POSTION SUMMARY:

As a doula specializing in pregnant and postpartum individuals with opiate and/or substance use disorders, you will provide comprehensive, compassionate support throughout the pregnancy and postpartum periods. Your role will be essential in helping individuals manage their health, navigate the challenges associated with substance use, and ensure a positive and supportive birth and recovery experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide Emotional and Physical Support: Offer continuous emotional, informational, and physical support to pregnant and postpartum individuals, focusing on their specific needs related to substance use and recovery.
• Assist with Birth Planning: Support participants in creating and understanding their birth plans, addressing any concerns related to substance use, and ensuring their preferences are communicated with their healthcare providers.
• Appointments: Attend prenatal appointments, provide continuous labor support, facilitate communication with healthcare providers, and manage emergencies calmly.
• Advocate for Participant: Act as an advocate for participants within the healthcare system and ensure their needs and preferences are respected and that they have access to appropriate medical and substance use treatment.
• Facilitate Access to Resources: Help participants connect with resources and services such as prenatal care, substance use treatment programs, mental health support, and parenting classes.
• Support Postpartum Recovery: Provide guidance and support during the postpartum period, assisting with breastfeeding, infant care, and managing the physical and emotional aspects of recovery from substance use.
• Promote Wellness and Recovery: Encourage and assist participants in developing healthy habits and recovery strategies that support their overall wellbeing and long-term recovery goals.
• Document and Report: Maintain accurate and confidential records of participant interactions and progress and provide regular updates to relevant healthcare providers as needed.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Training: Specialized training or experience in supporting individuals with substance use disorders.
• Must be comfortable: With present and/or past substance use challenges being known by colleagues and the people served.

• Lived Experience: Personal experience with opiate or substance uses disorders, especially during pregnancy or postpartum, is beneficial.
• Empathy and Compassion: Demonstrated ability to provide empathetic and non-judgmental support to participants facing substance use challenges.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships and work effectively with diverse participants and healthcare providers.
• Knowledge of Resources: Familiarity with resources and services related to substance use treatment, prenatal and postpartum care, and parenting support.
• Commitment to Wellness: A genuine commitment to promoting the health, recovery, and wellbeing of participants through supportive and holistic care.

High School Diploma or GED

EXPERIENCE:

• Work Towards Certification as a Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS)

• Work Towards Doula Certification

• Must have valid Driver’s Licenses