International Doula Institute’s Breastfeeding Counselor Program
International Breastfeeding Institute is the lactation school of the International Doula Institute.
Our Core Course offers 40 CERPS and includes the new 5 Hour Communication Skills requirement for IBLCE.org and our Advanced Lactation Course offers 50 CERPS for the IBCLC candidate or already certified IBCLC wanting a more complex, deeper dive.
CBC Course Description:
The International Doula Institute is proud to offer the Certified Breastfeeding Counselor Course. Do you want to help lactating families through enlightening education and empowering support? Are you a doula? A nurse? Are you looking to provide Lactation Support? If you are passionate about moms and babies, this program is for you. With feeding being such a gigantic part of birth and postpartum support, getting your CBC will enable you to better support prenatal and postpartum families.
Certified Breastfeeding Counselors are trained individuals who deal with the normal process of lactation. Our Certified Breastfeeding Counselor course gives you a standalone credential (CBC) to support a breastfeeding family. Our course mission is to support a labor doula, a postpartum doula or dedicated individual who serves in any setting where lactating moms need help.
Once certified as a CBC through International Breastfeeding Institute, the lactation school of International Doula Institute, your CBC certification is valid for 3 years and is renewable every 3 years through our website.
For Nurses: Non-Nursing CE Activities Counting Toward RN Requirements
Most boards of nursing will allow nurses to complete CE courses designed for adjacent services. However, this is if you can provide a statement explaining how the course relates to nursing. You may need to provide a CERP certificate with our IBLCE approval number as IBLCE is a recognized credentialing entity. You can also check with your state board of nursing to confirm as well.
Dr. Natashia Conner an IBCLC – an Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultant instructs this course. This course will focus on completing all the Clinical Competencies required for a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor. Also, almost all the Clinical Competencies for becoming an IBCLC. Our coursework will include the basics of breastfeeding, communication and counseling skills. Also, the tools you will need in the areas of prenatal and postpartum support. There are multiple learning modules with required reading, assignments, exams, essays and role-plays. This course is standalone or can be used towards the coursework needed to go onward and become an IBCLC.
NEED 90 Hours of Lactation Coursework?
Our Core Course offers 40 L CERPS (Continuing Education Recognition Points) and we now offer Advanced Lactation 201 worth 50 CERPS. Comprehensive education in human lactation and breastfeeding is a vital part of preparing to become an IBCLC. IBCLC stands for International Board Certified Lactation Consultant which is the highest credential in lactation.
An IBCLC designation is received through health science and lactation-specific coursework, clinical hours plus an exam to become an IBCLC. Becoming a CBC, Certified Breastfeeding Counselor, through this coursework offers you the title of CBC. This is in addition to 40 CERPS, which will help on the road to becoming an IBCLC if you choose. This coursework applies to initial certification or re-certification.
We now offer a second course, Advanced Lactation 201 for 50 CERPS. This is a more complex, deeper dive into a Day in the Life of an IBCLC. More information about the pathways to becoming an IBCLC are found at www.iblce.org.
Dr. Natshia Conner, PhD
Director of Lactation Education
Dr. Natashia Conner is our esteemed Director of Lactation Education at the International Breastfeeding Institute. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of lactation education.
Holding a Ph.D. in Health Education and Promotion with a specialization in Behavioral Health from Walden University, Dr. Conner’s educational background is impressive and wide-ranging. She also earned a Master of Science in Health Education and Promotion, with a focus on Public Health, from the University of Cincinnati College of Education, Criminal Justice, and Human Services. Her foundational education in maternal and child health was established with a Bachelor of Science from Union Institute and University, complemented by an Associate of Applied Business in Medical Administrative Technologies from Cincinnati State Technical & Community College.
When asked what Dr. Conner loves about her work at IDI, she tells us:
“I love being a part of the change in our communities by diversifying the field of human lactation thereby increasing the representation of BIPOC individuals who provide care and support for lactating families across the world. ”
With over a decade of experience in the field, Dr. Conner has developed a broad expertise that spans local and state government, community-based organizations, local boards of health, faith-based organizations, and both public and private health agencies. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), she has become a recognized authority in health program planning, health equity, and community health initiatives, with a particular focus on addressing health disparities within diverse populations.
A dedicated advocate for racial and health equity, Dr. Conner has devoted much of her career to promoting these values. She does this through education and policy advocacy across the United States. Her personal life mirrors her professional dedication. A bustling household of five children and three pets, and her background as a US Navy Veteran infuses her leadership style with discipline and a profound sense of duty. Dr. Conner’s multifaceted career is a testament to her commitment to improving maternal and child health through education, advocacy, and leadership.