Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the name Madriella come from?
The name Madriella is Latin, it means "Beautiful Mother".
How long has Madriella been Certifying Doulas?
The program began in 2006 as a Doula Certification Continuing Education Class that was offered at Golden State Massage School, a school of Massage Therapy in Turlock, California.
It is now offered for free with the purchase of the continuing education course Massage for the Laboring Woman, offered by the Somatic Arts and Sciences Institute, which owns this program.
Is Madriella a Vocational School?
No, Madriella is an avocational program and is included with an online continuing education course for adults, much like CPR, Lamaze, the Bradley Method of Birthing, etc.
How much does it cost to take this course?
The Madriella Doula Certification Program is FREE, but we do charge $50 for the Massage Therapy continuing education course that comes with it.
Is my Certification good everywhere?
Yes, the Madriella Certification is good in all fifty states. Remember that doulas are not medical professionals, they are non-medical in nature and therefore are not regulated by any licensing boards. ANY WOMAN can be a doula.
How long does it take to get my Certification?
This is a difficult question to answer, since much of the program is self paced.
All eleven of the courses must be completed before the certification can be awarded. At the end of each module is an online test.
We have had students finish the entire program in two weeks, others take months. There is no time limit, once you are enrolled you can take as long as you want to finish the program.
Does my Certification expire?
No, your Certification does not expire.
Once you know how to support a woman during birth you know it forever, there is no recertification process. We do encourage our Doulas to stay current on birth procedures so they can share the information, but there is no recertification.
How much can do Doulas earn?
That is a tough question, many do not charge at all for the service. The Doulas that do charge on average about $300-$400 per birth. As most of the Doulas we certify are Massage Therapists many of them just charge their regular rates.
How do Doulas get paid?
Most Doulas are self employed and are paid by the mother, or the mothers family.
Some are employed by Hospitals and Birthing Centers, and they are paid as any other employee would be.
A Madriella Certificate does make you eligible for applying for a National Provider number (NPI) that makes it possible for you to bill insurance.
Do I have to have given birth myself to be a Doula?
No. Madriella does not require all applicants to be mothers themselves, but traditionally Doulas that have given birth themselves carry more credibility. But if you have never given birth and you desire to be a part of this magical experience there is no reason why you can not.
Where can I get a job as a Doula?
The vast majority of Doulas are self-employed, but hospitals and birthing centers around the country employ Doulas in their labor and delivery rooms.
Many Alternative Medicine Clinics are offering Doula services now, as well as Massage Clinics and Wellness Centers.
What happens when I order the Course?
When you purchase the Massage for the Laboring Woman continuing education course we receive your order and begin setting up your account with the Somatic Arts and Sciences Institute. Within 24 hours you will receive a confirmation email containing a student ID number and link to the download page.
What if I fail a test?
If you fail a test you will receive a failure notice, and you may take that test again. You are allowed to retake a test up to three times.
