Virtuous Doula Training Academy
Training Programs
Perinatal Health Worker Certification — preparing the next generation of birth workers with skill, confidence, and cultural humility.
Program Overview
Perinatal Health Worker Certification
The Virtuous Doula Training Academy (VDTA) Perinatal Health Worker (PHW) Certification is a comprehensive, high-impact training designed to prepare students to support families across the full perinatal spectrum with skill, confidence, and cultural humility.
This program is intentionally structured to meet the realities of regional maternal health systems, preparing students to work across state lines with diverse communities and clinical environments.
Our Graduates
Celebrating Our Cohorts
Every graduation is a milestone — for our students, their families, and the communities they will serve.
How It Works
Program Format & Commitment
A rigorous, hybrid training program combining asynchronous and live learning. Students should expect a significant weekly time commitment of 6.5–9 hours per week.
Asynchronous learning
Self-paced weekly modules
Live instruction
2.5–3 hours of live class time per week
In-person skills labs
Scheduled lab and training days
Hands-on application
Service learning in real community settings
Cohort Model — Limited Enrollment
Only 30 students will be accepted into this cohort. Students move through the training together, building strong professional and peer support networks. This is a college-level certification program requiring consistent engagement, accountability, and professional commitment.
Enrollment
2026 Cohort Timeline
Week of
Interviews Begin
August 3, 2026
Final Selections
30 days prior to orientation
Orientation Week
September 14, 2026
First Week of Class
September 21, 2026
Training Location
Doula Lab
6608 W. Main St — Belleville, IL 62223
In-person labs and required sessions will be held at this location.
Your Future Role
What This Training Prepares You To Do
Graduates are prepared to serve as Perinatal Health Workers (PHWs) — professionals who integrate:
- Doula support
- Community health work
- Trauma-informed care
- Advocacy and education
You will be trained to support families across pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond, while navigating both community systems and clinical environments with professionalism and clarity of scope.
Is This For You?
This Program Is For Individuals Who Are Called To:
- Serve birthing families and communities
- Build a career in maternal health or birthwork
- Work across hospital, home, and community settings
- Commit to a structured, high-expectation learning environment
Featured Course
Virtuous Doula Training Academy
Presented by the Doula Lab
16-Week Master Syllabus
By Doula Lab
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Applications for the 2026 cohort are open. Spots are limited — apply today and take the first step toward becoming a Perinatal Health Worker.