Introduction

Overview

Bloom Baby was founded in October 2017 with the vision of providing knowledgeable, trustworthy, and compassionate doulas to clients from all walks of life, supported by a community of dedicated professionals. Co-founders Sarah Skogberg and Caitlyn Undreiner, both thriving doulas and busy mothers, identified a critical need: expanding access to high-quality doula services for families and creating a nurturing network for doulas that offers mentorship, peer support, and continuing education. Combining their years of experience and expertise, they built a framework of support that serves both families and professionals.

Today, Caitlyn Undreiner proudly carries forward this vision as the owner of Bloom Baby. Under her leadership, the organization continues to thrive as the vibrant community it was destined to become. Caitlyn remains deeply committed to fostering growth and creating new opportunities for families and professionals to flourish.

Mission

We empower individuals and families throughout their reproductive journeys—including fertility, conception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and beyond—by connecting them with compassionate professionals who provide emotional, physical, and evidence-based care. We are dedicated to supporting those navigating challenges such as abortion, pregnancy and infant loss, and fertility struggles, ensuring every person feels informed, respected, and empowered.

Vision

We envision a world where inclusive, accessible, and culturally competent doula services are available to all, fostering dignity, equity, and empowerment. Through adaptable, personalized care, we aim to meet the evolving needs of families and the professionals who serve them, transforming lives through compassionate support at every stage of the reproductive journey.

Core Values

Our core values are the foundation of everything we do. They guide how we support our clients, collaborate with one another as doulas, and care for ourselves. These principles are not just ideals but the essence of how we show up every day as part of this agency and the communities we serve.

• Compassion and Respect: We provide empathetic, emotional support while honoring the dignity, autonomy, and individuality of every person throughout their reproductive journey. This applies to our clients and extends to the doulas within our agency, fostering a supportive, respectful environment for all.

• Integrity and Professionalism: We uphold the highest ethical standards with honesty, transparency, and accountability, consistently delivering compassionate and reliable care. Within the agency, we build trust by maintaining professionalism and integrity in our interactions with clients and colleagues alike.

• Inclusivity and Equity: We embrace diversity in all its forms, ensuring our care is culturally competent, accessible, and rooted in a deep commitment to reproductive justice for all. Our agency actively works to create an inclusive environment for doulas and clients, promoting equity in both care and workplace practices.

• Collaboration and Client-Centered Care: We partner with families, medical providers, midwives, and other care teams to prioritize individual needs, preferences, and well-being. Similarly, within our agency, we collaborate with one another as doulas to share knowledge, support professional growth, and create a culture of teamwork. Through personalized, holistic support and evidence-based resources, we empower both clients and our doulas to make informed decisions and thrive in their roles and experiences.

Commitment to a Supportive Work Environment

We are committed to fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes inclusivity, positivity, and mutual respect. Our goal is to build a community where doulas feel safe, supported, and valued for their contributions.

As a Bloom Baby affiliated doula you will receive:

• Administrative Support: We handle marketing, contracts, billing, logistical inquiries, and follow-ups, enabling you to dedicate your time and energy to doing more of what you love!

• Curated Client Referrals: Potential clients are matched to your service area, experience, and expertise, allowing you to focus on building connections and fostering relationships without spending time on leads that may not be a good fit.

• Fair Compensation: With our tier-based system and direct deposit payments, you can count on receiving prompt and equitable payments, ensuring that your hard work and dedication are rewarded fairly and without delays.

• Support, Mentorship, Networking & Continuing Education Opportunities including:

• Weekly Office Hours (by appointment)

• One-on-One Mentorship Calls (at a reduced rate)

• Monthly Education Events & Recordings

• Quarterly Networking Events

• Special Community Events throughout the year

• Private Facebook Group for continued networking and support

• Monthly Newsletters with updates, opportunities, and reminders

• Access to the Affiliated Doula Portal with:

• A "Living Library" of resources to support your practice

• A full schedule of upcoming events with links to virtual events

• A streamlined annual renewal process to keep your affiliation current

Employment Policies

Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Policy

We are committed to providing an inclusive and equitable workplace. The agency prohibits discrimination or harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. This policy applies to all employees, independent contractors, and clients of the agency.

Anti-Harassment and Workplace Violence Policy 

Our agency has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or workplace violence. Employees and contractors are encouraged to report concerns to management without fear of retaliation. Harassment includes unwelcome verbal, physical, or visual conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile work environment. 

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Sexual harassment (e.g., unwanted advances or inappropriate comments).

• Bullying or intimidation among staff or with/from clients.

• Any form of violence or threat of violence in the workplace.

Independence & At-Will Employment Policies

All Bloom Baby affiliated doulas are independent contractors, not employees. This status provides the freedom to manage your own schedule and professional practices while upholding Bloom Baby’s standards of care. Doulas are responsible for their own certifications, liability insurance, tax obligations, and compliance with relevant regulations. This policy ensures flexibility and autonomy while fostering a professional community dedicated to exceptional client care.

Bloom Baby operates under an at-will engagement policy as outlined in the Independent Contractor Agreement. Either party may terminate the agreement with 30 days' written notice. However, the agency reserves the right to terminate the agreement immediately if there is reasonable cause. In the event of termination, the doula is expected to collaborate with the agency to ensure a seamless transition of care for any clients.

Non-Exclusivity & Non-Circumvent Policies

As an independent contractor, you are not required to work exclusively with Bloom Baby and may serve clients independently or through other businesses/agencies. While representing Bloom Baby, doulas are expected to adhere to the agency’s policies and maintain professionalism to ensure consistent, high-quality service for referred clients.

While working with Bloom Baby and for one year after, you may not work privately with clients or referrals introduced to you by the agency in a way that bypasses Bloom Baby’s involvement. Any exceptions must be approved in writing and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

The Bloom Baby Process

1. Inquiry & Match

• Bloom Baby initiates the matching process upon receipt of client inquiries.

• If your profile matches a client’s criteria, we will contact you to confirm your interest and availability. Please respond as soon as possible so that we can promptly serve our clients.

• If you do not respond within 24 hours, we will move on to other candidates.

2. Initial Client Contact

• Once you confirm interest and availability, we will provide the client’s contact information.

• You must contact the client within 24 hours and copy us on all initial communications.

• Please use the “Sample Email” provided below as a guide to craft your initial message. Personalize it while keeping it brief, focused on introducing yourself and scheduling a complimentary consultation.

• When sending your initial communications, please be sure to:

  • Identify yourself as a “Bloom Baby Affiliated Doula”.

  • Remove any personal logos, websites, or related business references from your email signature to avoid client confusion.

  • Follow up at least once within 3 days if you haven’t heard back.

**

SAMPLE EMAIL

Subject: Bloom Baby Doula Inquiry

[Greet client by name],

Insert a 1-2 sentence introduction, being sure to identify yourself as a Bloom Baby Affiliated Doula. You might also like to share a few facts about yourself.

I received your inquiry through Bloom Baby and would like to schedule a complimentary consultation to get to know one another & answer any questions you may have. I am available to speak/meet (suggest some dates and times). Please let me know if one of these times could work for you. If you need to schedule another time, please let me know a few options and I will do my best to accommodate your schedule.

[Create a salutation and signature]

**

3. Complimentary Consultations

• Ensure punctuality and preparation for all consultations.

• Provide video conferencing or in-person meetings whenever possible. A face-to-face meeting builds strong relationships and helps confirm mutual compatibility.

  • If your consultation is by phone, we recommend that you schedule at least one video or in-person meeting before moving forward.

• For Postpartum Doulas, we recommend an in-home consultation whenever possible, to confirm your comfort with the environment in which you will be providing services as well.

4. Moving Forward

• When you confirm with a client that you are both interested in moving forward, you must notify Bloom Baby with the agreed upon contract details. This includes any particular scheduling agreements, such as the number and type of postpartum visits (daytime/overnight), dates you will not be available, etc.

• We will prepare the contract and send it out to you and your client for electronic signatures, requesting it be returned within 3 business days.

• Once the signed contract is returned, we will issue an invoice for the client’s deposit payment.

• We will notify you following receipt of payment so that you may begin providing services.

• You will receive your initial payment (25%) following this milestone.

5. Delivery of Services

• Please contact your client within 24 hours of receiving confirmation of their deposit payment, to establish the working relationship and schedule your initial/prenatal visit(s).

• You are solely responsible for scheduling and delivering the services specified in the Client Contract, and keeping record of all service dates & hours as you complete them.

• You must secure a back-up doula for every Bloom Baby contract. Failure to do so is a breach of contract, so please prioritize this and confirm your back-up as soon as possible.

• You must notify Bloom Baby when services begin. We will then issue an invoice for the client’s balance payment. For Birth Client Contracts, this invoice will be issued automatically, to be paid by 34 weeks of pregnancy.

  • You will receive your second payment (50%) following this milestone.

6. Completion of Services

• You must notify Bloom Baby when services are complete. To confirm completion, you will be asked to provide a record of all service dates & hours.

• You will receive your final payment (25%) following this milestone.

• Bloom Baby will follow up with clients and invite them to share a testimonial.

  • You will receive a copy of any client feedback or testimonials submitted.

  • When sharing any Bloom Baby client testimonials, you must reference them appropriately, (ie: “Bloom Baby Client, Kate Hawkins”).

As an affiliated doula, your role is vital to the compassionate, professional care we provide. Below, we’ve outlined key responsibilities to help ensure a smooth and successful partnership.

Your Responsibilities

Onboarding and Annual Renewal

Starting off strong and staying up to date is important! All affiliated doulas need to complete the onboarding process and annual renewal steps. These include submitting the following:

• Proof of current training or certification.

• A list of current clients (last names and service dates).

• Professional liability insurance with the agency listed as an additional insured.

• CPR certification (renewed every two years).

• Consent for a background check (renewed every three years).

• Independent Contractor Agreement (renewed annually or with tier changes).

• W-9 and direct deposit forms (annually or as needed).

• Profile and Service Preferences forms (annually or as needed).

Submitting everything on time helps us keep things running smoothly for everyone. Delays in providing materials may affect your ability to start or continue services.

Keeping Certifications and Insurance Current

We count on you to maintain all necessary credentials throughout your time with us. This means:

• Professional Liability Insurance: Keep your policy active with a minimum limit of $1,000,000 per claim and provide a certificate naming the Agency as an additional insured.

• CPR Certification: Stay certified in adult and infant CPR and renew every two years.

• Doula Certifications: Make sure your doula credentials are valid and in good standing.

If anything lapses, let us know right away so we can work together on next steps.

Staying Aligned with Standards of Care

Your dedication to quality care makes all the difference. Here’s how we ensure high standards:

• Work Within Your Scope: Stick to non-medical support, and refer clients to healthcare professionals when needed, and be sure you adhere to the scope of practice set forth by your certifying organization(s). 

• Follow the Rules: Stay informed about local, state, and federal regulations for doulas.

• Practice Evidence-Based Care: Apply current standards and best practices for all provided Services (ie: fertility, conception, pregnancy, birth, postpartum care, newborn care, safe sleep, feeding, etc.) as defined and recommended by reputable organizations and authorities.

• Keep Learning: Stay sharp with ongoing training and professional development.

Offering Non-Judgmental Support

Our clients come from all walks of life, and every journey is unique. Your role is to provide unbiased, respectful care by:

• Creating a safe, inclusive space for all clients.

• Honoring diverse cultures, traditions, and choices.

Protecting Privacy and Setting Boundaries

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of trust. Be sure to:

• Keep client information private and share only with permission when necessary.

• Set and maintain clear professional boundaries to avoid conflicts of interest.

Prioritizing Health and Safety

Client safety is always top priority. Remember to:

• Follow hygiene and infection control practices (use personal protective equipment when needed).

• Discuss emergency plans with clients before starting services.

• Secure a reliable backup doula for every contract, it’s a must!

• See “Health & Safety Guidelines” (page 14) for additional information. 

Delivering Outstanding Service

We’re proud to offer care with professionalism and a personal touch. You can contribute to this by:

• Following agency policies and agreements.

• Showing up on time, prepared, and dressed appropriately.

• Communicating clearly and respectfully with clients, families, and colleagues.

Navigating Challenges and Reporting Incidents

Sometimes, conflicts or unexpected situations arise. If that happens:

• Try to resolve issues with open communication and active listening.

• If needed, escalate unresolved matters to agency leadership for support.

• Report incidents, safety concerns, or policy breaches promptly so we can address them effectively.

Accessing Resources and Support

You’re never on this journey alone! We encourage you to:

• Take advantage of agency resources like training materials and online courses.

• Join peer groups and mentorship programs for connection and support.

• Reach out to leadership when you need advice or help navigating challenges.

• Stay in the loop with newsletters, forums, and events.

Advancing Your Doula Career

We’re here to help you grow! Our tier system is designed to reflect your experience and training for each of the services you offer.

• Expanding Your Offerings: You don’t need to be certified to begin but must show proof of participation in a reputable training program before we add any new service to your profile.

• Tier Advancement: Submit the Tier Advancement Form (available in the Doula Portal) along with a record of your clients. Once approved, you’ll receive a new Independent Contractor Agreement reflecting your updated tier and rate.

Services & Compensation

Service Packages & Fees

The agency is responsible for creating service packages, setting all fees, and communicating the options available directly to clients. Affiliated doulas are asked to direct any questions about service packages, fees, or payments back to the agency.

• The agency retains a percentage of all contracted work and you are paid according to your contracted rate, as outlined in your Independent Contractor Agreement.

• You are not permitted to work privately with clients referred by the agency or those you meet through agency-related events without prior written approval.  If a client you previously worked with or were referred to through Bloom Baby contacts you directly to request services, you must redirect them to the agency to arrange services with you again.

Services Provided 

Bloom Baby affiliated doulas are expected to adhere to all terms outlined in the Client Contract. Doulas are solely responsible for scheduling and providing the specified services, as well as maintaining accurate records of service dates and hours as they are completed.

All services include but are not limited to:

• Guaranteed back-up doula, secured directly by the primary Doula 

• Phone and email support as needed throughout the working relationship

  Birth Client Contracts include: 

• Two prenatal visits (90 minutes each) to prepare for labor & delivery

• On-call availability (24/7), beginning at 37 weeks of pregnancy

• Continuous support during labor and delivery

• Immediate postpartum care for up to two hours at client’s place of birth

• One postpartum visit (60 minutes), within 3 weeks of the birth

  Postpartum Client Contracts include:

• One prenatal visit (90 minutes) to prepare for postpartum adjustment & recovery

• Availability to begin services within 48 hours notice, beginning at 38 weeks of pregnancy

• In-home support for the agreed upon number of hours and duration with contract minimums: 24hrs within 3 weeks, Daytime shifts 4hrs, Overnight shifts 10hrs 

  Fertility / Abortion / Loss / Bereavement Support Contracts include: 

• Support for for the agreed upon number of sessions and duration specified in the individual Client Contract

Tier Assignment & Rates

Bloom Baby’s tier system and payment structure is based upon the doula’s level of experience and training/certification, as shown in the chart below. Your Tier assignment is determined during the interview/renewal process and reflected in your individual Independent Contractor Agreement. 

Master Tier Doulas will have the opportunity to set their rates and outline additional services annually, within the specified range. Doulas offering Fertility, Abortion, Loss, and/or Bereavement services will have the opportunity to work within our wrap-around care packages to provide support on a volunteer basis or for a nominal fee.