Compassionate Transitions

Compassionate Transitions provides physical, emotional, spiritual, informational care and support through life reflection & planning to last breaths. We incorporate the guiding principles of the doula model of care with an emphasis on:

  • Life reflection & meaning
  • Legacy work
  • Vigil planning
  • Intense involvement in the last days of life
  • Reprocessing the experiences with loved ones after the death
  • Active involvement in grief processing

We compassionately help people recognize the meaning and purpose of their life and the impact they have had on others. We guide and educate each person on decisions they can make for their final days. Being able to talk about one’s life, as well as ask questions about the dying process, reduces anxiety, and leads to deeper meaning and greater comfort for the dying person and their loved ones.

Our services can be provided in all care settings (i.e. home, hospital, or care facility) and are available to people of all ages and illnesses.

Currently our in-person services are only offered in the greater Houston area. However, we are happy to schedule a phone or Zoom call for those outside of the Houston area, to discuss aspects various aspects of the doula program.

What is an end-of-life doula?

An end-of-life doula is a nonmedical professional trained to care for a terminally ill person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs during the death process. People can work with an end-of-life doula before they qualify for hospice, which manages a person’s medical needs.

The model of care for end-of-life doulas includes:

  • Family-centered approach (family of origin & choice)
  • Empowerment
  • Non-judgmental support
  • Non-medical support
  • Holistic care
  • Team members

If you would like to schedule an initial consultation or Zoom call to learn more about Compassionate Transitions, please contact Laura Sutherland at laura@gaylewells.org.