About Us
DEI offers an integrative approach with evidence-based education that is inclusive of all beliefs, cultures, lifestyles, and philosophies.
Proudly Supporting Local Families Since 2009.
Come and learn from the industry experts and receive your certification immediately after the training.
Shakila M.
Birth, Postpartum Doula Training & Infant Sleep Consultant Training Educator
My journey into this work began as a nanny, where I first discovered my deep love for caring for families and supporting them through the ups and downs of raising their children. I have always believed this work is “God’s work”—a true calling to walk alongside parents during one of the most special and vulnerable times of their lives.
When I became a doula, I began to see parenting in a whole new light. Drawing from my own experience as a mother, I asked myself, How can I show up for families in an even better way? The answer was simple: by putting myself in their shoes—feeling their joys, their worries, and their struggles—and finding ways to make their journey just a little bit easier.
This calling eventually grew into a vision, and that vision became Doulas by the Bay, a company I founded to build a community of doulas who truly show up for families with love, care, and understanding. For over 16 years, I’ve been honored to lead this work, creating not only a place where families feel supported but also a pathway for new doulas to be trained, mentored, and given meaningful opportunities to work in this field.
Through the Doula Educational Institute, I now teach and mentor aspiring doulas, sharing both the practical tools of the profession and the heart behind the work. My classes are about more than just learning a role—they are about building a meaningful, impactful, and sustainable career. I share my journey, my challenges, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way to empower others to step into this calling with confidence and purpose.
My mission is clear: to equip doulas with the skills, compassion, and vision to make a lasting difference—not only supporting families one birth at a time, but also shaping communities and creating change in society through compassionate care. Teaching this work is my greatest joy, because I know that together we are building a future where every parent feels truly seen, supported, and empowered.
Interested in being the best doula you can be?
DEI strives to increase the quality of prenatal, birth and postpartum support by promoting excellent doula training and continuing education and mutual support to our students.
About DEI
Doula Educational Institute (DEI) offers an integrative approach with evidence-based doula education that is inclusive of all beliefs, cultures, lifestyles, and philosophies.
