Become a DONA Certified Birth Doula Online & In-Person in California
Step Into Meaningful Work Supporting Families Through Birth
Train online or join us in-person in California through programs designed to support you every step of the way. Based in Sacramento, Sierra Doula Academy provides a clear path to DONA certification through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience.
We also rent out our small event space in Sacramento.
→ Learn more about renting our space
DONA Doula Training
Our in-person and online doula trainings are 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!
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
Empowering birth professionals through education, mentorship, and community.
At Sierra Doula Academy (SDA), we support both aspiring and experienced doulas through high-quality training, personalized mentorship, and ongoing education.
Whether you’re just beginning or ready to grow your practice, we provide a supportive, real-world approach to learning that helps you step into this work with confidence.
Choose Your Training Path
Two Ways To Earn Your DONA Doula Certification
Online Doula Training
Complete your full DONA Birth Doula Training live from anywhere.
- Learn from the comfort of your home
- Meets all DONA certification requirements
- Personalized mentoring session with Janine
- Access from any device, any time zone
In-Person Training - Sacramento
Join a DONA Birth Doula Training workshop in Sacramento, CA. Small groups, hands-on practice, and a built-in California doula community.
- Small-group, hands-on workshop environment
- Meets all DONA certification requirements
- Personalized mentoring session with Janine
- Multiple dates throughout the year
Bonus Opportunity
Attendance at our doula training workshops 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 doula certification starts here
Whether you’re exploring online doula training or planning to attend a DONA-approved workshop in California, we’re here to support you.
Choose Your Training Path
Online or In-person DONA-approved workshop
Complete Your Training
Learn essential skills, comfort techniques, and client care
Gain hands-on experience
Begin supporting families and building confidence
Become Certified
Complete DONA requirements with our guidance
Doula trainings are held online and in-person in Sacramento, CA
Unsure? Join Our Intro to Doula Training Class
Our one-day class, Becoming a Birth Doula: An Introduction to Doula Training, offers a chance to explore the role, skills, and path of doula work before committing to a full training → Reserve Your Spot
Why Choose Us For Your Doula Training
More than a Doula training
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
pecialized 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 hundreds 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
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Practicing Since 2002
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
