JOB SUMMARY
The Doula provides non-clinical emotional, educational, and physical support to pregnant participants enrolled in the PWDC program. This role helps mothers prepare for childbirth, navigate the labor and delivery process, and adjust to the postpartum period.
The Doula works closely with program staff including clinicians, case managers, peer recovery specialists, and lactation consultants to ensure mothers receive coordinated support throughout pregnancy and early parenthood.
Services may be delivered in community settings, healthcare facilities, or participant homes depending on program needs.
JOB DUTIES
Prenatal Education and Preparation
- Provide prenatal education to program participants regarding pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery.
- Educate mothers on birth preparation, coping techniques, and childbirth expectations.
- Assist mothers in developing birth plans and preparing for delivery.
Labor and Delivery Support
- Provide emotional and physical support to mothers during labor and childbirth when possible.
- Assist mothers in utilizing comfort techniques such as breathing exercises, positioning, and relaxation strategies.
- Advocate for mothers and help facilitate communication with healthcare providers when appropriate.
Postpartum Support
- Provide postpartum follow-up visits to support maternal recovery and adjustment to caring for a newborn.
- Educate mothers on newborn care, maternal health, and postpartum wellness.
- Provide guidance on infant feeding and refer participants to lactation services when appropriate.
Care Coordination
- Collaborate with clinicians, case managers, and other program staff to support participant needs.
- Connect mothers with additional maternal health or community resources when needed.
Documentation and Compliance
- Maintain accurate documentation of services provided to program participants.
- Ensure documentation complies with organizational and program standards.
QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Certification as a Doula or childbirth educator preferred.
- Experience supporting pregnant women during pregnancy, labor, or postpartum periods preferred.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations including women experiencing behavioral health or recovery challenges preferred.
- Experience providing prenatal education or childbirth preparation support• Knowledge of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery.
- Ability to provide emotional support and encouragement during labor and delivery
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to build trusting relationships with program participants.
- Valid Illinois Driver’s license.
- Reliable transportation for community travel, hospital visits, and home visits when required.
SMART GOALS
- Provide prenatal education and childbirth preparation sessions for 100% of assigned pregnant participants.
- Provide labor and delivery support when possible and appropriate for program participants.
- Conduct postpartum follow-up visits with mothers within two weeks after delivery when applicable.
- Maintain 90% compliance with documentation requirements and timelines.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to travel within the community and to healthcare facilities for prenatal visits and childbirth support.
- Ability to stand or remain active for extended periods during labor support.
- Ability to sit for extended periods during education sessions and documentation.
- Ability to lift and carry materials or supplies weighing up to 15 pounds.
- Ability to communicate effectively with participants, healthcare providers, and program staff.
BENEFITS & COMPENSATION
Hourly Rate: $ 23.08
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 403(b) Retirement Plan with Employer Contributions
- Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays
- Life Insurance & Disability Coverage
- Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Opportunities
- Wellness Programs & Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Occupational Risk for Exposure to TB:
There is an occupational risk for exposure to TB, as this position involves extensive community and patient contact. Employees in this role are required to comply with annual TB testing as part of workplace health and safety protocols. The only acceptable exceptions to this requirement are documented medical contraindications or religious objections. Employees who decline TB testing will be required to wear a mask when deemed necessary.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Friend Health – HRDI is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, marital or parental status, sexual orientation including gender identity, gender expression, military discharge status, physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by law. In addition, Friend Health – HRDI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process). Friend Health - HRDI supports the Pay Transparency Law as an equal opportunity employer.
Join Our Team!
Friend Health – HRDI is committed to improving maternal and child health outcomes through compassionate, comprehensive care and support services. The Pregnant Women with Dependent Children (PWDC) Program supports pregnant and parenting women experiencing substance use disorders by providing treatment services, parenting education, and coordinated care that promotes recovery, family stability, and healthy pregnancies.
We are seeking a compassionate Doula who is passionate about supporting women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. In this role, you will provide prenatal education, emotional support during labor and delivery, and postpartum guidance that empowers mothers and promotes positive birth outcomes.