Welcome to Postpartum Birthworker Training We are so honored to be trusted with your education. You are needed.

As you begin your journey in becoming a birthworker, it is crucial to prioritize self-care and well-being. The nature of this work can be emotionally taxing and physically demanding, so taking breaks to process the information you are learning is essential. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. It is okay to step away, breathe, and come back when you are ready. By practicing self-care, you are not only taking care of yourself but also enhancing your ability to support birthing individuals effectively.

Furthermore, it is important to recognize that you are not alone in this training. You are now part of a community that is here to support and uplift you. Whether you have questions, need clarification, or simply want to connect with like-minded individuals, know that help is just a message or call away. Reach out to us through email, phone, or the comments section in the modules. We are dedicated to assisting you and typically respond to comments twice a week. For urgent matters, sending an email would ensure a quicker response. Your journey to becoming a skilled birthworker is a collective effort, and we are committed to being there for you every step of the way.

In conclusion, as you embark on this transformative training to become a postpartum birthworker, prioritize your well-being and know that you have a supportive community to lean on. Remember to take breaks, reach out for assistance when needed, and engage with the resources provided to deepen your learning experience. Self-care is not selfish; it is a necessary part of sustaining yourself in this important work. By fostering a compassionate and supportive environment within yourself and with others, you are laying a strong foundation for your future role in assisting birthing individuals during one of the most profound moments of their lives.

Juli's email: [email protected]

Nickie's email: [email protected]

Cornerstone cell: (510) 501-7501

If you plan to become certified, please download our certification packet here: https://www.cornerstonedoulatrainings.com/certification to get started on your requirements.

Please review the Cornerstone Code of Conduct (attached below) . You will be asked to email this document with your signed agreement to uphold the Cornerstone Code of Conduct along with your completed certification packet.

If you have doubts or questions, please contact us before you move forward with the course. We want to make certain that you feel good about signing this document. 

Q & A ZOOM GROUP MENTORING and Q & A MEETINGS ARE WEEKLY ON:

MONDAYS 5pm - 6pm PST and

TUESDAYS 9am-10:30am PST

For certification you are required to attend 3 of these meetings. Please keep track of the dates you attend as you will need this information to fill out your certification packet.

For Zoom log in information see: "Zoom group mentoring and Q & A meetings, date, time, and login info" in this "Course Introduction" module.

We suggest opting 'NO' for the 'Email Opt Out' option at registration. These are not marketing emails, these are internal emails and announcements from Cornerstone such as job opportunities, connecting people and Q & A reminders or cancellations.

Our mission is to advance Birth and Reproductive Justice by training Birthworkers in the expansive, inclusive and multidisciplinary role of the full spectrum Doula. By centering antiracism, harm reduction, equity and justice in all we do, Cornerstone Birthworkers radically reimagine Birthwork, rooting themselves in community care and the deep understanding that true change will not occur without the collective. 

We envision a liberated world free of trauma, violence and disparity. A world where mutual aid is the norm, transformative justice is the touchstone, and collectivism supersedes individualism. A world where compassion is everywhere, within all people and freely given to all. 

Birthwork is political. Through this work, we destigmatize reproductive experiences, choices and outcomes. We interrupt injustice in healthcare spaces. We reconnect with the wisdom about self, community and planet that has been lost and stolen throughout the generations. Together, we are reclaiming human rights starting at the beginning: Birth.

Recommended book list for this course:

These books will serve as resource guides for you and your clients. We recommend that you read all of them, but it is not required to finish them while you are working your way through this training.

A Taste of Our Own Medicine, Bean

Natural Health After Birth, Romm

Trauma Stewardship, van Dernoot Lipsky * We highly recommend you prioritize reading this book for your own health, wellbeing and the ability to have longevity in Birthwork.

The First Forty Days, Ou