Commonly Asked Questions
Why should I consider “Advance Planning”?
Planning out your own end-of-life wishes isn’t morbid at all—it’s sensible, grounding, and deeply life-affirming. Research even shows that when a person has a positive, well-planned end-of-life experience, it drastically helps their surviving loved ones manage their grief. In a very real way, planning ahead is a beautiful act of love.
Is a Death Doula the same thing as an End-of-Life Doula?
Yes! They are just different names for the exact same person. Feel free to use whichever term you like—neither will offend me! Personally, I use End-of-Life Doula because “death” only describes a single day. My work is about supporting the whole journey, and I can help you start planning as early and as young as you’d like.
What exactly does an End-of-Life Doula do?
My role is to provide non-medical support, resources, and comfort options to people with life-limiting conditions, or anyone actively planning for the future. Inspired by the traditional birth doula model, my support centers around holding space for a life review, protecting your autonomy, and assisting across three main phases:
• Before Death: Helping you and your inner circle navigate anticipatory grief, explore personal and family history, and ensure your final wishes are clearly documented.
• During the Transition: Holding a supportive, grounding presence to make sure your comfort choices and wishes are fully respected.
• After Death: Helping your loved ones navigate early grief, coordinating immediate body care or home funerals, designing unique legacy ceremonies/eulogies, and connecting them to long-term bereavement resources.
What are my options?
When it comes to dying and death, your choices are truly only limited by your imagination and local laws. Knowing your options is a wonderful gift—if not for yourself, then definitely for the people who will be responsible for your care. I am always happy to help you explore what is possible.
Where are you based, and how far will you travel?
I live just outside of West Cobb in Dallas, GA. My standard driving range is anywhere within 45 minutes of my starting point at 1715 Charles Hardy Pkwy, Dallas, GA 30157. If you find yourself outside of this range, please contact me anyway. If I am unable to work something out with you, I will be happy to refer you to a doula who is closer and may be able to assist.
What supplies or equipment do you provide?
I carry a large, fully stocked doula bag filled with standard items used for comfort and support. If there is something specific that brings you peace or comfort—a certain scent, texture, or tool—just let me know and I am sure we can make arrangements!
What are your qualifications?
I bring a blend of formal education, dedicated training, and inclusive care to my practice:
B.S. in Sociology: Concentrated in Medical Sociology with a deep focus on Death & Dying.
INELDA Trained: Completed my end-of-life doula training with the International End-of-Life Doula Association.
SAGE Care Trained: Specifically trained to understand, protect, and advocate for the unique needs of the LGBTQ2IA+ community.
What are your fees?
Before you pay for anything, I always start with a free 30-minute phone or video consultation so we can chat and make sure we are a great match! If we decide to work together, my rates are:
Virtual Visit: $80 per hour, discounted packages of multiple virtual visits available upon request
Home visit: $130 for a 90-minute session.
Package of five 90-minute home visits: $600
Package of ten 90-minute home visits: $1,125
Kindly note: I ask that all fees are paid prior to our first scheduled appointment.
What if I can’t afford your standard fees?
At The Transition Tree, your well-being matters more than a fixed price point. To guarantee accessible services while ensuring a fair exchange for the dedicated labor provided, I proudly offer a sliding-scale fee structure for clients experiencing financial hardship. Let’s connect and have an open conversation where we find a mutually respectful rate that feels fair and sustainable for the situation.
Can you feed me or help me walk to the bathroom?
No, I cannot. As a doula, my role is strictly focused on non-medical, emotional, and organizational support. While I am happy to do everything I can within my scope, your medical caregivers or family will need to handle all physical mobility, feeding, and medical requirements.
Can you offer me legal advice?
No, I cannot. As a doula, my role is strictly focused on non-legal, informational, and organizational support. While I am happy to do everything I can within my scope, a legal professional will need to handle all of your legal requirements.