What is an End-of-Life Doula?
An End-of-Life Doula (also known as a Death Doula or Death Midwife) provides compassionate, non-medical support to individuals nearing the end of life and their loved ones. This support encompasses emotional, logistical, and physical assistance during this profound life stage. An End-of-Life Doula offers comfort, guidance, and advocacy to ensure a dignified and meaningful end-of-life experience.
My Journey
My path to becoming an End-of-Life Doula began with the loss of my friend, Andy – but my relationship with life and mortality started much earlier.
Surviving bacterial meningitis and managing life-threatening food allergies as a child made me acutely aware of life’s fragility and preciousness. These early encounters with mortality taught me to engage deeply and fully with life.
Close bonds with my grandparents and a cherished friendship with an elderly neighbor revealed the beauty of intergenerational connections. At 13, I became a candy striper, later teaching movement and art classes at a senior center during college. As an adult, I volunteered with Dorot, visiting homebound seniors. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the wisdom, perspective, and joy that older generations share.
Why I Do This Work
My friend Andy’s illness and passing cemented my calling. As his healthcare proxy, I navigated the complexities of medical care and advocated for his wishes. As his friend, I provided companionship and emotional support. Andy passed away just five weeks after his diagnosis, largely unaware of his dying process until the very end.
I believe that death, dying, and grief should not be taboo topics. I’m committed to fostering open conversations and guiding individuals and their families through informed and thoughtful decision-making, creating a supportive environment for planning, care, and grief. Together, we transform difficult discussions into opportunities for understanding, connection, and peace.
End-of-Life Planning
Comprehensive care and planning services, including advance care directives, vigil preparation, respite care, and holistic emotional support for individuals nearing end-of-life and their families.
Individualized Support
Receive practical, personalized guidance through every step – from navigating paperwork and advance care directives to better understanding and preparing for the dying process.
Creating Lasting Legacy
Connect deeply with your loved ones and create something meaningful that will endure for generations. Through legacy exploration and personalized projects, build lasting memories that honor your unique story.
Gillian Fein
Trained by INELDA, VNS Hospice, and Calvary Hospital Hospice, Gillian provides compassionate end-of-life support and aging expertise to clients throughout Manhattan – including the Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Midtown, and Downtown. She also works with clients outside of New York City, and collaborates closely with synagogues, churches, and community organizations across NYC, leading workshops and offering personalized guidance and education.
Testimonials
“Gillian, you are a real bright spot in my life.”
“The aging presentation helped me to build a six month strategy to achieve goals with my mom.”
“Gillian helped my husband and I articulate our needs and desired directions... and helped me and the children manage our feelings before and after my husband’s passing. ”
“Gillian’s approach brought comfort and connection to our family”
Life and Aging Workshops
Gillian offers engaging, compassionate workshops designed for families, peer groups, and community organizations, including churches, synagogues, and community centers. These interactive sessions provide practical insights, meaningful discussions, and emotional support to help participants navigate the complexities of aging, caregiving, and end-of-life planning.
Begin the Conversation
Please get in touch to schedule your complimentary consultation.