Lactation Consultant Training
Program to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can register for the program?
A: Anyone with an interest in supporting breastfeeding families professionally.
Q: What are the goals of the program?
A: To provide a comprehensive, strong foundation in lactation support for individuals wishing to provide professional support and one day sit for the Exam to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
Q: Do I have to be a nurse or other healthcare professional?
A: No. There are pathways to certification that do not require training, education or certification as a healthcare professional.
Q: Will I be a certified Lactation Consultant after completing the series of workshops?
A: No. You will have the educational tools required to sit for the IBLCE Exam. The program itself provides no certification.
Q: How do I learn more about the certification process?
A: Eligibility requirements are outlined at the IBLCE website at:
http://americas.iblce.org/eligibilityRequirements_v2.php
In addition, our first session will include a phone conversation with Anna Utter of the IBLCE Board who will answer your questions.
Q: What is the time commitment?
A: Each month’s commitment should include a seminar (9am-5pm) and homework in preparation for the seminar, which might take anywhere from 6 to 9 hours. Mentorship/interning time will work according to whatever schedule and pace you work out with your mentor.
Q: What if I miss a session?
A: You can either attend the same session if and when it is next offered (hopefully in about a year), attend a separate conference or workshop on the subject(s), or create a self-study through research and reading on the subject.
Q: Is registration mandatory?
A: Registration is not mandatory, but will save you money if attending more than a few sessions. In addition, registration will help to ensure success of the program. If the number of attendees is insufficient, sessions will be cancelled.
Q: How will I find a mentor?
A: We are working hard to find and create possible mentorship experiences for our registrants. We will have a list of contact information for recertified IBCLC’s who are able to offer this commitment of time and energy. In addition, we are working with local WIC offices, midwifery offices and pediatricians to create possible learning/mentoring opportunities. In essence, we are helping with the first few steps in finding mentorship opportunities.
Q: How much will my mentoring/internship experience cost?
A: This will depend on the relationship and commitment that you create in conjunction with your mentor(s).
Q: What if I join in the middle of the year?
A: Participants can enter the program at any point—each person’s program is individualized according to their own schedule and needs. Our hope is that the program will have enough success to roll into an ongoing program. If it does last only one year, participants will need to locate or create their learning opportunities for missed sessions.
Q: How much can I expect the year’s educational program to cost?
A: Costs include registration, tuition, 3 required books, a fourth resource choice, and materials. Please consult separate costs sheet for additional information.
Q: Who are the instructors?
A: Instructors are recertified IBCLC’s and other professionals presenting on their areas of expertise and interest.
Q: What kind of work can I expect to find as a Lactation Consultant? What kind of work can I find if I am not also a certified health-care provider?
A: Lactation consultants may work privately, in hospitals, doctor’s offices, clinics, resource centers and more.
Q: Are there CEU’s for nurses?
A: We are in the process of applying for nursing CEU’s. It is our hope the sessions by mid-summer should be approved.
Q: What about the “Education in Human Lactation & Development” requirement on the IBLCE website? Where can I get those classes?
A: This program is designed specifically to meet this requirement.
Q. Where can I learn more about BirthMark's Lactation Consultant Training Program:
A: Class Schedule
Required Reading
Fees and Registration
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