CLC vs. IBCLC: Understanding the differences
Are you considering pursuing a certification in lactation? Maybe you’re just starting out in your career and you’re trying to decide between becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or a full-fledged International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Or maybe you’re already a CLC and you’re considering taking that extra step toward IBCLC certification. Whatever your experience, it’s helpful to understand the differences so you can make the choice that’s right for you and your career.
Women, mothers, and parents have been fighting for their right to make decisions over their bodies and care for centuries. Their allies, advocates, and clinicians (that’s you!) continue to matter more than ever — and the role they can play is paramount. This journey is about more than just a certification; it’s about amplifying your ability to support and empower families, creating a lasting impact in your field, and growing your own professional horizons. Embrace this opportunity to advance your career and make an even greater difference in the lives of those you help.
At The Lactation Network (TLN), we eat, sleep, and breathe all things lactation care. We see you — standing in the gap for families as a lactation consultant is precisely why many choose this field. But your impact looks different depending on your certification — and has broader implications for your career. Let’s talk about how.
What is a CLC?
A CLC is a healthcare professional who specializes in breastfeeding and lactation support. They’re trained to help new parents and families navigate the challenges of breastfeeding by offering guidance on proper techniques, addressing common concerns like latch issues or milk supply, and providing emotional support throughout the process.
CLCs play a crucial role in promoting healthy feeding practices, empowering parents with knowledge, and fostering positive breastfeeding experiences. They do meaningful work for families, working closely with them.
While CLCs play an important role in supporting breastfeeding families, there are some limits to their scope compared to IBCLCs. For example, CLCs often focus on basic breastfeeding support and may not be as involved in managing more complicated breastfeeding problems or offering specialized care for medical conditions affecting lactation. They also might not have the same level of recognition in certain healthcare settings, which can sometimes limit their ability to work alongside other health professionals.
What kind of training is needed to become a CLC?
Aspiring CLCs must complete a lactation counselor training program, which involves 45 hours of education and one online or in-person class, and pass a certification exam. CLCs also need to complete 18+ hours of continuing education every three years. While an IBCLC will need to complete college-level coursework, this is not a requirement for CLCs.
Who typically becomes a CLC?
Often nurses, doulas, pediatricians, and even speech pathologists and counselors train to become CLCs. Typically, these professionals already spend a lot of time training for other specialties, so it’s not unusual for them to take on lactation counselor training, too. It lets them provide an extra form of help to their patients.
What is an IBCLC?
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is an expert who is recognized globally as the gold standard in breastfeeding and lactation care for their advanced knowledge and clinical skills. IBCLCs build on everything CLCs do and then some. They handle all the essential support that CLCs offer — like helping new parents with breastfeeding basics and guiding them through those early days — but with extra skills and knowledge for tackling more complex challenges.
IBCLCs are not just there to provide everyday support; they’re your go-to for tricky issues, advanced education on infant nutrition, and everything in between. So, while all IBCLCs can do everything a CLC does, they also bring a higher level of knowledge and clinical experience to the table, making them a go-to resource for families needing extra support.
These professionals work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practice. They often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for both parent and baby. Pursuing an IBCLC certification requires a strong commitment to education and hands-on experience, but it offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on parental and child health. If you’re passionate about supporting families through their breastfeeding journey and desire an in-depth, specialized career, becoming an IBCLC could be the perfect path for you!
What kind of training and education is needed to become an IBCLC?
Becoming an IBCLC takes some serious dedication and effort, but trust us, it’s worth it. You’ll need to complete a lot of education — think of it as a deep dive into everything related to breastfeeding and lactation. This includes college-level health science courses and 90 hours of lactation-specific education. You’ll also need to complete 300-1,000 clinical hours where you’ll gain hands-on experience working directly with breastfeeding families. After all that hard work, you’ll take a comprehensive exam to prove your expertise.
It’s a big commitment, but it equips you with advanced skills and knowledge to make a real difference in people’s lives. So, while the journey to becoming an IBCLC is challenging, it’s incredibly rewarding and opens up exciting opportunities to help families thrive. And we have a feeling you’re more than capable of making it happen.
Who tends to get their IBCLC accreditation?
IBCLCs come from a variety of backgrounds. While those with specializations in midwifery or pediatric medical care often decide to become an IBCLC, many individuals are drawn to this field after they themselves breastfeed or have a close personal experience that leads them to change careers. Ultimately, people who pursue IBCLC certification have one thing in common regardless of their background: their passion for the field.
Thinking of becoming an IBCLC?
If you’re thinking of becoming an IBCLC, you know it’s hard work. But we think you probably know, the work is worth it. That extra training, hands-on clinical hours, exam, and regular recertification process will keep you learning, growing, and on the cutting edge of lactation care. It also means your patients are getting the best breastfeeding support!
CLC vs. IBCLC salary
Becoming an IBCLC can lead to a higher salary compared to a CLC, especially when working in clinical or hospital settings. And for those interested in building a private practice, the earning potential can be even more significant. In the US, the average hourly pay for CLCs is $29, compared to $42 an hour for IBCLCs.
As an IBCLC in private practice, you can set your own fees, attract a diverse clientele, and potentially offer specialized services that command higher rates. Building a reputation as an expert in the field can lead to additional income opportunities, such as workshops, speaking engagements, and consulting.
Additionally, CLCs typically can’t accept private insurance in the same way that an IBCLCs can. Reimbursement rates will vary for a CLC vs IBCLC because of the different scopes of practice, with IBCLCs receiving higher reimbursements. IBCLCs can also accept more types of insurance or partner with TLN to have more robust opportunities as a result of their advanced certification.
What type of insurance does an IBCLC need?
The insurance coverage needs for a CLC versus an IBCLC can differ due to the scope of practice and the level of responsibility associated with each role.
For a CLC, the primary concern is typically professional liability insurance (also known as malpractice insurance). Because CLCs generally have more straightforward insurance needs, their premiums are typically lower.
Since IBCLCs handle more complex cases and may work in clinical settings, they often require more comprehensive (thus, more expensive) insurance coverage. In addition to professional liability insurance, an IBCLC might also need general liability insurance, especially if running a private practice. For IBCLCs who work in a medical or hospital setting, the employer may provide coverage, but those in private practice will likely need to secure their own insurance. If you have any apprehensions when it comes to getting insurance, that’s normal and we’re here to help. TLN can offer advice and guidance on coverage as you’re getting started with your practice!
Thinking about becoming an IBCLC? It’s an exciting path that offers advanced skills and the chance to build a flexible, client-centered business. Here at TLN, our IBCLCs come from all kinds of backgrounds, but they have one thing in common: They all chose to become the highest-credentialed LC in the world. You can, too. With this certification, you’ll experience rewarding professional growth and build deep bonds with parents and families. Learn more about what it takes to get certified and how TLN can support you in creating a successful private practice.
We handle billing, end-to-end. We connect you with insurance-covered patients. We help you grow your practice, your way.
