Doula Training

The doula model is built on unconditional positive regard. Francesca embodied that principle in her interactions with us. She encouraged introspection, reflection and careful consideration when content was difficult. She taught with a “doula heart” and personified the qualities of a true companion on the path. It seemed there was a wide range of experience and aptitude among students, and Francesca honored and respected our differences, helping us all feel welcome and efficacious. -S.F.

Published by Francesca Lynn Arnoldy

Francesca Lynn Arnoldy, Community Doula and Death Literacy Advocate, is the author of MAP OF MEMORY LANE (a picture book) and CULTIVATING THE DOULA HEART: ESSENTIALS OF COMPASSIONATE CARE (a doula guidebook) and the forthcoming workbook, THE DEATH DOULA'S GUIDE TO LIVING FULLY AND DYING PREPARED. She is a researcher with the Vermont Conversation Lab and was the original creator of the highly popular doula trainings at the University of Vermont. A self-proclaimed “recovering perfectionist,” Francesca regularly tosses herself into thrilling, often terrifying challenges of unknowns like writing, teaching, parenting, and a number of other random tasks for which she’s entirely untrained. She lives in quaint Hinesburg, VT with her family in a most idyllic “village.”