Jennifer Chivas
RN, IBCLC248-207-3070
lakewoodranchlactation@gmail.com
Rebecca Goff
MSN, APRN, IBCLC321-866-8484
rebecca@spacecoastlactation.com
Lisa Moeller
RN, IBCLC352-552-2025
mtdoralisa@gmail.com
Helping Mom's grow healthy babies is my passion. I was blessed to breastfeed 4 babies myself for a total of 6 years. I am a Mother Baby nurse, Post partum nurse and a IBCLC. Please reach out if I can help!
Sonya Coleman
BSN, IBCLC904-702-1538
Sonya.Coleman2@hcahealthcare.com
Bethany Clark
IBCLC850-757-5775
bethany590@gmail.com
850-769-8341
I am an IBCLC at Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center and the Bay County WIC program both located in Panama City, FL. I am also a member of Breastfeed Bay, our local breastfeeding taskforce.
Heidi Agostinho
Ph.D, IBCLC, RLC305-970-0858
heidil5@aol.com
http://www.babystepsflorida.com
This organization vision is to create a community of support and resources necessary to initiate and maintain exclusive breastfeeding from birth.
Lottie Davis
RN, BSN, IBCLC850-895-9922
lottie@lottieslactation.com
Lottie is thrilled to bring her practice to the beautiful emerald coast. She is providing office and home visit consultations. She is also providing one on one and group prenatal breastfeeding classes. A free weekly breastfeeding support group will also be available. Lottie has 35 years of experience working with infants, beginning in the NICU setting. Lottie's primary goal is to help each individual mother reach her personal breastfeeding goal.
South Miami Hospital
Jacquelyng567@gmail.com
Home & Hospital Visits, Prenatal Classes. Experience with lactation throughout several stages and medical conditions including premature, late premature, newborns infants, and toddlers.
Maggie Rezende
IBCLC305-975-3995
maggierezende1@gmail.com
Rachel Nieves
RN, BSN, IBCLC, IME904-891-8228
nievesrachel874@gmail.com
Worked as a breastfeeding counselor for 13 years in Puerto Rico with the WIC Program, 20 years as the Lactation Consultant at Naval Hospital Jacksonville. Will educate the couple prenatally about breastfeeding, postpartum visit and follow-up visit as needed. Educate on infant massage also available. English & Spanish speaking. Available in Jacksonville, Orange Park, Green Cove Springs area and St John's counties.
Maureen Pahl
BSN, ANLC, IBCLC786-527-6866
maureenp@baptisthealth.net
Memorial
904-702-1538
rjparr34@gmail.com
9:30 am- 5 pm Inpatient and outpatient consultations Breastfeeding support group- third Friday 1030 - 1200 - complimentary Breastfeeding community classes at Memorial - Simple Guidelines to Breastfeeding ( childbirth classes) Speciality - working with premature babies, SNS"
Annette Leary
RN, IBCLC
learyja@bellsouth.net
Good Samaritan Medical Center
561-650-6439
kathleen.wegner@tenethealth.com
Kristen Reynolds
RN, IBCLC321-263-5730
kristentreynolds@gmail.com
Laura Moylan
IBCLC, CLC478-361-8399
nursingmomsluv@gmail.com
Patricia Koplin
IBCLC386-316-1499
Patricia.Koplin@flhealth.gov
Amanda DeWeese
MPH, CPH, IBCLC, LLL Leader8135750624
amandad@lactationlink.com
https://lactationlink.com/consultant/amandadeweese/
Breastfeeding education and clinical lactation assessment and management with an IBCLC. Services include home visits, phone consults, e-consultations (via secure video chat), prenatal and postpartum breastfeeding education, flange fitting consults, and online breastfeeding classes! Book appts online at: https://lactationlink.as.me/amandad
Tangela Boyd
IBCLC407-680-8045
tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com
Hours vary - please call to schedule
Corinne Carlson
RN, IBCLC850-776-9204
corinnecarlsonlactation@gmail.com
Private practice, in-office or in-home consultations. 38 years of Registered Nurse experience in Mother-Baby, Special Care Nursery, NICU, and Lactation. International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, IBCLC since 2014. I love helping Moms and Babies figure out how to breastfeed better for as long as they want to!
Andrea Blanco
IBCLC3059285868
andrea@themilkcollective.co
https://www.themilkcollective.co/
Personalized, compassionate, evidence-based care serving Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
Trezi Luty
MS.RD.IBCLC.RLC.203-733-4845
taluty@yahoo.com
I have been helping out thousands of breastfeeding dyads since 2000 and this is my passion. I have been an IBCLC since 2005 and do home visits in the Jacksonville vicinity. Breastmilk is the most beautiful gift a Mom can give her baby. Reach out if their is a need for my lactation expertise.
Sophia Brown
IBCLC813-822-5534
sophiabrownibclc@gmail.com
https://sophiabrownibclc.wixsite.com/website
I have been a Registered Nurse for 25 years and a mother of 3 wonderful boys. I have worked as a neonatal nurse for the past 14 years and I now specialize in breastfeeding. My mission is to Educate, Encourage & Empower moms in all aspects of Breastfeeding. Breastfeeding technique, support and management for moms' and their family. Breastfeeding infants with anatomical challenges, breastfeeding multiples, breastfeeding infants with neurological disorders, premature infants, low milk supply/over supply, inverted and flat nipples latch issues, post NICU challenges, teen moms, tongue tie and other concerns related to breastfeeding.
Kathy Soler-Sala
IBCLC9043926179
coastalkathy@gmail.com
Private Practice, Home Visits, phone consults, corporate lactation, hospital grade pump rentals
Beth McHoul
IBCLC727-220-8433
bethmchoul@gmail.com
IBCLC providing home visits Breastfeeding education classes
Sharon Douglas
ARNP, IBCLC910-495-6174
Profnurse55@gmail.com
Christy Beitel
BSN, IBCLC850-278-3995
christy.beitel@ascension.org
Inpatient breastfeeding support. Prenatal breastfeeding class. Outpatient breastfeeding consults by appointment. Breastfeeding support group.
Kendal Vaughn
Rn-Bsn-IBCLC850-390-6896
kendalvaughnibclc@gmail.com
Over 10 years of experience as a mother/baby nurse, and over 5 years experience as an IBCLC. Private practice. Home visits, virtual visits, prenatal and breastfeeding classes
Amy Hammant
BS, IBCLC, CD, CCCE813-892-8990
info@breastfeedtampa.com
Full services breasfeeding and lactation care.
Christine Smith
IBCLC
ChristineSmithIBCLC@gmail.com
Lactation consultant offering private consultations and weight checks. Hospital grade breast pump rentals. Breastfeeding equipment. Telehealth available.
Sarah Schooler
MSN, RN, IBCLC813-291-4695
sarah@thrivelactationcenter.com
Breastfeeding is the most beneficial and natural way to feed your baby, but it is not always easy! Let us help. We offer in-home visits, virtual services, group classes, and lactation support to families in the Greater Fort Myers and Naples area.
Jean Tretler
L-35755410-262-8434
info@LactationAssociatesOfStAugustine.com
www.LactationAssociatesOfStAugustine.com
Breastfeeding consultations for babies and their families, provided by a Registered Nurse and Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
Sandy McCroan
IBCLC850-872-4666 ext 9693
sandy.mccroan@flhealth.gov
850-747-5775 ext
Breastfeeding and Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Coordinator for FDOH Bay County WIC Program. Co-Chair of the Breastfeed Bay the Breastfeeding Task Force for Bay and Surrounding Counties.
Ana Estorino Uribasterra
IBCLC9544354471
ana@lovingstartlc.com
ww.lovingstartlactationservices.com
I am an International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) in private practice in Southwest Broward County. I have extensive training and experience helping families to overcome breastfeeding challenges. My practical, evidence-based approach empowers parents to make informed decisions and achieve their breastfeeding goals. I take great care to provide nurturing, compassionate care.
Paula Meek
RNC-OB, IBCLC, CCE3862313152
paula.meek@adventhealth.com
Mary Wachira
IBCLC352-513-6060
Mary.wachira@flhealth.gov
For the health of Citrus County the Florida Department of Health in Citrus County offers the Infant Feeding Line 352-513-6060, 7 days a week 8 am to 9 pm. The IBCLC is available to all residents in need of Lactation services as a no-cost service. Please call 352-513-6060 for appointments or phone support.
St, Lucie Medical Center
fbonner@hotmail.com
Monday-Friday 9 am- 5 pm Full service Lactation Consultant Assist with difficulty latching, low milk supply, going back to work, use of breast pumps and re-lactation. Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes offered.
Tampa Breastfeeding Center LLC
813-892-8990
amyhammantibclc@gmail.com
Mon- Fri 8 am-6pm, Sat-Sun 8 am-1pm, We are a group of professional Board Certified Lactation Specialists (IBCLC) dedicated to providing affordable, non-judgmental, evidence based lactation care for you and your baby. We will gladly work with you and any support you may have, including your pediatrician, to resolve any lactation or feeding issues so that you can meet your breastfeeding goals. As part of our service, our practice currently provides home visits and clinic visits that consist of: Prenatal education Basic breastfeeding technique and management Back to work lactation care and education Lactation management of infants with anatomical challenges Breastfeeding with multiples Breastfeeding infants with neurological disorders and genetic challenges Premature infants and pumping protocols Low milk supply/oversupply Inverted and flat nipples Maternal health conditions Latch issues NICU to home breastfeeding care Failure to thrive Postpartum depression Teens and lactation, nutrition education Tongue and lip ties and post revision care Support groups and classes Hospital grade pump rentals Tampa Breastfeeding Center is currently located in Tampa, FL and serving the surrounding areas. We are also a preferred provider for Aetna and Tricare."
Jennifer Jones
RN, IBCLC561-338-3322
jenniferteachesbreastfeeding@gmail.com
Office visit In home consultations Adoption lactation post breast reduction lactation breastfeeding and milk production difficulties breastfeeding multiples
St, Lucie Medical Center
fbonner@hotmail.com
Monday-Friday 9 am- 5 pm Full service Lactation Consultant Assist with difficulty latching, low milk supply, going back to work, use of breast pumps and re-lactation. Prenatal Breastfeeding Classes offered.
Rebecca Goff
ARNP, IBCLC321-866-8484
rebecca@lactationlink.com
https://lactationlink.com/consultant/rebecca-goff/
By appointment only, in-person consults, e-consults
Laene Keith
IBCLC, SLP321-271-7990
laene@lactationlink.com
https://lactationlink.com/consultant/laene-keith/
Creating confident families on the Space Coast. Dual certified speech pathologist and lactation consultant offering in home and secure video consultations on the Space Coast of Florida.
Jess Willis
IBCLC904-323-1418
jess@sunshinelactation.com
Lactation consultant in private practice offering various classes, lactation home visits, virtual consults, babywearing consults, breast pumps, and more in the Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia area.
Amy Fritsch
60676850-296-7963
amy@lactationuncovered.com
RN, IBCLC who provides lactation services & education to families and healthcare providers.
Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center
850-747-7898
Bernadette.Kennedy@hcahealthcare.com
Kathy Bradley
L-17890321-213-1112
kathy@childbirthconcierge.com
As mother of 5 children my experience is not only personal but professional for 29 years. My goal is to provide evidence based information while delivering your peace of mind with practical support! I spent 14 years at Winnie Palmer Hospital before moving into private practice!
Alanna Dixon
IBCLC8505102614
alanna_dixon@yahoo.com
http://www.upperkeyslactation.com/
Private practice, in-home, lactation services.
Fatima Gonzalez
IBCLC7868122536
hello@mjlactation.com
Office, Home and Hospital Consults *Privileges at Mercy Hospital
Sabrina Barber
BSN, RN, IBCLC407-748-6439
sabrina@motherlylovelactation.com
My name is Sabrina Barber. I am a Registered Nurse, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and a mother of two beautiful children. I have experience assisting mothers with breastfeeding in a hospital setting, through government funded programs and in the home environment. My passion intensified when I encountered feeding difficulties with children of my own. I was inspired to take my clinical knowledge and pair it with continuing education in order to refine my craft as an IBCLC. Every mother and baby have a unique story to tell. It would be an honor to support you by providing both clinical expertise and practical advice. My goal is to help you navigate your lactation journey. TeleHealth Consults worldwide and Home Visits in the Orlando, FL area for: Prenatal Education, Feeding Difficulty, Return to Work/Pumping, Re-Lactation, Induced Lactation, Phone Support
Jen Morrison
IBCLC, RN8134215814
jen@magicalmomentsbreastfeeding.com
Eden Nevarez
IBCLC3528970375
e@bondingbabylactation.com
Providing in-home lactation care and support to Ocala families. In-network provider for Aetna insurance subscribers (coverage may vary depending on specific Aetna plans). Please call or e-mail to book an appointment.
Jennie Rae Hill-Lanziero
IBCLC, RLC352-585-6368
JennieRae.Hill-Lanziero@flhealth.gov
352-540-6924
All mothers looking for lactation support may call the Hernando County WIC Infant Feeding Line at 352-540-6924 for free over the phone lactation counseling. Those mother's who qualify or are currently enrolled in the Hernando County WIC program may call to schedule a one on one lactation consultation with the International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant. Common topics discussed are as follows: low milk supply, breast refusal/baby will not latch, painful latch, poor weight gain, tongue tie evaluation, mastitis/engorgement, nipple trauma, breast pumps/nipple shields, return to work/school, inducing lactation, use of an SNS, and how to bottle feed the breastfed baby.
Brooke Simmons
IBCLC, CPST407-221-4475
brooke@brookeibclc.com
Brooke Simmons is an IBCLC who is dedicated to helping moms reach their own personal breastfeeding goals. Whether it is your first pregnancy, or your fifth, Brooke is here to help you reach your personal breastfeeding goals. Her support is available in person, in your home, which allows you and your baby to feel totally at ease. Services range from position and latch issue resolution, gaining confidence, supply increase, pumping concerns and efficacy, prenatal breastfeeding orientation, and helping you navigate your new breastfeeding relationship.
Christy Vergara
MS, IBCLC(321) 414-9197
hello@brevardlactationwellness.com
www.brevardlactationwellness.com
Welcome to our women's wellness practice, dedicated to helping moms and soon-to-be moms reach their health, wellness, birthing, and breastfeeding goals. We are experienced wellness professionals who understand the challenges of motherhood. The truth is, we already know you're an amazing mom. We also know even amazing moms sometimes need extra support and guidance. In-Home and e-Consults available. Book online or call.
Tricia Elbl
MS, IBCLC, RLC, LLLL630-329-6643
triciaelbl@gmail.com
I am passionate about helping families of all compositions with breastfeeding, from pre-conception counseling, preparations during pregnancy, after birth, to back to work or weaning consults. I am experienced with muliples (twins and triplets), down's syndrome, prematurity, cleft palate, induced lactation, tongue tie, pumping and weaning consults. I have worked in the NICU and on the hospital postpartum floor, as well as in private practice and as a volunteer breastfeeding supporter. I look forward to helping families meet their goals.
Lisa Moeller
L-132898352-552-2025
mtdoralisa@gmail.com
Hey there, I'm Lisa, I am an RN and an IBCLC. I am passionate about breastfeeding our babies! I am a blessed Mama with 4 babies of my own that I breastfed for a total of 6 years. I have worked in a hospital setting for the past 5 years and am now home caring for grand babies. I can help with latch issues, sore nipples, engorgement, breast refusal, plugged ducts, mastitis and much more. I am also a great resource for information about preparing for a newborn and breastfeeding education as I taught these classes in my previous job at a large hospital. Reach out to me if I can help! I would love to help support your goals for breastfeeding your baby.
Juana Rodriguez*
239-851-0909
juana@lactationwhisperer.com
Doing virtual counseling.Monday-Friday 8am - 2 pm, Saturday 9 am - 2 pm provide home visits or virtual visits for lactation consult. provide hospital grade pump rental, sale of breastfeeding items such as SNS, THERASHELLS, and MEDELA replacement parts" along with SPECTRA pump parts, Hands free bras sold during home consultation.
Ellen Haynes
49713904-602-1004
ellen.haynes@ascension.org
Baby Friendly Hospital Lactation Consultant. Virtual consults, virtual Mom's support group monthly, email or call for info.
Christina Schaefer BSN, RN, IBCLC, RLC, CPD
850-259-1105
christina.rn.ibclc@gmail.com
Providing breastfeeding education and support to the Florida Panhandle for over a decade. Consults are booked for client convenience in home, hospital, office, or virtual. Breastpump rentals available.
Amy Harvick
APRN, CCE, IBCLC352-415-4445
babyfirstconsultations@gmail.com
Virtual breastfeeding consultations In-home breastfeeding consults within the Clermont, Minneola, and Groveland areas Prenatal educational classes via virtual platform
Linda Piper
RN, CBC, IBCLC352-415-4445
babyfirstconsultations@gmail.com
Virtual breastfeeding consultations In-home breastfeeding consultations within the Clermont, Minneola, and Groveland areas All Prenatal Classes offered via virtual platform
Lisa Wallace
RN, IBCLC352-323-2095
lwallace@centflhealth.org
https://www.leesburgregional.org/
Hospital Practice At UF Health Leesburg Hospital in hospital support is available as well as private consultations post discharge. Baby Café are weekly on Wednesday. Your breastfeeding Journey starts with free classes offered: Newborn Care, Breastfeeding, Child Birth, Lamaze and followed by a hospital tour. Upon Admissions to our unit we have a dedicated team of IBCLC's who help welcome your baby. UF Health Leesburg Hospital promotes Baby-Friendly Initiatives.
Tamiqua Torres
Certified Lactation Couselor
info@latchinginlove.com
Non-hands on provider. Certified Lactation Counselor providing In-Home Lactation Services to Lactating Parents in the surrounding areas of Orlando (Alafaya, Waterford park, Avalon, Winter Park) For other areas please contact directly.
Ashley Ginther
Certified Breastfeeding Specialist3523232095
aginther@centflhealth.org
Hospital practice at UF Health Leesburg Hospital. Baby Café" USA weekly on Wednesdays 10 am - 12 noon. Your breastfeeding journey starts with free classes offered in newborn care, breastfeeding, childbirth, and Lamaz, as well as a tour of the hospital. Upon admission we have dedicated IBCLC’s and other breastfeeding support staff to welcome your baby. UF Health Leesburg Hospital follows Baby-Friendly initiatives.
Kristen Fanfant
CLC, MPH
milkmaidssoflo@gmailcom
https://www.facebook.com/milkmaidsSoFlo
Virtual breastfeeding support, private counseling, and group classes. Certified Lactation Counselors with Masters in Public Health and Registered Nurse
Govinda Bilges
CLC, MPH, RN
milkmaidssoflo@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/milkmaidsSoFlo
Virtual breastfeeding support, private counseling and group classes. Certified Lactation Counselors, Masters in Public Health and Registered Nurse
Amy Lewis
CLC7274894750
hello@buddhabellybirth.com
Non-hands on provider. Providing home or hospital lactation visits and breastfeeding classes. Certified lactation counselor (Center for Breastfeeding / Healthy Children).
Rachel Clark
Accredited La Leche League Leader954-778-3301
rachelruthclark@gmail.com
Our mission is to help parents to breastfeed/chestfeed/human milk feed, through parent-to-parent support, encouragement, information, and education, and to promote a better understanding of such practices as an important element in the healthy development of the baby and family.
Breastfeeding USA
https://www.facebook.com/BFUSANCF
Breastfeeding USA - North Central Florida Chapter Proving evidence-based information and support Stormy stormy.miller@breastfeedingusa.org (352) 354-3725 Phone Calls, Text, Email Sarah sarah.graham@breastfeedingusa.org (386) 454-4599 Phone Calls, Text, Email Ashley ashley.hamby@breastfeedingusa.org (352) 247-2333 Text, Email https://breastfeedingusa.org/content/north-central-florida-chapter
Melanie Conrad
LLL561-436-5891
mcm921@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/LaLecheLeagueofIndianRiverCounty
Meetings are currently virtual on the 3rd Monday at 10:00 am Vero Beach, and the 4th Saturday at 10:30am Sebastian. Facebook- La Leche League of Indian River County.
Kristen Fanfant Natalia Snelling
krgunther@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/LLLofLWBB
Free mother to mother breastfeeding support. We meet the first Saturday of every month at 10am.
North Central Florida Chapter
stormy.miller@breastfeedingusa.org
Christina Schaefer
850-259-1105
llleaderchristina@gmail.com
http://www.lllflorida.com/lalecheleague/
Meetings are held at Cafe Bienville in Niceville at 10am on the second Saturday of every month. *In person meetings have been suspended due to the COVID pandemic. Please email for more information*
Bonnie Martinelli
772-569-7939
clientservices@carenetirc.org
Care Net Pregnancy Center of Indian River County provides free breastfeeding classes and lactation consultations through in-person, or virtual options. Please give us a call at 772-569-7939 or email us at clientservices@carenetirc.org for more information.
WIC Citrus County
3524235339 ext 3524235339
Robinann.chisman@flhealth.gov
Time: 9am - 11am
Charge: FREE
Location: Crystal River Library, 8619 W. Crystal Street
3524235339 ext
https://www.citruslibraries.org/
Currently suspended - Mom to Mom Support Group, 4th Tuesday
South Lake Hospital
amy.harvick@orlandohealth.com
Time: Wed 10 am
Charge: Free
Location:
La Leche League of Central Pasco
Location: Land O Lakes
Time:
Charge: Free
WIC Citrus County
352-423-5339
Robinann.chisman@flhealth.gov
Time:
Charge: FREE
Location: Inverness WIC Office, 130 N Montgomery Avenue
Currently Suspended Mom to Mom Support Group Every Month on the Second Friday from 9:30am to 11:00am Every Month on the Third Tuesday from 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Hernando County WIC
352-585-6368
JennieRae.Hill-Lanziero@flhealth.gov
Time: 7:00 PM
Charge: FREE
Location: Medical Arts Building Room 105 at Bayfront Hospital Spring Hill
352-540-6924
Hernando County WIC hosts a FREE breastfeeding support group open to the public every Thursday night starting at 7PM. All family members or friends welcome to join mother and baby. Mothers do not have to be on WIC to come to the group. The group meets at Bayfront Hospital Spring Hill, room 105. Topics change weekly: Getting Started with Breastfeeding, Latch Tips, Comfort Techniques for Newborns, Pumping Tips, Making More Milk, Infant Feeding with Bottle, Returning to Work or School, Babywearing, and more. Questions may call Jennie Rae at 352-540-6924. A local online support group also available and found on Facebook: Hernando's Breast Friends
UF Health Leesburg Hospital
352-323-2095
lwallace@centflhealth.org
Charge: FREE
Location: In classroom B of 404 S. Childs Street, Leesburg, FL 34748
Time: Wednesday 10am-12 pm
https://www.leesburgregional.org/services/womens-health/
Baby Cafés are FREE resources for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, offering: •Support from specifically-trained staff •Opportunities to share experiences and make friends •Refreshments, comfortable seating, and open-forum discussions ***No appointment is needed***
Florida Department of Health Orange County
4077234298
Indian River County WIC program
772-794-7400 ext 1441
Linda.Roberts2@flhealthy.gov
ext
WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding an infant, women who have just had a baby, and infants and children up to 5 years of age. WIC offers free breastfeeding support and education to it's clients, and offers free breastfeeding support groups for local families.
Duval County WIC
904-253-2361
patricia.holder@flhealth.gov
Florida Department of Health in Pasco County WIC
813-364-5818
Rachel.romero@flhealth.gov
FDOH Hendry Glades Counties WIC Program
863-633-9401
maria.richter@flhealth.gov
http://hendry.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/clinical-and-nutrition-services/wic/index.html
I am the Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Coordinator and Breastfeeding Coodinator for Hendry Glades WIC. I provide breastfeeding support, breastfeeding classes, consultations, and breast pumps to WIC clients. I also provide staff breastfeeding trainings, breastfeeding peer counselor trainings, and assist those in becoming eligible for the IBCLE.
Edit Provider
IBCLC
Lactation Consultants who have the initials IBCLC or RLC after their names have completed rigorous training, including hundreds of hours of supervised experience, and passed a certifying exam given by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners, which is independently accredited. This is the highest level of professional lactation qualification, and those holding it are required to recertify every five years. An IBCLC may charge a fee, which may not be covered by insurance.
Read more about the IBCLC credential here.
Breastfeeding Counselors and Educators
Breastfeeding Counselors and Educators come from a variety of backgrounds and training programs. Such training includes classes or coursework, and may or may not include hands-on experience with nursing mothers and babies. A person listed in this section may hold a certificate saying they have completed a course or series of courses; the certificate may also show that the person passed an exam.
These Counselors and Educators will list credentials like Certified Lactation Counslor (CLC), Certified Lacation Specialist, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Certified Lactation Educator (CLE), etc. Because these are offered by different organizations, with different requirements for training and for certification, it is best to read about the training of each type of Breastfeeding Counselor and Educator here.
Free Community Breastfeeding Support Counselors
Free Community Breastfeeding Support Counselors are women who have received training from a specific organization, and have often breastfed their own babies. Some of these organizations require the Counselor to keep up-to-date with continuing education. These Counselors provide support about situations that may arise over the normal course of breastfeeding, and can guide a nursing mother in seeking help from a professional when needed. They may be available for phone help, in support group settings, and will sometimes provide home visits. This support is usually free (some may ask for coverage of expenses like parking if required when doing a home visit).
Free Community Breastfeeding Support Counslers may be trained by national organizations like Breastfeeding USA and La Leche League, or local ones. Read more about various volunteer training programs here.
Medical Professional
Medical Professionals listed on ZipMilk are people who have a medical credential and have expressed an interest in breastfeeding. They might include doctors, midwives, osteopaths, or dentists.
As with non-medical practitioners, the most rigorous professional certification in breastfeeding is the IBCLC. Doctors may also be members or fellows of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, a world-wide organization of MDs interested in breastfeeding. Please note that a medical credential by itself does not show that the person has breastfeeding expertise. A Medical Professional who is listed here should tell you about their additional experience or training in breastfeeding.
Read more about various credentials you may see in addition to a practitioners medical degree here.
Support Group
Support Groups on ZipMilk might be led or facilitated by a person from one of several different backgrounds. The person might be a volunteer counselor, IBCLC, Peer Counselor or CLC, or something else - feel free to ask about a facilitator's training if it is not clearly stated.
Support Groups offer a chance to meet other mothers and get advice on breastfeeding from both peers and experts. Group times and locations are subject to change. Please call to confirm these before attending a meeting. Groups run by volunteers are usually free. Groups run by hospitals or businesses may have a charge or require registration.
Read more about the training of the people who might run these Support Groups here.
WIC Breastfeeding Coordinator
WIC Breastfeeding Coordinators oversee programs that support breastfeeding mothers enrolled in the federal program for Women, Infants, and Children. Many WIC offices have peer counselors who can provide support for nursing families. Search ZipMilk for your local WIC office to find out what services are available.
Read more about the training program for WIC Peer Counselors here.