End-of-Life Doula Services

About Me

A smiling woman with short gray hair, sunglasses on her head, and a septum piercing, sitting outdoors at a park or market, holding a drink. She has a large tattoo of a wolf with geometric patterns and flowers on her upper arm, and a lizard on her shoulder. In the background, there are people, green trees, tents, and a brick building.

My name is Holly Metcalf (she/they) and I’m an INELDA-trained death doula. I love working with all kinds of folks to support end-of-life conversations, questions, and decisions. As a young-adult cancer survivor, a queer/trans human, and an ex-Christian who connects with my Higher Power through nature and ritual-making, I’m particularly passionate about working with folks who have similar experiences. I work with clients who have terminal illness, life-altering diagnoses, or questions about death.

I have previous experience as international affairs professional working on human rights and religious freedom, a Peace Corps Volunteer working with victims of domestic violence, a secondary educator working on education equity in Mississippi Public Schools, and a seminary student focused on queer, womanist, and feminist theology.

I’m located in Alexandria, VA and serve clients in the DMV area in-person. I'm open to providing virtual support to non-local clients. I'd love to meet you and have a conversation!

  • The work we do together can include serious and practical conversations about end of life decisions and legacy and funeral planning. It can include laughter, tears, anger, cursing, and silent companionship. It can include conversations exploring spirituality and personal beliefs about death. I love ritual-making and would love to help create rituals to help process change, release burdens, and provide reorientation. Part of what I love about death doula work is being able to meet new clients and tailor my approach to their needs.

  • I work with a range of individuals — some facing terminal diagnosis, some who just have questions about end-of-life preparations and planning, and others who are simply death curious or looking to discuss their own beliefs surrounding mortality. I’m happy to accompany you at any point on your journey. I can also support bio family and chosen family of the dying person, or those mourning a death or near-death experience.

    I’m very happy to answer questions and provide more information during a free consultation session if you’re curious to learn more!

  • I completed a Master's of Divinity degree at Wesley Theological Seminary and End-of-Life Doula Training through the International End of Life Doula Association.

  • Some clients prefer to pay an hourly fee while others prefer a package to cover a range of services. During our consultation session, we can discuss your needs and I can provide pricing options. My normal hourly fee is $80/hour.