How much does it cost to become a certified lactation counselor?

Understanding the Costs of Becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor
Becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) is a rewarding path for those passionate about supporting breastfeeding mothers and infants. However, prospective counselors should be prepared for various costs associated with training and certification.
Training Costs
The primary expense in becoming a CLC is the training course itself. Many programs offer comprehensive lactation counselor training that meets the requirements set by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). For instance, a typical lactation counselor training course can range from $1,430 to $1,580 depending on the institution and whether you take additional courses together for a discount.
These courses usually consist of around 90 hours of lactation education, which includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective counseling.
Certification Fees
After completing the training, candidates must pass a certification exam to officially become a CLC. The exam fee can vary, but it typically adds another $300 to $500 to the overall cost of certification.
Additional Expenses
Beyond tuition and exam fees, there are other potential costs to consider:
– Study Materials: Textbooks and other resources can cost anywhere from $100 to $300.
– Continuing Education: To maintain certification, CLCs are required to complete continuing education credits, which can incur additional costs over time.
– Membership Fees: Joining professional organizations, such as the Lactation Education Accreditation and Approval Review Committee (LEAARC) or the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA), may also require annual fees.
Financial Aid and Discounts
Many training programs offer financial aid options or payment plans to help ease the burden of upfront costs. Additionally, some institutions provide discounts for registering for multiple courses at once, which can significantly reduce the overall expense.
Conclusion
In summary, the total cost to become a Certified Lactation Counselor can range from approximately $1,800 to $2,500 when factoring in training, certification, study materials, and potential membership fees. While the investment is substantial, the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of mothers and infants can be incredibly fulfilling.

How much does a CLC get paid?

What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Certified Lactation Counselor Clc Jobs

City	Annual Salary	Hourly Wage
San Francisco, CA	$70,303	$33.80
Santa Clara, CA	$70,081	$33.69
Sunnyvale, CA	$70,034	$33.67
Livermore, CA	$69,994	$33.65

How difficult is the CLC exam?

The CLC examination is a challenging certification test. Many people retake one or both portions of the exam for a variety of reasons, including if they are making up time from a previous exam location.

How hard is the lactation consultant exam?

Four hours are allowed to complete the exam. A portion of the questions (currently about 50%) are image-based. This means you will be shown a photograph, drawing, or chart and will be asked a question about that image. This part of the exam is tricky and tends to be the most difficult for people.

Can you be a lactation consultant without a degree?

While anyone, regardless of education and training, may use the “lactation consultant” title, the standard in the field is for lactation consultants to become certified and registered as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

How much does a CLC make?

What are Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Certified Lactation Counselor Clc Jobs

City	Annual Salary	Hourly Wage
San Francisco, CA	$70,303	$33.80
Santa Clara, CA	$70,081	$33.69
Sunnyvale, CA	$70,034	$33.67
Livermore, CA	$69,994	$33.65

How long does it take to become a lactation counselor?

The number of supervised clinical hours ranges from 300 to 1,000, depending on an applicant’s educational and professional qualifications. For example, applicants with a high school diploma and no previous educational training must take 90 lactation courses and complete 1,000 practicum hours.

Can anyone become a CLC?

Eligibility: Open to all individuals interested in lactation counseling, with no specific prerequisites in terms of healthcare background. Registration: Enroll in a CLC training course through an authorized provider. Course Participation: Attend the full course, participating in both theoretical and practical sessions.

How much does the CLC exam cost?

The current application fee is $20. The current examination fee is $100. Remotely proctored CLC examinations are offered 24/7.

Can I be a lactation consultant without being an RN?

People who pursue careers in lactation consulting often come from other roles in health care and child birthing, such as being a registered nurse or midwife. Yet, those without a medical background should not be discouraged from pursuing a career as a lactation specialist.

How much does it cost to become a certified lactation consultant?

Price: FREE For California Residents through Santiago Canyon College.