Breastfeeding Counselor - Course Duration

Flexibility PLUS!

Choosing a Childbirth International course means you can train as a Breastfeeding Counselor with complete flexibility. You can complete the course in as little as 6 months, or take as long as 3 years. If your family commitments change, you can take a break from studying for a while. If you have holidays coming up and some extra free time, you can pick up a faster pace.

As an estimate, if you study for 10 hours each week, the course will take you 10-14 months to complete. This would include the time it takes for you to complete the study workbooks, and assumes that you support two breastfeeding women for at least 30 hours and complete your assignments in that time. This is similar to other programs once you take into account attending their workshops, supporting breastfeeding mothers and completing their other certification requirements. However, as a Childbirth International certified Breastfeeding Counselor you will have completed comprehensive training that fits in with your lifestyle! Flexibility Plus!

"There were so many positive things about my training that it's difficult to choose one thing! I really liked that it was self-paced because, with young children, it was nice to be able to work in spurts when life allowed. I also enjoyed the balance between the scientific, physiological aspects of my training and the more personal, communication aspects. I feel that this will allow for me to be more well-rounded as I begin my career. Thanks to everyone for helping make this such a fun and educational experience." - Katie, Oregon

How do programs compare?

Childbirth International
10-14 months including all learning, finding clients, assignments and observing a course

It is our belief that the skills needed to support breastfeeding women, including counseling skills, a thorough understanding of the physiology of lactation and the ethics related to lactation practice, require a comprehensive amount of learning.

Workshop based programs
On average 4-6 months including: 2-3 day workshop, home study work required (usually some reading, essays and an exam), finding and working with clients, supporting breastfeeding mothers
 

Certified Lactation Consultant
On average 2-4 years including: home study learning,  extensive breastfeeding support and the final ICBLE exam. The CBI breastfeeding counselor course will provide you with a solid preparation if you choose to go on and study for the ICBLE exam.