“Looking back at the last six months of my wife’s life, and I know my late wife would agree, Josephine was a necessary and welcomed bridge to whatever lies on the other side. Through sound journeys, massage, and deep conversations, Josephine was there as both a guide and a reassuring presence.

Miriam’s last few months were difficult, both physically and emotionally, but she was able to ease into her final time with us largely because of the guidance and support Josephine gave to both of us and our children.

The benefit of having an end-of-life Doula like Josephine, grounded, present, and authentic, can’t be overstated. Thank you so much. You will always hold a beautiful and sacred place in our hearts.”

-David Z.

Josephine here~ I am an INELDA (International End of Life Doula Association) trained death doula.  I bring warm, respectful, grounded, in-depth companionship and support to those who have a life-limiting illness, and assistance to those who may not have a diagnosis but want to deeply consider and plan for the future. I am committed to honoring your life, your unique experiences and person-hood, and to helping you to have the last weeks or months are the most meaningful to you. I am committed to the reality that we are fully alive every moment, right up until the moment we are not.

With heart and wisdom, and always centering the person who is approaching end-of-life, I offer the following assistance to those who are dying and their loved ones. This list is not exhaustive– things often come up which were not anticipated that I may be able to help with.

• Facilitating open conversations about dying, including conversations with loved ones 
• Providing support and guidance processing one’s life and death, emotionally, mentally and spiritually (in alignment my client’s beliefs) and helping provide resources in that regard
• Sound meditation, guided meditation and imagery
• Light massage and relaxing, caring touch
• Advocating for the dying person’s wishes 
• Co-creating a vigil and sitting vigil
• Assistance with legacy projects
• Assistance with desired rituals before, during, and after death
• Providing light housework, pet care, meal preparation, errands and accompaniment to appointments
• Providing respite for caregivers 
• Providing resources, including help for creating legal documents and making decisions related to death and dying, during and after
• Grief reprocessing and extended grief support

What do you need at this time? Are you unsure what services you need, if we would be a good fit, or want to discuss your situation further? I am here for you, and I would love to talk with you. I am also available to consult those who do not have a life-limiting illness, but want to prepare for the future. Click here to schedule a free 30 minute consultation.

“I cannot imagine what we would have done without Josephine. She was instrumental in helping my dad through a beautiful dying process. He had ALS. She “midwifed” him and our family in a ways that were immensely comforting and satisfying to him, and stabilizing and enriching for our whole family — bringing us all closer together. We had so many beautiful connecting moments because of Josephine. Her instinctive talents helped us cope with the unknown as she guided with expert skill — affirming the process with love and affirmation, as well as guidance — from everything to the medical care system, to timing, to resources, etc. Now that I’ve been through the dying process with someone this close to me, I would never want to do it again without a doula, and hopefully Josephine herself. My dad had the death he wanted and our family cherishes the moments we shared, and Josephine. If she’s available for what you need, you’re lucky :)”

–Kristen Wheeler, daughter of Cass Wheeler

Sliding scale pricing and pro-bono work

I have an hourly rate, or work with packages. I offer all doula services at a reduced rate, if you need it.  I trust you to make an honest assessment of your resources, and I will work with you to make this care affordable. If you like, I can offer guidance on things to consider when placing yourself on a sliding scale.

I am committed to offering pro-bono doula services on a regular basis.  It is also important for me to maintain my own well-being and a balanced life, so I may not always be able to accept these requests.  That said, I strongly encourage you to reach out and see what is possible.