Birth & Diversity Doula Training
A culturally grounded, community-driven doula training program in Cook County.
The program
NDoula’s Birth & Diversity Doula Training is a comprehensive program designed to increase the number of trained doulas in Cook County, particularly Black/African American, Spanish-speaking, and other underrepresented birthworkers. The program addresses disparities in maternal and infant health by centering culturally responsive, community-led care.
Who this is for
This program is for individuals in Cook County who feel called to support birthing people in their communities, especially those often left out of traditional birthwork spaces.
We focus on recruiting and training:
- Black/African American doulas
- Spanish-speaking doulas
- Doulas from historically marginalized communities
What you’ll learn
Participants engage in a robust curriculum that combines traditional birthwork wisdom with modern, evidence-based training. Topics include:

- Anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and birth
- Emotional and mental health support
- Childbirth education techniques
- Systemic and environmental impacts on birth
- Practical skills for labor, delivery, and postpartum transitions
- Advocacy skills for navigating healthcare systems
Program outcomes
This program brings birthwork into everyday community life, helping people build the confidence and skills to support themselves, their loved ones, and their communities during the birthing journey.
Participants will gain:
- A strong understanding of the birthing process
- Knowledge of how to offer culturally relevant care
- Practical, hands-on skills
- Experience working directly in the field
- An understanding of how to challenge systemic barriers
The ultimate goal is to grow a self-sustaining network of doulas who support their communities, expand birthing options and autonomy, and reclaim birth as a sacred, community-centered experience.
Illinois Medicaid Reimbursement Eligible Training Program
Doulas who complete this training can apply to become an Illinois Medicaid-Certified Doula through the Training Pathway, which is managed by the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine’s Office of Certification Strategies, which works with the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.