10/19/2023
In an effort guide parents and those working in the field, this is a great summary of the difference between a Certified Lactation COUNSELOR and an Internationl Board Certified Lactation CONSULTANT. FYI: A counselor or educator cannot call themselves a lactation consultant.
"A Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) is a lower credential than IBCLC, appropriate for helping breastfeeding parents with simple problems. To obtain the CLC credential, a candidate only has to take a 4.5-day course and a test. The coursework is important, but it’s only “book learning,” and it only covers less than one week of material. They are not required to have graduated from high school or have any clinical experience with breastfeeding families. Their 2014-2015 training manual specifically states that, “CLCs are Certified Lactation Counselors, not ‘Consultants.’ ” The credential expires after three years and requires only 18 continuing education hours for renewal. CLCs are never required to retake the test. https://dianawest.com/ibclc/
