Serena Soffer, End-of-Life Doula & Yogi / Sacred Passage Guide / Certified Life Planner
I would like to share my journey with you, as this is such personal work.
The first seeds for this work were planted in me at age 15, when I experienced my father’s difficult and traumatic death. They grew in my twenties, as I cared for my mother during her complex end-of-life journey, while I began a long and successful Broadway career.
In the 1990’s, my heart’s call to work with the dying could not be ignored. Between performances, I spent hundreds of hours providing hands-on care (including therapeutic touch and massage) for people dying of AIDs. At that time, AIDS hysteria was at its height and many people would not risk being in the same room with someone known to have AIDS, much less touch them or provide physical care. Over time I became the informal, “go-to” death doula in my circle and community, supporting many friends and relatives through the end of their lives.
Eventually I left my career as a performer, and focused on teaching yoga and dance, as my doula calling grew. In early 2025, I realized my dream of becoming a professional death doula. I am a certified End Of Life Doula and Grief Specialist through the International Doula Life Movement.
I meet people where they are, with unconditional acceptance, love and a gift for seeing what is most needed.
As a yogi and companion, I bring peace and comfort into confusing or chaotic times, creating calmness and order. I organize legacy projects, possessions, paperwork, schedules, and more. I provide comfort care, create sacred spaces, orchestrate vigils, conduct rituals, accompany families through grief and cater to each individual families needs. I liaise or advocate with agencies (including hospice and/or funeral services) when appropriate. I help people communicate and connect with their dying loved one and each other – even across differences, conflicts and boundaries. With the understanding that there are no “do overs” in the end of life, my goal is to support the dying person and their loved ones in making the most of this precious, sacred time.
Contact me (below) to discuss how I might be able to help you during this precious time.
About Serena…
Asbury Park, New Jersey & Surrounding Areas
Virtual & Phone Sessions Available.
Contact me to talk about your situation.
“Our grief is as individual as our lives.” - Elizabeth Kubler Ross
Diversity & Inclusion
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status. We support and provide nonjudgmental care to all our clients and families. We will support you and meet you and your family where you are, right now.