Hi Colleen,
I just want to add my 2-cents into this discussion.

I did take Judith Koch's program through the Institute of Somatic Therapy after I graduated from one of the best massage therapy schools in my state, Irene's Myomassology Institute, where I took both the hands-on prenatal massage and labor massage classes. I found Judith's program to be a good fit for me according to my previous training, family situation, and learning style. I have enjoyed the privilege of supporting the families of 19 babies, including a set of twins and a VBAC mom. I have had 2 families hire me twice and 1 family for three times, and have 5 more clients to doula in the upcoming months.

I have enjoyed serving temporarily as co-leader of my local BirthNetwork National chapter, and continue as a professional member of that great organization of birth professionals. I continue to grow as a Doula by continuing to take in knowledge through articles, networking with other birth pros outside of the massage profession, and reading great books by amazing authors and birth advocates such as Marsden Wagner, Jennifer Block, Tina Cassidy, Ina May Gaskin, and others. I have also developed great relationships with local midwives, labor & delivery nurses, OBs, and childbirth educators in my area.

While I agree with Rebecca that there are many other Doula certification programs out there (Birthing from Within, DONA, CAPPA, etc), certification alone does not make us great Doulas, nor is it a requirement in any state since we are not providing any medical/clinical care. What is important from a massage perspective, in my opinion, is that we get good hands-on training for prenatal massage, which can then be supplemented by the Doula training of our choice, and then continue our growth through experience, education, and networking. If we love pregnancy, honor the normalcy of birth, and work hard to create a circle of support around our clients, we will be the best Doulas we can be.

I am very happy with my education and I can honestly say that for me, becoming a Certified Massage Doula has been extremely rewarding and satisfying.

Colleen,

I also took Judith Koch's Prenatal Massage/Doula courses to prepare for my sister's birth 7 years ago.  It was the best thing I've done.  It gave me a foundation in which to comfort and help mothers-to-be. But I very much agree with  the others that recommend going beyond the home study course.  Getting real life experience and hands-on training is so very important! DONA is a great organization and reaching out to your local experts on the subject is invaluable!  I was able to shadow a DONA-approved Doula and participate in her classes and her training was far more valuable. Being part of those births is amazing! Having the confidence and knowledge to help each woman (and in turn their families) is a large responsibility and you want to make certain you never stop learning. Judith helped me begin my journey, but what I've learned since has really been what's allowed me the joy in all the birthing experiences I've been apart of year after year.  Best wishes on your search.