Supporting others is your work. Supporting you is ours.
Membership is about being a part of something bigger. It’s belonging to a community of doulas who understand the work you do and why it matters because we’re living that life too. Here, you’ll find connection, shared knowledge, and lasting support.
Why membership matters
Supporting families through the perinatal time can be deeply meaningful but it can also feel isolating and undervalued.
- DSABC membership is about more than just perks; it’s about belonging to a community that sees your work, uplifts your voice, and shares your values.
- As a member, you gain opportunities to connect with other doulas to learn from one another, share referrals, collaborate, and support each other through the ups and downs of this work. Whether you’re newly trained or have years of experience, you’re part of a collective that advocates for access, equity, and recognition of doula care across BC. Your presence strengthens the movement, and you never have to do this alone.
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Membership Benefits
Joining DSABC means you get practical tools, community connections, and opportunities to grow your doula work.
- Exclusive DSA name tag
- A network of doulas across the province with opportunities to connect and learn, including monthly chats and a private Facebook group
- Opportunity to be featured on our social media channels
- Able to apply to be on our “Find a Doula” list on our website
- Access to virtual continuing education opportunities
- Exclusive membership events or discounted rates for public events
- Access to optional Extended Health Benefits through Greenshield
how to join
All trained doulas and birthworkers in BC are welcome, whatever your area of care
To become a member, you must have attended a doula training of your choice. Certification is not required. All members are asked to agree to our [Code of Ethics] and [Standards of Practice].
When applying as a new member, please provide proof of training. If you were trained through traditional or community-based mentorship, a letter of reference can be submitted instead.
Steps to Join:
- Visit our [Join/Renew] page or click the button below
Fill out the membership form
Upload your training documentation or reference letter
Pay your annual dues
Start accessing your member benefits through the portal.
membership cost
We believe every doula should have access to support, connection, and opportunity.
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Annual Membership $100
Valid from May 1 to April 30, aligned with our fiscal year. We are unable to prorate memberships based on your registration date, but any membership purchased after January 1 will be counted as part of the following year.
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Yearly Renewal $75
Renew in March or April to keep your membership active for the next year. Renew before April 30 to keep the renewal rate — otherwise, a new annual membership is required.
We offer free memberships for those who’ve faced barriers or marginalization, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds. If finances are a challenge, you’re still encouraged to apply. Cost should never prevent you from joining our community. Questions about eligibility or options? Contact us.Â
Your Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some other common questions about memberships and getting involved with the DSA.
Do I need to complete a specific training program to join?
We don’t require membership applicants to have completed a particular training. All training backgrounds are considered. Certification is not required.
Can I join if I’m not currently taking clients?
Yes. Many members are in between clients, focusing on education, or contributing to the community in other ways. You're still welcome here!
How do I get listed in the Find a Doula directory?
Once your membership is approved, you may apply to be included in our public Find a Doula directory. Directory listings are not automatic. Applicants must meet the listing criteria below and submit a separate application.
To be listed, you must:
Complete an approved training course from a recognized trainer
For Birth Doulas: Provide support for three births, with written reflections and observations for each
For Postpartum Doulas: Have provided at least 12 hours of postpartum support for families, with written reflections and observations for each
Submit a narrative statement on the value and purpose of labour and/or postpartum support
Observe a childbirth education series or complete relevant continuing education such as breastfeeding, infant massage, or miscarriage and loss support
Provide a recent Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check
For Postpartum Doulas: Hold a valid CPR-C certificate
When does my membership expire?
Membership runs from May 1 to April 30, aligned with our fiscal year. We don’t prorate, but memberships purchased after January 1 will count toward the following year. You'll receive a reminder when it’s time to renew.
Where do my membership fees go?
Your membership fee supports the day-to-day operations of the DSA, including website maintenance, administrative costs, member support, and upkeep of the Find-a-Doula directory. It also helps fund our advocacy efforts, public education, and community events and workshops. Importantly, your fees allow us to offer waived-fee memberships to individuals who have faced barriers in their lives. Every dollar goes back into supporting our members and building a stronger, more inclusive doula community across BC.
Do you offer free membership for those facing marginalization or hardship?
Yes. We offer free membership to applicants who have experienced barriers, including those marginalized on grounds listed in the BC Human Rights Code — such as race, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or Indigenous identity.
If financial hardship is making it difficult to join, you’re still encouraged to apply. We believe no one should be excluded due to cost.
Can I volunteer with the DSABC?
Absolutely. Volunteers are the heart of our organization, from event planning and advocacy to behind-the-scenes support. We welcome members who want to get involved.
Do I need to be a member to volunteer?
Most volunteer roles are for current members, but if you’re passionate about supporting doulas in BC, reach out as there may be other ways to contribute.
I'm interested in joining the board. What should I know?
Board elections take place annually in the spring at the AGM, though we occasionally have openings throughout the year. If you're curious about serving, reach out to learn more about the roles, expectations, and upcoming openings.Â
I have a specific skill (e.g. social media, grant writing, admin). Can I help?
Yes please! We're always looking for folks with diverse skills to support our mission. Don’t wait for a call, let us know what you’d like to offer.
Can I volunteer to attend births through the DSABC?
At this time, we no longer offer a Volunteer Doula Program due to a lack of funding. We hope to bring it back in the future.
