IBCLCs provide expert breastfeeding and lactation care, promote changes that support breastfeeding and help reduce the risks of not breastfeeding. 

International Board Certified Lactation Consultants function and contribute as members of the maternal-child health team. We provide care in a variety of settings, while making appropriate referrals to other health professionals and community support resources.

Candidates must meet ALL of the requirements of the primary pathways:

Four full years of post-secondary education, or a bachelors, masters, or doctoral degree; plus a minimum of 2500 hours of practice as a breastfeeding consultant; plus a minimum of 30 hours of education specific to breastfeeding within three (3) years immediately prior to taking the exam.

Or

They must have an Associate degree, including diploma RN (at least 2 years academic credit); minimum of 4000 hours practice as a breastfeeding consultant; minimum 30 hours of continuing education related to breastfeeding within the 3 years before sitting for the exam.

Registered Nurses (RN) follow the medical model for treatment and use universal medical language used by healthcare facilities and insurance companies. Additionally, RN IBCLC’s are able to get in contract with insurance companies whereas IBCLC’s who are non-RN may need provide you with an out-of-network bill.  As a Registered Nurse, I can give you expert advice on breastfeeding but also medical guidance on infant development and behavior.

I am currently credentialed and accepting Aetna and CDPHP. Additional credentialing is in process. Insurance companies are required to reimburse for at least 1 in-person lactation appointment by law. Pricing structure does vary based on appointment type. I can provide a super-bill to all other clients who pay out of pocket and which you can submit to your insurance for out-of-network reimbursement. I also accept HSA and FSA cards.

Though I am located in Ulster County, I am available to do home visits within a 60-mile radius of Woodstock.

Initial visit is typically 60 minutes but more time can be added if needed. If more than one concern is identified a follow-up will be recommended.

Follow-up visits are less than 60 minutes and cannot be extended.

Virtual visits are 45 minutes. 

I always recommend you reach out to your doctor or midwife for any emergency medications or prescriptions. If you desire, I will work closely with your doctor and do my best to stay in communication with you and your baby's doctors once care is established.

Once you make an appointment, I will email you forms which need to be completed prior to our meeting. This will give me insight into any issues or concerns you may have prior to my arrival. Please note: If you are requesting a latch check, make sure the baby is hungry and has not fed 2-3 hours prior to my arrival. 

Yes you can schedule with me ahead of time to arrange for this. Typically however, my philosophy is to “Avoid Take-Over Behavior”. As an individual working in the caring fields we often have the need to “mother” others, to protect and guide, and to be the expert, and sometimes that is not the best approach.

I believe we can work together prenatally to best prepare you for the delivery. If we are able to connect prenatally, I encourage scheduling a postpartum visit 3-5 days after you are home. Remember, only the mother is the expert where her baby is concerned and I can help you prepare you for the experience.

EXCEPTION TO THIS RULE: If you know you will deliver a preterm and your baby will go to the NICU, then a timely initial consultation in hospital is paramount and I highly recommend having me for an initial visit day of delivery.

Cancelling within less than 24 hours cannot be reimbursed and will be applied to the credit card on file. It is highly encouraged to reschedule instead of cancelling. For example, you may feel confident on day 3 and not need a visit, but you can reschedule that visit for week 1 as a touch point to make sure you are on track with your goals and baby weight.

Unfortunately I do not offer phone support at this time. Appointments are recommended for personalized care.