simplify your startup

Becoming an NCS or Doula?

Trackers, Checklists, Templates, step-by-steps and more

Understanding Your Path

01.

Doula vs. Newborn Care Specialist: Which Path is Right for You?

We define the responsibilities of birth and postpartum doulas, emphasizing their focus on providing emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers during childbirth and the postpartum period. Additionally, we explore the duties of NCSs, who specialize in hands-on newborn care, including overnight support, sleep conditioning, and feeding assistance. This comprehensive comparison aims to guide you in determining which path aligns best with your passion for supporting new families.

02.

What to Expect as a First-Time Doula or NCS

The article provides insights into the common emotions and scenarios you may encounter in your new role. We discuss feelings such as excitement, nervousness, and imposter syndrome, and offer guidance on adapting to unpredictable schedules and managing client expectations. Understanding these aspects can help you navigate your early experiences with confidence and compassion.

Training & Certification

03.

Training & Certification Programs for Doulas & NCSs

This article delves into the various educational pathways and credentialing options available for these professions. We explore reputable programs, such as those offered by the Newborn Care Training Academy and the Newborn Care Specialist Association, highlighting the importance of specialized training in newborn care, postpartum support, and lactation education. Additionally, we discuss certification processes, including required contact hours and examinations, to guide aspiring professionals in achieving recognized credentials in their field.

04.

Continuing Education for Doulas & NCSs

This article explores various opportunities for professional development. We highlight the importance of staying updated with the latest practices, attending workshops, and obtaining advanced certifications. Engaging in ongoing education not only enriches your knowledge but also demonstrates a commitment to excellence in your field.

05.

Should You Specialize? Choosing a Niche as a Doula or NCS

Here we delve into the benefits of niching down, such as increased visibility, credibility, and personal fulfillment. We provide guidance on identifying your strengths and passions, researching market demand, and seeking feedback to determine the best niche for your practice. Focusing on a specific area allows you to stand out in a competitive field and attract clients seeking particular expertise.

Defining Your Services

06.

What Services Should You Offer as a Doula or NCS?

Here we provide an in-depth look into the core and specialized services these professionals can provide. For Doulas, this includes birth support, postpartum assistance, and specialized care such as bereavement support and trauma-informed care. For NCSs, services encompass overnight newborn care, 24/7 live-in care, and sleep conditioning. Understanding these roles can help you determine which path aligns best with your passion for supporting new families
07.

Day (or Night!) in the Life of a Doula vs. Newborn Care Specialist

This article provides an in-depth comparison of these professions. We explore the unpredictable schedules of birth doulas, who remain on-call to assist during labor and delivery, and the structured shifts of NCSs, who focus on overnight infant care to allow parents to rest. Understanding these distinct roles can help you decide which professional aligns best with your family’s needs or career aspirations.
08.

How to Work with High-Net-Worth Clients as a Doula or NCS

Here we delve into strategies for effectively serving this clientele. We discuss the importance of understanding the specific needs and lifestyles of HNW families, maintaining confidentiality, and delivering exceptional service. Additionally, we explore how to position your services to appeal to this demographic, ensuring a successful and respectful partnership.

Business Setup & Legal Essentials

09.

How to Legally Set Up Your Birth Work or NCS Business

We offer a comprehensive guide on the essential steps to legally structure your practice. We discuss the importance of selecting an appropriate business structure, such as a sole proprietorship or limited liability company (LLC), and obtaining necessary licenses and permits relevant to your services and location. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of drafting clear client service agreements or contracts, which outline the scope of services, fees, confidentiality clauses, and liability considerations. Implementing these foundational elements not only ensures legal compliance but also establishes trust and clarity with your clients, paving the way for a successful and reputable practice. ​
10.

Doula & NCS Business Plan Template: Step-by-Step Guide

​Creating a comprehensive business plan is a pivotal step for Doulas and Newborn Care Specialists (NCS) aiming to establish and grow their practices. Our article, “Doula & NCS Business Plan Template: Step-by-Step Guide,” provides a detailed framework to assist you in this process. We cover essential components such as defining your services, conducting market research, developing marketing strategies, and financial planning. Utilizing this guide can help you create a structured plan that serves as a roadmap for your business’s success.
11.

How to Use Contracts & Invoices in Your Birth Work Business

​Establishing clear contracts and invoicing practices is essential for Doulas and Newborn Care Specialists (NCS) to maintain professionalism and protect their businesses. Here we delve into the importance of these tools in setting expectations, ensuring timely payments, and mitigating legal risks. We provide guidance on drafting comprehensive contracts that outline the scope of services, payment terms, and cancellation policies, as well as implementing efficient invoicing systems to streamline financial transactions. Implementing these practices fosters transparency and trust with clients, contributing to a successful and sustainable birth work business.

Pricing & Client Contracts

12.

How to Set Your Rates as a Doula or NCS

This article, “Setting Your Rates as a Doula or NCS,” delves into key considerations such as experience, location, certifications, and the scope of services offered. We provide insights into industry standards and offer guidance on structuring your fees effectively. Understanding these elements is crucial for establishing a successful and sustainable practice.
13.

Doula & NCS Contracts: What to Include to Protect Yourself

Here we emphasize the importance of detailed service agreements that outline the scope of services, payment terms, cancellation policies, and confidentiality clauses. We also discuss the necessity of liability insurance to safeguard against potential legal issues. Implementing these protective measures ensures a professional relationship built on transparency and trust.​
14.

How to Write a Birth Plan (And Help Clients Create Theirs)

Here we provide comprehensive guidance on crafting a personalized plan that reflects your desires for the childbirth experience. We cover essential elements to consider, such as your choice of birth setting, preferred pain management techniques, desired support persons, and any cultural or personal considerations. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of flexibility, acknowledging that unforeseen circumstances may require adjustments to your plan.

Marketing & Branding

15.

How to Market Yourself as a Birth Worker or NCS

Here ee emphasize the importance of establishing a strong brand identity, including selecting a memorable business name and logo, and defining your mission statement and brand voice. Building a professional online presence is crucial; we discuss setting up a user-friendly website that showcases your services, testimonials, and contact information. Additionally, we explore leveraging social media platforms to engage with your target audience and share valuable content. Networking with local healthcare providers and participating in community events are also highlighted as effective methods to expand your reach and attract potential clients.
16.

How to Build a Doula or NCS Website That Attracts Clients

Here we offer comprehensive guidance on this topic. We emphasize the importance of developing a unique and consistent brand identity, showcasing your experience and credentials, and leveraging client testimonials to build trust. Additionally, we discuss strategies for defining clear calls to action, making contact information easily accessible, and utilizing high-quality visuals to tell your agency’s story. Implementing these elements can significantly enhance your online presence and appeal to prospective clients. ​
17.

Social Media Content Ideas for Doulas & NCSs

Here we offer practical suggestions to enhance your online presence. We emphasize sharing educational posts, personal stories, client testimonials, interactive content, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Implementing these strategies can help you build a trustworthy and relatable brand, attracting and retaining clients in your birth work practice.

Finding Clients & Networking

18.

How to Get Your First Clients as a Doula or NCS

This article offers practical strategies to help you launch your practice successfully. We emphasize the importance of networking within your community, leveraging social media platforms, and collaborating with local healthcare providers to establish your presence. Additionally, we discuss the benefits of offering workshops and joining professional organizations to enhance credibility. Implementing these approaches can set the foundation for a thriving career in birth work.
19.

The Best Client Management Tools for Doulas & NCSs

We explore various software solutions tailored to the unique needs of birth professionals. We discuss platforms like Enginehire, which offers features such as client tracking, scheduling, and payment processing, and Doulado, an app designed specifically for doulas to manage client relationships and administrative tasks. Additionally, we highlight customizable templates available on platforms like Etsy, which can assist in client tracking and budgeting. Implementing these tools can streamline your workflow, enhance client communication, and allow you to focus more on providing exceptional care.​
20.

How to Stand Out in a Competitive Birth Work Market

Here we offer strategies to enhance your professional presence and appeal. We emphasize the importance of specializing your services to cater to specific client needs, building a strong personal brand that reflects your unique values and skills, and continuously engaging in professional development to stay abreast of the latest practices. Implementing these approaches can significantly elevate your practice in a crowded marketplace.

Growth & Work-Life Balance

21.

Self-Care & Burnout Prevention

Here we delve into practical strategies tailored for birth professionals. We emphasize the importance of recognizing early signs of burnout, such as emotional exhaustion and detachment, and offer actionable tips to address them. These include setting realistic boundaries, engaging in regular physical activity, seeking peer support, and dedicating time to personal hobbies. Implementing these self-care practices ensures a sustainable and fulfilling career in birth work.
22.

How to Scale Your Birth Work or NCS Business

​Our article, “How to Scale Your Birth Work or NCS Business,” explores strategies such as expanding your services to include postpartum coaching, sleep training consultation, lactation support, virtual consultations, and group classes or workshops. We also discuss the importance of hiring and team building, including subcontracting or hiring assistants, to manage a growing client base effectively. Implementing these approaches can enhance your impact and ensure the long-term success of your practice.
23.

The Biggest Challenges New Doulas & NCSs Face

Here we delve into common obstacles such as establishing credibility, managing unpredictable schedules, and setting appropriate boundaries with clients. We offer practical strategies to address these issues, including pursuing continuous education, implementing effective time-management techniques, and maintaining clear professional boundaries. Understanding and preparing for these challenges can empower you to build a resilient and successful career in birth work.​
24.

How to Set Boundaries with Clients While Providing Exceptional Care

This article delves into effective strategies for defining and communicating these boundaries. We emphasize the importance of outlining your availability, scope of services, and response times in a detailed client agreement. Additionally, we discuss the necessity of self-care and the ability to say “no” to unreasonable requests to prevent burnout. Implementing these practices ensures a healthy and sustainable working relationship with clients. ​

Resources

01.

NCS/Doula Contract

A professional contract template to set clear terms with clients.
02.

Business Startup Checklist

Clear Step-by-step guide to launching your birth work business.

03.

Expense Tracker

Keep track of your business expenses for better financial management.
04.

Photo Release Template

Protect client privacy with a customizable photo release form.

05.

Client Reference Form

Collect and manage client feedback to boost credibility.

06.

Separation Agreement

Ensure smooth transitions with a clear contract for ending services.
07.

Email Templates

Pre-written email scripts for professional client communication.

08.

Premium NCS Resume

A polished resume template tailored for newborn care specialists.

09.

Tax / Expense Organizer

Stay tax-ready with this easy-to-use business expense log.
10.

Tax Write-Off Checklist

Maximize deductions with this list of common write-offs.
11.

Certificate Tracker

Organize and track your certifications and renewals in one place.
12.

Client Intake Form

Capture key client details in an easy-to-use form.
13.

Verifiable Hours Tracker

Log work hours, track services, and secure client verification for records.
14.

Subscription & Membership Tracker

Manage dues for subscriptions and memberships

15.

Mentorship & Shadowing Hours Log

Track hands-on learning hours for certification.
16.

Client Tracker

Store client contacts, key dates, addresses, etc. for easy access.

iNNTD Entry

The true resource for Newborn Care Specialists, Night Nannies, and Birth Workers.

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