What is a death + grief doula?

A support. A guide. A bridge.

A death + grief doula serves as a non-medical aid in the journey of dying, death and grief. The soul purpose of the doula is to be fully present and of service — listening and supporting the dying person and those processing the end of life, advocating for their vision of a “good death,” and companioning the grief experience.

Janelle Benuska is a death + grief doula, licensed massage therapist, energy worker, hospice volunteer, Death Café facilitator, mother, wife, and deathcare advocate. Her services focus on active listening, facilitating and holding space, and her practice is rooted in community and love, deep, authentic connection and devotion to attentive, intentional care.

For more information:

• WebMD webpage describing the role of a death doula

• New York Times article ‘Death Doulas’ Provide Aid at the End of Life

• Companioning philosophy from Dr. Wolfelt's 11 Tenets of Caring for the Bereaved

• Interview with Dr. Saul Ebema and Janelle Benuska on The Hospice Chaplaincy Show

• Article by Suzanne Mooney in Patient Power, featuring Janelle Benuska