Arizona's approach to doula practice and certification provides flexibility and voluntary participation in a state certification program. Here’s a detailed explanation of the current laws and options for doulas in Arizona:

Arizona Doula Legislation Overview

1. Voluntary Licensing: In Arizona, practicing as a doula does not require mandatory state certification. Doulas can operate without being certified by the Department of Health Services. This provides flexibility for those who may already have certifications from other organizations or prefer not to undergo the state certification process.

2. Voluntary State Certification Program: Initiated by Laws 2021, Ch. 282 (Senate Bill 1181), Arizona established a voluntary licensing program for doulas within the Arizona Department of Health Services. This program is designed for doulas who choose to obtain a state-recognized credential. Being state-certified might enhance credibility and could be preferred by certain employers or insurance providers.

3. Definition and Role of a Doula: According to A.R.S. § 36-766(3), a doula is defined as a trained nonmedical professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to families before, during, and after childbirth up to one year postpartum or in the case of loss. State-certified doulas may also act as liaisons between birth parents and medical or social services to improve healthcare outcomes.

4. Application Process: Doulas wishing to become state-certified must complete an application process, which includes providing various documents:

   • Proof of citizenship.

   • Ethical compliance via a Code of Ethics Agreement.

   • Educational background attestation.

   • Professional competency documentation such as birth observation forms, letters of recommendation, and competency attestations.

5. Renewal and Continuing Education: Certified doulas are required to renew their certification periodically, which includes completing continuing education hours and submitting an attestation of completed education. Renewal also requires disclosing any criminal convictions or disciplinary actions related to any professional license held.

6. Reciprocity: For doulas certified in other states, Arizona offers a reciprocity application process, allowing them to practice based on their out-of-state credentials, subject to specific documentation and eligibility criteria.

7. Regulatory Details and Additional Information: Doulas and those interested in becoming certified can find more details, including application forms and checklists, on the Arizona Department of Health Services website dedicated to doula licensing: Arizona DHS Doula Licensing.

Current Status of DoulaVersity in Arizona

DoulaVersity is currently not an approved school by the state of Arizona for doula certification purposes but is in the process of applying for approval. However, certified doulas may be able to apply and be approved anyway. Our CADS doulas will be most successful for approval as they are required to observe one birth, attend three births, have certification renewed every three years, and provide continuing education units.