks.

Will there be prayer? Meditation? Poetry? Crystals? Reverence? Irreverence? That’s up to the client. It’s your journey, not mine.

I offer a free 30-minute consultation for prospective clients. If we then agree we’re a good match, you can pay at the hourly rate, or go with a package based on your wants and needs. Doulas do not accept any insurance, Medicaid or Medicare.

Interested in learning more? Schedule a consultation now. (link)

I serve in-person the Greater Boulder and Front Range area, including the towns of Boulder, Louisville, Lafayette, Longmont, Superior, Broomfield, Erie, Lyons, Frederick, Dacona, Niwot, Gunbarrel, and Firestone.

Many services (such as advance care planning, life review and emotional support) can be offered remotely, and I’m happy to set that up.

I completed training through the International End of Life Doula Association (INELDA), which is recognized by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO).

I also attended the University of Vermont’s Larner College of Medicine, where I earned an End of Life Doula Professional Certificate.

I have received hands-on care training and experience through volunteering with TRU Community Care, one of the oldest hospices in the country.

I have received additional specialized training in: Comfort Touch Acupressure Therapy, Medical Aid in Dying, Dignity Therapy, and Dementia Care.