How to Start Your Own Lactation Consultant Business
Starting my own private practice as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) was one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made—but I’ll be honest, it was a little overwhelming at first. The idea of being able to directly impact families, create my own schedule, and build a business I was passionate about was so exciting, but I didn’t know exactly where to start.
If you’re feeling the same way, don’t worry—you’re in the right place! Starting your own lactation consultant business isn’t just about having the right certifications. It’s about taking that first leap, planning carefully, and giving yourself permission to grow as you go.
To help you hit the ground running, Bri and I have created a free eBook called IBCLC Biz Made Easy. It’s packed with everything you need to know about setting up your lactation business, from the basics of registration to the tools that will make your work-life smoother. If you’re serious about starting your own private practice, I’d highly recommend grabbing your copy—it’s a game-changer!
Now, let’s dive into the steps that helped me build my business from scratch.
Step 1: Define Your Vision
One of the things I love most about private practice is the freedom to shape it around my passions and strengths. The first step is figuring out what you want your business to look like. Here are some questions to help:
- Who do you want to help? Are you drawn to supporting new moms, NICU families, working moms, or a mix of clients?
- What are you most passionate about? Maybe it’s milk supply issues, oral restrictions, pumping support, or something else entirely.
- Where will you work? Will you offer virtual consultations, in-person visits, or a combination? Will you do home visits, rent office space, or work from your home?
For me, clarity came from thinking about what I wanted to be known for. I realized I didn’t need to be an expert in every area—I just needed to focus on the things I loved and was good at. Once you know your vision, everything else becomes so much easier to plan.
Step 2: Gather the Essentials
Starting your own business takes more than just clinical expertise—you’ll need to balance it with business know-how. Here’s what helped me get started:
- Business Registration: Choose a name you love and register it with your state.
- Professional Liability Insurance: This is an absolute must for protecting yourself and your practice.
- HIPAA-Compliant Tools: You’ll need secure platforms for scheduling, charting, and virtual consultations.
- Marketing Materials: A professional website, social media profiles, and even simple business cards can help you connect with clients.
- A Functional Workspace: Whether you’re meeting clients online, in their homes, or in an office, create a comfortable and inviting environment.
If you’re not sure where to start, the checklist in IBCLC Biz Made Easy can walk you through everything step by step. Seriously, don’t skip it—it’s like having a mentor guide you through the setup process!
Step 3: Invest in Your Growth
Running a private practice is about more than helping families—it’s about growing your business. Some of the things that made the biggest difference for me were:
- Continuing Education: Staying up-to-date with the latest lactation research helped me feel more confident and capable.
- Business Skills: Learning about marketing, client management, and accounting made running my practice so much smoother.
- Networking: Connecting with other IBCLCs and healthcare providers opened up opportunities I never expected.
Step 4: Focus on Client Experience
Your clients will be the heart of your business, so creating an amazing experience for them is essential. Here are a few tips that worked for me:
- Clear Communication: Respond quickly to inquiries and be transparent about what you offer.
- Personalized Care: Every family is unique—take the time to tailor your approach to their needs.
- Follow-Up Support: Little things, like checking in after a consultation, can make a huge difference.
Happy clients not only come back—they recommend you to others. A great client experience is the best marketing you can have!
Step 5: Embrace the Journey
Starting your own lactation consultant business isn’t always easy, but it’s so worth it. There were moments when I doubted myself, but every family I helped reminded me why I started. Give yourself grace as you navigate the ups and downs—it’s okay to make mistakes. Every step forward is a win, no matter how small.
If you’re ready to get started, don’t forget to grab your free copy of IBCLC Biz Made Easy. It’s packed with practical advice to help you turn your dream of private practice into reality. You’ve got this! to Take the Leap
We know there’s a lot to juggle when launching your practice—that’s why we created a free eBook to guide you through the essentials. Download IBCLC Biz Made Easy today and start building a business you love!
You’ve got this—and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. Let’s get started! 💕
