Train Online from Anywhere or Join Us In-Person in California
Become a Birth Doula with Training That Goes Beyond Technique
Evidence-Based Birth Doula Training Rooted in Presence, Compassion, and the Instinctive Wisdom of Birth.
We believe that while doulas develop practical skills through training, it is their calm, compassionate presence that leaves a lasting impact on the families they serve.
At Sierra Doula Academy, you'll learn both.
Through evidence-based education, experiential learning, and meaningful mentorship, you'll develop the practical skills, confidence, and professional foundation to support families with knowledge, compassion, and respect.
Whether you join us online or attend one of our California workshops, you'll learn not only what to do during labor, but how to create the conditions in which families feel safe, seen, respected, and deeply supported.
Our DONA-approved Birth Doula Training Workshops provide a clear pathway toward certification while preparing you for meaningful, sustainable work as a birth doula.
DONA Doula Training
Our in-person and online doula trainings have been DONA-approved since 1996.
Online Doula Training
Get your birth doula training online. Learn from anywhere.
Doula Mentorship & Private Coaching
Online mentorship program & private one-on-one coaching with Janine Maitri.
Get Listed As A Doula
Our directory of birth & postpartum doulas in California. Get found by families in Sacramento!
About Us
Welcome to Sierra Doula Academy ~ Where Modern Science meets Instinctual Wisdom
Empowering birth professionals through education, mentorship, and community.
At Sierra Doula Academy, we offer training, personalized mentorship, and ongoing learning for both new and experienced doulas.
Whether you’re just beginning or ready to grow your practice, we provide a supportive, practical approach to learning that helps you step into this work with clarity and confidence.
Training That Meets You Where You Are
Doula Training in a Supportive Learning Community
Learn in the way that works best for you—online or in-person
Online Training
Complete your Birth Doula Training live online—from wherever you are.
Learn in a supportive, interactive environment from the comfort of your home.
- Live, interactive learning in small groups
- Fulfills the CBE and Birth Doula Training certification requirements with DONA International (for those pursuing certification)
- Personalized mentoring session with Janine
- Accessible across time zones
In-Person Training
Join us for a Birth Doula Training workshop in the Sacramento Valley or San Jose, CA
Small groups, experiential learning, and a supportive California doula community
- Experiential, small-group learning
- Fulfills the CBE and Birth Doula Training certification requirements with DONA International (for those pursuing certification)
- Personalized mentoring session with Janine
- Multiple dates throughout the year
Bonus Opportunity
Attendance at our doula training workshop includes a private mentoring session with founder and doula trainer Janine Maitri. This individualized session offers support for your next steps—whether refining your business vision, preparing for certification, or navigating your first clients.
What's Next?
Your path begins here
Wherever you begin—online or in person— you’ll be supported every step of the way as you grow into the work of supporting families through birth.
Choose Your Training Path
Select the format that works best for you—online or in-person.
Complete Your Training
Engage in experiential, supportive learning designed to build knowledge, confidence, and presence.
Gain hands-on experience
Begin integrating your learning and, when ready, start supporting families and building confidence in your role.
Certification (optional)
For those pursuing certification, our training fulfills requirements for DONA International.
Doula trainings are held online and in-person in Sacramento and San Jose, CA
More Than a Doula Training
Our Philosophy
We believe every person deserves to feel safe, seen, respected, and deeply supported—and that the most powerful tool we bring to another human being is our presence.
While doulas develop practical skills through training, it is their calm, compassionate presence that leaves a lasting impact on the families they serve.
At Sierra Doula Academy, we believe technical skills and compassionate presence go hand in hand. Through evidence-based education, experiential learning, and meaningful mentorship, we prepare doulas not only to support birth with confidence and professionalism, but to become the calm, steady, trusted presence families remember long after the birth is over.
Birth Doula Training
Comprehensive, hands-on workshops grounded in evidence-based care and compassionate, mindful support.
Mentorship & Coaching
Personalized guidance to help you grow with confidence and integrity.
SDA Doula Directory
A trusted online platform connecting California families with doulas trained through our program.
Continuing Education
Specialized workshops designed to expand your knowledge and keep your skills current.
Training doulas with skill, presence, and heart
Janine Maitri
Founder, Sierra Doula Academy — DONA-Approved Birth Doula Trainer
Janine founded Sierra Doula Academy in 2002 with the belief that birth professionals deserve training that is both rigorous and deeply human. For over three decades, she has trained thousands of doulas across the country, integrating evidence-based knowledge with compassionate, mindful support.
At SDA, students work directly with Janine throughout their training, including a private mentoring session she offers personally. This kind of personal access and guidance is a rare and meaningful part of doula education.
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DONA-Certified Trainer since 1996
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Practicing Since 1986
Work One-on-One with Janine
Get personalized support as you build your skills, confidence, and doula practice. Janine’s mentoring sessions are designed to guide you through real-world challenges and your next steps with clarity.
→ Learn More About Doula Mentoring & Coaching Sessions
What is DONA certification and why does it matter?
DONA International is the world’s largest and oldest doula organization. A DONA-approved training is the first step toward a credential recognized by hospitals, birth centers, and families across the US and internationally.
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Hospitals and birth centers recognize DONA-certified doulas by name
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Signals professionalism to the families you'll serve
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Sierra's curriculum is fully aligned with current DONA requirements
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Both online and in-person trainings qualify for DONA certification
Reviews
Graduates across California and beyond
