Knowledge & support
Resources
Trusted information, helpful links, and answers to the questions I hear most often.
Common questions
FAQ
A Certified Lactation Support Provider (CLSP)) is a non-clinical lactation education and counseling professional, credentialed through GOLD Lactation Academy. A CLSP provides education, guidance and support, and referrals when needed, but does not perform clinical assessment, diagnose, or prescribe.
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is the highest-tier lactation professional. An IBCLC performs comprehensive lactation assessments and manages complex situations. CLSPs and IBCLCs work together — if your situation needs clinical care, I will refer you to an IBCLC. If you are working with an IBCLC and need additional help between appointments, I can provide that support.
Examples of situations I will refer to a IBCLC: Cleft lip or palate, significantly preterm infant, failure to thrive, severe birth injury, breast health concerns, recurring mastitis, inducing lactation. I do not prescribe the use of a nipple shield, but I do have trial shields in various sizes and shapes for mothers already using one.
I am not able to bill insurance at this time; however, as a CLSP, I am able to offer my clients an affordable out of pocket rate. Many IBCLCs also do not accept insurance, although this is changing. Lactation support coverage varies widely by insurer and plan. I recommend checking with your insurer in advance. Washington State Medicaid covers some lactation consultant services — contact your plan for details.
No referral needed. You can book directly through the Booking page. If your midwife, OB, or pediatrician has recommended lactation support, I'm happy to work collaboratively with them — just let me know at the time of booking.
Ideally between 32–36 weeks of pregnancy, though I can accommodate earlier or later depending on availability. The class is designed to give you enough time to absorb the information before baby arrives while still being close enough to feel relevant and timely.
Your feeding choice is yours and it will be completely respected. Many families use combination feeding, and many choose formula. I can provide education on safe formula preparation and feeding, and I'll never pressure you to continue breastfeeding if it isn't right for your family.
Absolutely. I work with all families and use the language and terms you prefer. Please note on your intake form or at booking how you'd like to be addressed, and I'll follow your lead throughout our time together. Please note I'm unable to assist with induced lactation at this time, but I am happy to offer referrals.
I serve the greater Seattle area in Washington State. Please contact me with your location and I'll confirm whether I cover your area. Travel fees may apply for visits beyond a certain radius — this will be disclosed at the time of booking.
I offer free classes to provide accessible education and support to families in the community. These classes cover a range of topics related to breastfeeding and preparing for postpartum, and are designed to empower parents to make their own informed decisions around infant feeding.
Most of the parents who attend are first-time parents just learning about the benefits of breastfeeding for the dyad. My class may be the first time an educator has been candid with them about the realities of postpartum life and how to set themselves up for success. Because my primary goal is to support women in their transition to motherhood, I feel called to offer these classes regularly and with no barriers
Trusted organizations
External resources
La Leche League
Peer support and evidence-based breastfeeding information, available internationally and locally in most communities.
Visit llli.org →Find an IBCLC
If your situation needs clinical lactation support, the United States Lactation Consultant Association can help you find an IBCLC near you.
Visit uslca.org →WIC Breastfeeding Support
WIC provides free breastfeeding support, peer counselors, and breast pumps for eligible families in Washington State.
Washington WIC →National Breastfeeding Helpline
Free telephone support from trained breastfeeding counselors, available seven days a week.
1-800-994-9662 →Postpartum Support International
Support for postpartum depression, anxiety, and other perinatal mental health challenges. Helpline and local provider directory available.
postpartum.net →Product Recalls
Check current product recalls, including infant formula and feeding equipment. Register your products to receive automatic recall notifications.
recalls.gov →Need immediate support?
Helplines
National Breastfeeding Helpline
Free, confidential breastfeeding support 7 days a week.
Postpartum Support International
Postpartum depression, anxiety, and mental health support.
Crisis Line (Washington State)
Mental health crisis support — call or text 988 anytime.
Poison Control
For concerns about medication, formula, or substance ingestion.