I’m so glad you’re here.
Welcoming a baby brings a whirlwind of emotions and new experiences. It’s a time of learning to understand your baby’s needs while also caring for yourself as you heal and adjust.
When challenges with breastfeeding arise, things can feel even more overwhelming — and that’s where I come in.
Although breastfeeding is natural, it does not come easily to many mothers (I was one of the many out there struggling) and lactation support can play a HUGE role in helping a mother who wants to breastfeed.
With over 19 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) with experience working in both inpatient and outpatient hospital settings, I bring a unique perspective when providing comprehensive care for both mother and baby. I specialize in assessing infant oral function and how it relates to effective feeding.
I am equipped to address a wide range of feeding challenges with warmth and gentle guidance. When there are concerns beyond my scope of practice I will refer you to trusted providers . I believe that collaboration with parents and providers is essential to helping families feel educated and supported, empowering them to make decisions about how to feed their baby—without judgment.
How can I help?
Every family’s feeding journey is unique. My role is to listen with care, identify challenges, and create a personalized plan that builds confidence and supports your goals.
I can help with the following:
Positioning and latch
Painful or damaged nipples
Engorgement, plugged ducts, mastitis
Low milk supply
Tongue restriction/tongue tie
Pumping and flange fitting
Paced bottle feeding, supplementation, formula feeding
Inverted, flat or large nipples
Oversupply and/or overactive let down
Infant weight gain or slow gain
Sleepy, fussy, or gassy babies
Breastfeeding multiples
Re-lactation, induced lactation prior to adoption
Returning to work, weaning support
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does a lactation consultant do?
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) provides individualized support for families navigating challenges around infant feeding. This includes help with latch and positioning, milk supply, nipple or breast pain, engorgement, pumping and flange sizing, and more. Each consultation is tailored to supporting your unique feeding goals—whether that’s exclusive breastfeeding, combination feeding, or bottle feeding.
2. When should I reach out for lactation support?
Some families schedule a prenatal visit to enhance their education and confidence before baby arrives. Many families reach out after birth when facing concerns and discomfort around lactation. Early lactation support can make a big difference and increase breastfeeding rates.
3. What happens during a consultation?
During a lactation consultation, we’ll talk about your feeding goals and any challenges you’re facing. I’ll likely observe a feeding, check latch and positioning, and assess both you and your baby for any factors that might be affecting feeding. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you feel confident moving forward. Each visit includes a written care plan and 1 week of brief follow-up communication for continued guidance.
4. Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No referral is needed. You can contact me directly to schedule an appointment. I may communicate with your healthcare team as needed/requested to ensure holistic care.
5. Will insurance cover lactation consultations?
I accept Cigna, Aetna and United Healthcare as I contract with Wildflower Health and The Lactation Network. With other health care plans, I can provide a superbill (an itemized receipt) for you to submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. With all consultations, payment is due at the time of service. Additionally, a sliding scale may be available to help make care financially accessible.
6. Can I get help if I’m exclusively pumping or using formula?
Yes. Support is for every mother and family, no matter how you feed your baby. We can discuss pumping strategies, flange fit, paced-bottle feeding, or find a combination approach that supports your goals and well-being.
7. How soon after birth should I schedule an appointment?
Ideally within the first couple of weeks if you’re experiencing nipple pain, poor latch, low milk supply or concerns about baby’s weight gain. But it’s never too late to contact me—lactation support is helpful at any stage of your feeding journey.
8. What’s the difference between an IBCLC and other lactation professionals?
An IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) has completed advanced clinical training and board certification to address both simple and complex feeding issues. Other professionals may offer education and encouragement, but an IBCLC brings a deeper level of assessment and clinical care.
9. Do you offer in-home and virtual visits?
Yes. I offer in-home visits throughout the East Bay and virtual consultations for families who prefer or need remote care. Both include comprehensive assessment, education, and a personalized plan tailored to your family’s needs. However, virtual visits may pose limitations around physical and anatomical assessment.