Find Your Perfect IBCLC Mentor: Tips and Tricks

Are you pursuing a career as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)?

A mentor can provide invaluable guidance, support, and hands-on experience as you work towards completing the required clinical hours and passing the certification exam.

If you choose to do Pathway 3, you will need to find a mentor. While it seems like finding one shouldn’t be difficult, most people who start on this pathway struggle to find an IBCLC to be their mentor.

I completed my training to become an IBCLC through Pathway 3, and it wasn’t easy to find a mentor at first. Thankfully, I eventually found a wonderful couple, but it did take a lot of work. This is a big reason why I’m so passionate about being mentors for other aspiring IBCLCs.

In this article, I’ll share a few tips on finding a mentor and what to expect.

Where to Find an IBCLC Mentor

Finding an IBCLC mentor is an essential part of the journey to becoming an IBCLC. A mentor can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into the lactation profession. Here are some places to look for an IBCLC mentor:

Lactation Directories

Fortunately, several resources are available to help you find an IBCLC mentor. One option is to search for a mentor through professional organizations such as the United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA) or the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA). These organizations maintain directories of IBCLCs who offer mentorship services, making it easier for you to find a mentor in your area. Additionally, many local breastfeeding coalitions or support groups may be able to connect you with an experienced IBCLC who can serve as your mentor.

Online Resources

The internet provides a wealth of resources for finding an IBCLC mentor. The USLCA website has a mentorship directory that can help you find a mentor. Virtual mentorship is also available through online platforms like Lactation Education Resources and Breastfeeding Outlook. Additionally, free webinars and online forums can provide opportunities for networking and conversation with other lactation professionals.

Local Communities

Local communities can be a great resource for finding an IBCLC mentor. Look for breastfeeding coalition meetings or World Breastfeeding Week events in your area. Pediatricians’ offices and state breastfeeding coalitions may also have directories of lactation professionals that can help you find a mentor.

Networking and Conversation

Networking with other lactation professionals can be valuable for finding an IBCLC mentor. Attend conferences and events to meet other professionals in the field, or join online groups or forums to connect with others. When reaching out to potential mentors, be sure to express your passion for the field and your desire to learn.

Search Engines

Simply get on your favorite search engine and search “IBCLC near me” or “IBCLC mentor opportunities”. You can find IBCLCs in your area to reach out to – though be aware that many are not open to having mentees.

Social Media

Try and connect with lactation consultants through social media channels. There are many that have social media followings and might just be the perfect mentee for you. As of right now, virtual mentorships are still eligible through IBLCE.

How to Approach an IBCLC to be a Mentor

When reaching out to someone to be your mentor, you can either call, email, or even start a conversation on social media. It’s important to be respectful of their time and expertise and never go into it assuming that they have to say yes. Many IBCLCs are unable to take mentees for a variety of reasons, so being aware of that is important.

I find that email is the best way to reach out. You should start by introducing yourself, your background and your goals. Talk about which pathway you are doing and how many hours you need. Kindly ask if they would be open to having you as a mentee. You can share some of the tasks you can help with as a mentee for their practice – focusing on the benefits of having a mentee (there are plenty!) You can share any personal details that might be helpful – close by thanking them for their time.

Who can be an IBCLC mentor?

IBCLC mentors must meet specific criteria set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). They must be currently certified as an IBCLC and be in good standing. They must also complete a mentor training program and adhere to the IBLCE’s Code of Professional Conduct for IBCLCs.

Why Find an IBCLC Mentor?

Finding an IBCLC mentor is an essential step towards becoming a certified lactation consultant for Pathway 3 – though I think everyone should do a mentorship program regardless of the pathway they are doing. A mentor can help guide aspiring lactation consultants through the certification process and provide valuable insights into the field. Here are some reasons why finding an IBCLC mentor is important:

Gain Clinical Experience

To become an IBCLC, there are various pathways which include differing amounts of hours and supervision. While some of the pathways are more structured in how this has to look, as I previously mentioned, I believe that all aspiring IBCLCs should seek out mentorship opportunities in a variety of settings. This will ensure you have a great skill set with a variety of breastfeeding dyads as you start your own journey so you can be the best lactation consultant you can be from the start.

Navigate Pathway 3

For candidates pursuing Pathway 3 to become an IBCLC, finding a mentor is particularly important. In Pathway 3, clinical experience is obtained through mentorship with a practicing IBCLC and you must obtain 500 hours. A mentor can help candidates navigate the Pathway 3 process, including identifying potential mentors, developing a mentorship plan, and documenting clinical hours.

Learn from Experienced Professionals

A mentor is typically an experienced lactation consultant who has been working in the field for several years. Mentors can offer valuable insights into the profession, including best practices, tips for working with families, and strategies for building a successful lactation consulting business.

Get Support and Encouragement

Becoming a lactation consultant can be a challenging and rewarding journey. A mentor can provide much-needed support and encouragement along the way. Mentors can offer guidance, answer questions, and provide emotional support to help candidates stay motivated and on track.

In summary, finding an IBCLC mentor is an essential step towards becoming a certified lactation consultant. A mentor can provide opportunities for gaining clinical experience, navigate the Pathway 3 process, offer valuable insights into the profession, and provide support and encouragement along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I find an IBCLC mentor?

Finding an IBCLC mentor can be challenging, but there are several ways to locate one. One approach is to reach out to local hospitals, clinics, or private practices that offer lactation services. Another option is to search online for IBCLC mentorship programs or directories. Professional organizations such as the United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA) and Lactation Education Resources (LER) offer mentorship programs and resources to help you find a mentor.

Where can I find virtual IBCLC mentorship?

Virtual IBCLC mentorship is becoming increasingly common, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many IBCLCs offer virtual mentorship services, which can be accessed from anywhere in the world. You can find virtual mentorship opportunities through online directories, professional organizations, or by searching for IBCLCs who offer virtual services.

Will I have to pay for my mentorship?

This depends on the mentor and the program. Many mentors do charge their mentees to do their hours, however, some do not. Both Bri and I choose not to charge our mentees that we work with, nor do we pay them.

What are the pathways to becoming an IBCLC?

There are three pathways to becoming an IBCLC: Pathway 1, Pathway 2, and Pathway 3. Pathway 1 requires completion of a lactation consultant training program, while Pathway 2 requires completion of specific health care professions. Pathway 3 requires mentorship with an IBCLC and completion of specific coursework and clinical hours. Each pathway has its own requirements and eligibility criteria.

Is IBCLC certification difficult to obtain?

IBCLC certification can be challenging to obtain due to the rigorous requirements and high standards set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). However, with dedication, hard work, and a supportive mentor, it is possible to achieve certification. It is important to note that certification is not a guarantee of success, but rather a reflection of a high level of knowledge and expertise in lactation consulting.

What is the difference between CLC and IBCLC?

A Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) is a professional who has completed a training program in lactation counseling and has passed an exam – the education amounts to about 50 hours. An IBCLC, on the other hand, is a health care professional who has completed extensive training and clinical experience in lactation consulting and has passed a rigorous exam. IBCLCs have a broader scope of practice and can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and public health programs.

What kind of support can I expect from an IBCLC mentor?

An IBCLC mentor can provide a wealth of knowledge, guidance, and support throughout your journey to becoming an IBCLC. They can offer clinical experience, help you develop your skills, and provide feedback on your progress. They can also offer emotional support and encouragement, answer questions, and provide resources and referrals as needed. It is important to establish clear expectations and communication with your mentor to ensure a positive and productive mentoring relationship.