Description
The Advanced Doula Skills Training (ADST) a.k.a. The Maternal Health Consultant Training (MHC), a culturally responsive program designed to equip individuals and community doulas with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for the effective supplemental observation of perinatal mothers and infants. This training is well-suited for paraprofessionals, such as doulas, lactation counselors, birth assistants, or anyone with a keen interest in advancing maternal health and well-being.
The ADST enhances maternal and family health outcomes by providing participants with current, evidence-based knowledge and practices designed to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality rates. This comprehensive training program delivers essential expertise in maternal health and wellness while developing practical skills to support women throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
The curriculum encompasses diverse topics including human anatomy and physiology, perinatal mental health disorders, maternal nutrition and hydration needs, and strategies for preventing and managing common pregnancy-related health complications. Beyond clinical knowledge, the ADST emphasizes the critical role of emotional support and maternal advocacy, while fostering effective collaboration with healthcare providers and birth team members to ensure optimal care coordination.
The ADST was curated by Midwife Sekesa Berry to improve maternal wellness within Black communities. The ADST is led by Community Midwives and experienced community doulas These instructors bring lived experience from supporting birthing families from diverse backgrounds across various settings, including hospitals, birth centers, and home births. The ADST incorporates community learning objectives and implements an each-one – teach-one model to encourage participant engagement and to reenforce learning.
Whether you’re a doula, lactation counselor, or simply interested in improving maternal health and wellbeing, the ADST is a valuable resource that can help you make a difference in the lives of mothers and families.
Participants who successfully complete the ADST will receive a certificate of completion, demonstrating their readiness to provide advanced doula support to expectant and postpartum families, with a focus on cultural competence and an enhanced awareness of black maternal morbidities.
GBDN Directory Participants receive 20% off of all trainings.
Dates: August 20 – 22, 2026 / 9:00am – 4:00pm (est) Daily
Location: TBD within Metro-Atlanta
Course Outline
- Herstory and legacy of traditional African American perinatal care.
- The impact of institutional and systemic racism on Black maternal health in the United States.
- Holistic Human Anatomy & Body functions.
- Diabetes as a modern-day epidemic, and glucose measurements.
- Body temperatures and what they reveal about infection.
- Stress, an unsustainable reality; measuring its impact through blood pressures.
- Warning signs that pose threats to both maternal and infant wellness.
- Urinalysis, a window into the body’s chemistry.
- Identify abnormal maternal signs, and know when to seek medical or alternative care.
Includes
- Maternal Health Consultant Manual
- Digital blood pressure cuff
- Digital thermometer
- Urine test strips
- Glucometer kit
- IN-PERSON only – Grand Midwife Legacy Bag
- IN-PERSON only – Lunch and Refreshments
Requirements
- Previous doula training required.
- Full payment upon registration.
- Pass the ADST Competency Exam (only for virtual attendance)
- Complete the Participation Form
