Why Choose a 4-Day In-Person Doula Training?

Written By Diksha Berebitsky

In a world where so much has shifted online, it’s easy to be drawn to the convenience of short virtual courses. But when it comes to doula training, something as deeply human, emotional, and hands-on as birthwork, I believe there’s no substitute for an immersive, in-person experience.

As a doula trainer and mentor, I pour my heart into every training I lead. I do it because I love helping new doulas grow into their roles with confidence, skill, and heart. I do it because our birth community deserves doulas who are not only informed but deeply grounded and connected. And I do it because I believe that building relationships with each other, face to face, is part of what makes this work sustainable.

Let’s break it down:

Pros of a 4-Day In-Person Training

  • Deep, uninterrupted focus: Four full days/32 hours, allows for both comprehensiveness and depth. We’re not just skimming the surface, we’re digging into the "why" behind what we do, practicing hands-on comfort techniques, and having meaningful conversations about advocacy, trauma-informed care, and cultural humility.

  • Live demonstration & practice: You get to feel the tools in your hands, try out birth positions on a real body, and ask questions in the moment.

  • Community-building: You’ll bond with your cohort in ways that just don’t happen through a screen. The connections made in training often become the roots of long-term support networks.

  • Mentorship that continues: When we’ve met in person, it’s easier to keep that connection going. I continue to support and cheer on my trainees long after the last day.

  • Immersive experience: Stepping out of your daily routine for four days allows you to fully absorb the experience. Many doulas say it’s transformative, not just educational, but healing.

Cons (that some may consider)

  • Weekend commitment: Two full weekends may still require coordinating schedules, childcare, or other responsibilities. But many find that this rhythm actually supports better integration and reflection between sessions.

  • Travel/commute: You may need to travel to the training location, though many find the retreat-like nature of this a bonus.

Comparing to Shorter or Online Trainings:

Shorter or online trainings can be a great intro or refresher, especially for those already working in related fields. But they may lack:

  • The depth of discussion and nuance needed for the complexity of birthwork

  • The full embodiment of comfort techniques

  • Real-time, relationship-based learning that comes from being in a shared space

Why I/Diksha Train and Mentor Doulas

Because I believe that doulas change lives.
Because I’ve seen firsthand how strong, well-supported doulas create ripple effects in their communities.
Because this work is sacred, it deserves to be taught with care, presence, and integrity.

When we invest in learning together in a room, in real time, we’re not just learning how to support birth. We’re building the kind of community and culture that helps families thrive.

Diksha Berebitsky