Should I become a CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANT (CLC) while in Nursing School?

[Ivy Black]

I am pre-nursing and will be starting my nursing classes in 2013. I am about to sign up for the CLC certification course offered here in Illinois through HealthyChildren.cc. Before I chose nursing as my primary focus, I was in administrative work. I want to use this certification to break into the hospital setting and also for income. If I am clear, a certification like this one can help with job positions in hospitals, clinics and WIC offices. After completing my BSN, my goal is Women's Health/Midwifery. I know that the major credential for this occupation is the IBCLC which take years of experience to obtain. My question is, is this credential (CLC) one that is respected, counts towards the IBCLC, will assist with job and volunteer placement and will be nationally recognized? I ask because after doing my research I found that there are a MILLION titles attached to this occupation (peer counselor, educator, consultant etc). If this is not a legitimate stepping stone in my healthcare career, I can save my money and look elsewher.

---Ivy :~)

[klone, MSN, RN]

I just want to clarify, the certification they offer is NOT certified lactation consultant, but certified lactation COUNSELOR. It may seem minor, but it's a very important distinction, and if you call the certification that of a consultant, rather than a counselor, you will step on many toes.

The CLC can possibly be a stepping stone, but most organizations that hire lactation professionals want IBCLCs, as you know. A better stepping stone would be to apply for nurse externships, or get a job as a CNA while in nursing school (and honestly, that will earn you more, steady income than a CLC would). That's just MHO.

IMO, the CLC is useful for RNs who work in OB who want to become better at counseling mothers with breastfeeding during the course of their day to day job, but don't want to commit to the time necessary for full IBCLC certification. It's for basic breastfeeding issues, and the CLC isn't meant to be an expert at complicated lactation problems. That is why the CLC is generally not sought after by organizations looking for lactation professionals - CLCs generally don't have the training necessary to handle complicated breastfeeding situations.

Kerry, RN IBCLC

[Ivy Black]

Thank you so much for that input Kerry! I will def take it into consideration. You made some good points and cleared up quite a few questions.

Ivy! :~)