Lactation Consultant Courses

klone, MSN, RN · Apr 29, 2014

Yes, there is a difference. A lactation counselor, lactation educator, breastfeeding counselor, etc, are not protected titles, and there is no standard of education. For that matter, a lactation consultant is not officially protected as a title, but when you say "lactation consultant," most people assume IBCLC, so it's frowned upon to use that title unless you are an IBCLC.

If you are wanting to get an actual certification, but you don't want to become and IBCLC, I would recommend looking into CLE or CLC certification.

klone, MSN, RN · Apr 29, 2014

Here's info on CLC education/certification: Lactation Counselor Training Course

And here's info on one certified lactation educator program: Lactation Educator Counselor Training Program - UC San Diego Extension

TexRN, BSN, RN · Apr 30, 2014

Here's info on CLC education/certification: Lactation Counselor Training Course
And here's info on one certified lactation educator program: Lactation Educator Counselor Training Program - UC San Diego Extension

I took the CLEC class offered by UCSD, I loved it, it's very informative. It is costly, around $800 for everything, but its very thorough and rewarding. Plus, it's recognized by IBCLE so if you wanted to continue on through their program to do the LC program they offer, you'd be well prepared!

nrsyann · Apr 30, 2014

Thanks for the info! I have an email out to UCSD to get a little more detail. Their next online course starts 6/30 and I was hoping to start before then. Sounds like a great program though!

BeccaznRN, RN · Apr 30, 2014

I also used UCSD Extension for both CLEC and lactation consultant education. Highly recommend!

Yamamama · May 2, 2014

I have been an IBCLC for 5 years and working with mothers and babies for many more. I worked very hard for my credentia,l literally taking years to achieve it and although the term " lactation consultant" is not trademarked it is usually meant to mean an IBCLC. It can be very confusing to other professionals and more importantly to families when "lactation consultant" is used and an individual has taken a weekend, week long, or online course. Saying you are (or will be) a lactation educator, counselor, or supporter is the preferred terminology.

I commend you on your commitment to families and seeking to provide more evidence based lactation care. However, IBCLCs are the gold standard in lactation care. Please foster relationships with those in your area so that you may refer to them for situations beyond counseling and education.

May I also ask, why you cannot see yourself furthering your lactation education and knowledge by attaining the IBCLC credential in the future? It has been a very rewarding profession.

TexRN, BSN, RN · May 2, 2014

I have been an IBCLC for 5 years and working with mothers and babies for many more. I worked very hard for my credentia,l literally taking years to achieve it and although the term " lactation consultant" is not trademarked it is usually meant to mean an IBCLC. It can be very confusing to other professionals and more importantly to families when "lactation consultant" is used and an individual has taken a weekend, week long, or online course. Saying you are (or will be) a lactation educator, counselor, or supporter is the preferred terminology.
I commend you on your commitment to families and seeking to provide more evidence based lactation care. However, IBCLCs are the gold standard in lactation care. Please foster relationships with those in your area so that you may refer to them for situations beyond counseling and education.
May I also ask, why you cannot see yourself furthering your lactation education and knowledge by attaining the IBCLC credential in the future? It has been a very rewarding profession.

I appreciate your input. (I'm not the OP) I feel the same way, I don't like how anyone can call themselves an LC. I proudly consider myself a lactation educator because I earned that credential not only with a pretty penny, but many hours spent studying under the care of an IBCLC. I feel doulas may think the same way as their credential isn't protected either. It's a disservice to woman to refer to yourself as an LC if you aren't, and I think that's why it's common to hear bad things about LCs. I'm glad you feel the profession is rewarding, I hope to be in your shoes in the near future!!

nrsyann · May 2, 2014

That was part of my question; the difference between counselor, consultant, educator, etc. I think I have a firm grasp on it right now. As far as not seeing myself becoming IBCLC certified in the future, I'm just wanting to take steps right now to determine if it is something I want to pursue. Because of this, I went ahead and enrolled in a program that will give me 45 credit hours and a good taste of what the field entails. My main goal is to get a job on a PP floor and I know this will be beneficial and crucial to that. Thank you for your help everyone!