Valley Death Doula

About Valley Death Doula

I'm glad you are here

I am Sarah Pradhan, the owner of Valley Death Doula. I started my journey as a hospice worker five years ago and in 2022 began exploring how to become a certified death doula. I was eager to give more time and energy to patients at the end of life. I am also passionate about providing support to families navigating the coming passing of a loved one and the deep grief that ultimately follows.

My certification with hospice volunteer training is through McLean in Simsbury, CT. I studied under renowned death doula Alua Arthur (founder of Going With Grace) for my death doula certification.

I hold a bachelor's degree in family studies with minors in gerontology and psychology. I live in Granby with my husband and two children and am also the Director of Faith Formation for the Granby Congregational Church, UCC.

About Valley Death Doula

WHAT IS A DEATH DOULA?

A death doula is someone who provides energy, care, love, attention and time to those curious about preparing for the end of life, nearing death, actively dying, or whose loved one is dying or has died. A death doula can help with funeral preparations, daily responsibilities at the home that are being put to the back burner, vigil services, life reviews, emotional support and more.

A death doula is NOT a nurse, a personal care aid, or a therapist.

Services I have provided

-Vigil Time. Sitting bedside with those who are actively dying. Giving family respite time.

-Comfort care- Playing soft music, gentle hand massages, gentle touch of hand holding or hair stroking if patient allows

-Prayers/Meditations- Readings, reflections and prayers

-Life Reviews. Asking big questions. Keeping a journal for the family. Emotional support through talking

-Card writing, photograph sorting and labeling, funeral preparations

-Memory projects- Preparing projects with clients for their loved ones

-Retrieving mail, running errands, making phone calls.

-Gathering resources for clients and families.

-Grief support and awareness

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach me at valleydeathdoula@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Will you come to my town?

I work in the Farmington Valley section of Connecticut. I will see people in New Hartford, Barkhamsted, Granby, East Granby, Simsbury, Canton and Avon. I sometimes expand my travel to other nearby towns as well. Just ask! I also offer some virtual services.

What do you charge?

My fees are based on what services I am providing and how long I work with clients/families. Currently my services start at $200/week. I do offer a sliding scale.

How many clients do you serve?

The nature of my work is flexible and fluid. I aim to have no more than 2-3 clients at any time. If you are seeking a death doula and I do not have availability in my schedule, I am happy to recommend you to a local colleague.

What else do you offer?

I offer workshops, grief support groups, and resources to share knowledge and increase honest and open conversations about death. I also host local in person "Death Cafes."