Deb Dickson walking along a wooden boardwalk surrounded by trees, symbolising guidance, presence, and walking alongside others in end of life care.

FAQs

  • An End of Life Doula (also called a death Doula) is a calm, compassionate support person who walks alongside individuals and families as they navigate the final chapter of life. We don't replace doctors or medical teams – we work alongside them, offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support that honours your values and wishes.

    Our role is to hold space for what matters most – whether that’s easing fear, supporting important conversations, guiding simple rituals, or just being present. Like birth, dying is a deeply human experience. A doula helps soften the journey, reduce isolation, and bring meaning and dignity to the process of dying – for both the individual and their loved ones.

    For more details → About

  • End of Life Doulas are non-medical support people. While hospice and palliative care teams manage medical and clinical needs, doulas offer personal, emotional, and spiritual support.

    We help with:

    • Support to the dying person and their loved ones before, during, and after death.

    • Comfort measures like calming rituals or guided imagery

    • Creating meaningful connections and legacy projects

    We don’t provide medical care, administer medication, or replace the work of doctors and nurses – we complement them.

  • You can invite a doula into your journey at any stage – from the time of diagnosis, during treatment, or as the end of life draws closer. Some people connect with a doula early to help plan and prepare. Others reach out when more hands-on emotional or practical support is needed.

    Whether you need just one conversation or ongoing support, it’s always okay to reach out.

  • I offer a wide range of support, including:

    • Guiding important conversations and care wishes

    • Supporting Advance Care Planning and legacy work

    • Facilitating meaningful rituals

    • Providing gentle sensory comfort and presence

    • Helping keep family connected and informed

    • Liaising with carer and community support

    • Bridging communication with medical teams

    • Assisting with vigils, emotional support, and more

    For full details → Services

  • There are a few clear boundaries to my role:

    • I can’t offer medical or legal advice

    • I can’t provide daily personal care (e.g., showering, shopping, administering medication)

    • I can’t  act as a family mediator or try to resolve long-standing conflicts

    • I can’t make decisions on your behalf

    • I can’t ensure that things turn out exactly as you would have wanted as death, like life, is unpredictable and unique. I do offer presence, compassion, and care every step of the way to help make things turn out the best they could.

  • I’m available:

    • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 9am – 5:30pm ($75/hr)

    • After-hours & weekends: $85/hr

    • Vigil hours are flexible and can be discussed based on your needs.

  • Yes. Many services such as planning, legacy conversations, emotional support, and family meetings, can be offered via Zoom or phone. This is especially helpful for families who are geographically spread out.

  • The first step is a free introductory chat by phone. This gives you a chance to ask questions, share your situation, and see whether working together feels right.

    Get in touch → Contact