Certified Lactation Practitioner (CLP) Certification Program
Comprehensive Lactation Support Training for Birth & Postpartum Professionals
Offered Exclusively by Modern Parenthood Institute
Our Renowned In-Person Training Now Becoming Available Online!
Exciting Announcement!
After years of successful in-person trainings and countless requests, we're bringing our highly acclaimed Certified Lactation Practitioner program to an interactive online format. We're carefully crafting each element of this transformation to ensure the virtual experience delivers the same comprehensive education, practical skills development, and supportive community that our in-person graduates have benefited from.
The online CLP program is currently in development and will launch in 2026.
Imagine the satisfaction of helping a family overcome common breastfeeding challenges through your informed guidance. Envision yourself as the professional who offers not just encouragement, but practical, effective strategies that make a meaningful difference. That's the impact a Certified Lactation Practitioner makes—providing that essential bridge of support that helps families navigate their breastfeeding experience with greater ease and confidence.
Join the ranks of skilled lactation professionals supporting families through their breastfeeding journey
Picture this: A new mother and her newborn, surrounded by well-meaning advice yet still navigating uncertainties about positioning, latch, and normal feeding patterns. Her partner wants to help but feels equally unsure. Both are overwhelmed with information yet lacking the practical guidance that would make breastfeeding a more comfortable, confident experience.
In those first precious weeks of life, a family's breastfeeding journey profoundly shapes their early parenting experience. Many parents have breastfeeding goals they deeply value, yet studies show that with proper support, many more families could achieve these aspirations. As a birth or postpartum professional, you're already perfectly positioned to provide that crucial layer of knowledgeable guidance and practical support.
This is exactly why we created the Certified Lactation Practitioner program—to empower dedicated professionals like you with evidence-based knowledge and supportive skills. We've developed a comprehensive certification that enriches your existing practice with specialized lactation education, giving you the confidence to provide informed guidance, practical strategies, and compassionate support throughout a family's feeding journey.
A Holistic Approach for Modern Practitioners
What Is a Certified Lactation Practitioner?
The Perfect Balance of Knowledge and Practical Support
A Certified Lactation Practitioner (CLP) is a trained professional who provides evidence-based education, compassionate guidance, and practical support to breastfeeding families. CLPs occupy a unique and valuable position in the spectrum of lactation support:
More comprehensive than basic breastfeeding educators, with deeper knowledge of lactation physiology, milk production dynamics, and infant feeding development
Focused on practical, hands-on support that helps families navigate common breastfeeding challenges and questions
Skilled in assessing basic latch, positioning, and milk transfer while recognizing when to refer to clinical specialists (IBCLCs) for complex issues
Prepared to support families throughout their entire breastfeeding journey, from prenatal preparation through weaning
Why "Practitioner"?
We specifically chose the title "Certified Lactation Practitioner" to reflect the hands-on, practical nature of this role:
Practice-Oriented: The term "practitioner" emphasizes the application of knowledge through practical skills and supportive techniques that make a tangible difference for families.
Distinctive Professional Identity: The CLP designation creates a clear professional identity that distinguishes our graduates in the marketplace of lactation support.
Scope-Appropriate: Unlike clinical titles, "practitioner" accurately reflects the supportive, educational role our graduates fulfill while respecting professional boundaries.
Client-Centered: The practitioner approach focuses on empowering families with knowledge and skills rather than creating dependency on professional services.
Integration with Other Roles: The practitioner model complements other perinatal support roles, allowing for seamless integration of lactation support into doula work, newborn care, sleep consulting, and other family support services.
CLPs become the go-to resource for families needing skilled breastfeeding guidance—bridging the gap between basic information and specialized clinical care. As a CLP, you'll be prepared to confidently support the majority of breastfeeding situations while knowing exactly when more specialized help might be needed.
Bridging Knowledge, Hands-On Support, and Compassionate Care for Breastfeeding Success
The Problem We're Solving Together
In today's fast-paced world, families face unprecedented challenges with breastfeeding, backed by alarming statistics:
Support gap: 60% of mothers stop breastfeeding earlier than they intended, with insufficient support cited as the primary reason
Critical window missed: The first two weeks are crucial for establishing breastfeeding, yet 40% of families don't receive any professional lactation support during this period
Healthcare limitations: The average pediatric visit lasts just 13-16 minutes, with less than 3 minutes typically devoted to feeding concerns
Provider knowledge gap: Studies show only 57% of pediatric providers feel confident addressing breastfeeding challenges beyond basic issues
Accessibility barriers: There is just 1 IBCLC for every 3,500 births in the US, with rural areas having even less access to clinical lactation care
Economic impact: Families who stop breastfeeding due to solvable challenges spend an average of $1,200-1,800 annually on formula
Misinformation overload: New parents receive conflicting advice from an average of 8 different sources in the first month postpartum
Yet most existing lactation training either provides only basic education or focuses on clinical pathology. Research shows that practical, supportive guidance from knowledgeable professionals can increase breastfeeding duration by 2.5 months and exclusive breastfeeding rates by 30%.
Who This Program Is Perfect For
Ideal for Perinatal Professionals Ready to Expand Their Support Skills
The Certified Lactation Practitioner program is specifically designed for:
Birth & Postpartum Doulas
Enhance your prenatal education and postpartum support with specialized lactation knowledge. Address the #1 concern of most new families with confidence, offering practical solutions for common breastfeeding challenges during those critical first days, weeks, and months.
Newborn Care Specialists & Night Nannies
Elevate your overnight and daytime newborn care by understanding the intricacies of breastfeeding. Help establish healthy feeding patterns that support both baby's development and parental rest, becoming an even more valuable resource to your clients.
Sleep Consultants
Develop a deeper understanding of how feeding and sleep are interconnected. Create more effective sleep plans that honor and support the breastfeeding relationship, expanding your expertise and attracting more breastfeeding-focused families.
Childbirth Educators & Prenatal Coaches
Provide more comprehensive prenatal breastfeeding education that goes beyond the basics, preparing expectant families with practical knowledge for real-world success and distinguishing your classes from standard offerings.
Healthcare Support Professionals
Midwifery assistants, medical assistants, nurses, and other allied health professionals can gain specialized knowledge to better support breastfeeding families within their practice settings, enhancing the continuity of care they provide.
Aspiring Lactation Professionals & Career Changers
If you're considering a career in lactation support or transitioning to the perinatal field, the CLP program provides an excellent foundation without requiring prior experience—just a passion for supporting families and a commitment to learning!
A Unique Solution: The Certified Lactation Practitioner Approach
The Certified Lactation Practitioner program equips you with a complete system to provide effective breastfeeding support - helping families overcome common challenges while nurturing confident feeding relationships.
Our comprehensive approach integrates:
1
Evidence-based lactation science with practical, hands-on support techniques
2
Body-aware positioning principles that optimize comfort and milk transfer
3
Family-centered practices honoring diverse goals and circumstances
4
Responsive feeding support that builds maternal confidence and infant trust
5
Practical assessment tools you can implement immediately with families in the critical first days through weaning
6
Collaborative care frameworks that complement healthcare while maintaining appropriate boundaries
Important Note About This Certification
The Certified Lactation Practitioner (CLP) program is a professional certification focused on supportive and educational aspects of lactation care. This program:
Is NOT a clinical credential and does not qualify you to diagnose conditions, prescribe treatments, or perform medical procedures
Does NOT prepare you for the IBCLC exam or replace the clinical hours and specialized education required for that clinical credential
Is NOT intended for those seeking to provide primary clinical lactation care
This professional certification program is best suited for those already working with families in a supportive capacity who wish to enhance their knowledge and skills within their existing scope of practice.
If you are seeking to become a clinical lactation care provider, we recommend exploring IBCLC pathway programs designed specifically for clinical practice preparation.
What You Get When You Enroll
A step-by-step curriculum designed for real-world success
Downloadable resources & workbooks to support your learning
A supportive community of like-minded professionals
Engaging lessons from industry experts
Guidance on adding to your business so you can hit the ground running
Official certification as a Lactation Practitioner
National Directory Listing
But that’s not all. We’re committed to setting you up for long-term success!
Complete Online Learning Experience
Our comprehensive self-paced digital program provides everything you need to master the Certified Lactation Practitioner approach from anywhere in the world, on your own schedule:
The Online Certification Includes:
Video Lectures/Demonstrations of techniques & theory
Downloadable Learning Materials for reference during and after training
Interactive Assessments to ensure comprehension and proficiency
Done-For-You Templates - Assessment tools, session plans, and parent handouts
Lifetime Access to all course materials and future updates
Professional Certificate upon successful completion
Business Building Materials - Marketing materials to attract clients
Same Credential as our in-person training graduates
Digital Badge - For your website and marketing materials
Comprehensive Online Curriculum
(75+ Hours of Training)
Our self-paced program teaches you the complete Certified Lactation Practitioner approach, organized into clear, comprehensive modules. Each lesson builds upon the previous one, creating a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that you can immediately apply in your work with families.
Comprehensive Curriculum (75+ Hours of Training)
Module 1: The History of Infant Feeding
Lesson 1: Historical Feeding Practices Across Cultures
Lesson 2: The Commercialization of Infant Feeding
Lesson 3: Breastfeeding Resurgence and Advocacy Movements
Lesson 4: Cultural Variations in Contemporary Breastfeeding
Lesson 5: The Global Impact of Feeding Choices
Module 2: Anatomy and Physiology of Lactation
Lesson 1: Breast Development Through the Lifespan
Lesson 2: Internal and External Breast Structures
Lesson 3: Hormonal Regulation of Milk Production
Lesson 4: The Lactation Cycle: From Pregnancy to Weaning
Lesson 5: Factors Affecting Milk Production and Removal
Module 3: Infant Oral Anatomy and Function
Lesson 1: Normal Infant Oral Development
Lesson 2: Feeding Reflexes and Their Integration
Lesson 3: Suckling Mechanics and Effective Transfer
Lesson 4: Common Oral Variations and Impact on Feeding
Lesson 5: Developmental Progression of Feeding Skills
Module 4: Human Milk Composition
Lesson 1: Nutritional Components of Human Milk
Lesson 2: Immunological Properties and Protection
Lesson 3: Bioactive Factors and Their Functions
Lesson 4: Changes in Milk Composition Over Time
Lesson 5: Comparison with Other Milks and Formula
Module 5: Benefits of Breastfeeding
Lesson 1: Evidence-Based Infant Health Outcomes
Lesson 2: Maternal Physical and Emotional Benefits
Lesson 3: Family and Societal Advantages
Lesson 4: Economic and Environmental Impacts
Lesson 5: Communicating Benefits Without Pressure
Module 6: Positioning and Latch
Lesson 1: Principles of Effective Positioning
Lesson 2: Traditional and Biological Nursing Positions
Lesson 3: Achieving and Assessing an Effective Latch
Lesson 4: Hands-On Helping Techniques
Lesson 5: Common Positioning Challenges and Solutions
Module 7: Milk Transfer Assessment
Lesson 1: Signs of Effective Feeding
Lesson 2: Understanding Infant Feeding Patterns
Lesson 3: Weight Gain and Diaper Output Assessment
Lesson 4: Using Tools to Evaluate Transfer (Scales, etc.)
Lesson 5: Documentation and Communication with Providers
Module 8: Common Breastfeeding Challenges
Lesson 1: Nipple Pain: Causes and Solutions
Lesson 2: Engorgement, Plugged Ducts, and Mastitis
Lesson 3: Perceived and Actual Low Milk Supply
Lesson 4: Oversupply Management
Lesson 5: The Sleepy, Fussy, or Distracted Baby
Module 9: Expression and Storage of Human Milk
Lesson 1: Hand Expression Techniques
Lesson 2: Pump Types and Selection
Lesson 3: Effective Pumping Strategies
Lesson 4: Safe Milk Storage and Handling
Lesson 5: Bottle Feeding the Breastfed Baby
Module 10: Supporting the Breastfeeding Dyad
Lesson 1: Psychological Aspects of Breastfeeding
Lesson 2: Cultural Competence in Lactation Support
Lesson 3: Supporting Various Family Structures
Lesson 4: Trauma-Informed Lactation Care
Lesson 5: Building Maternal Confidence and Self-Efficacy
Module 11: Special Circumstances
Lesson 1: Supporting the Late Preterm Infant
Lesson 2: Breastfeeding Multiples
Lesson 3: Relactation and Induced Lactation
Lesson 4: Breastfeeding After Breast Surgery
Lesson 5: Tongue-Tie Assessment and Referral
Module 12: Return to Work and Beyond
Lesson 1: Preparing for Return to Work
Lesson 2: Creating a Sustainable Pumping Plan
Lesson 3: Caregiver Education for the Breastfed Baby
Lesson 4: Maintaining Supply While Separated
Lesson 5: Combining Work and Breastfeeding Long-Term
Module 13: Introduction to Complementary Feeding
Lesson 1: Readiness Signs and Developmental Considerations
Lesson 2: Approaches to Complementary Feeding
Lesson 3: Continuing Breastfeeding During Food Introduction
Lesson 4: Nutritional Considerations for the Older Nursling
Lesson 5: Cultural Variations in Complementary Feeding
Module 14: Scope of Practice and Ethics
Lesson 1: Defining the CLP Scope of Practice
Lesson 2: Ethical Considerations in Lactation Support
Lesson 3: When and How to Make Appropriate Referrals
Lesson 4: Collaborative Care with Healthcare Providers
Lesson 5: Legal Considerations for Lactation Practitioners
Module 15: Building Your Lactation Practice
Lesson 1: Service Models and Business Structures
Lesson 2: Marketing Your Lactation Services
Lesson 3: Setting Rates and Packages
Lesson 4: Documentation and Record Keeping
Lesson 5: Self-Care and Preventing Burnout
Program Details
Certification Requirements
Complete all 75 hours of course content
Pass module quizzes with 80% or higher
Submit 10 documented breastfeeding observations
Complete 5 case studies
Pass comprehensive final examination
Scope of Practice: Understanding Your Role as a CLP
What Certified Lactation Practitioners CAN Do
As a Certified Lactation Practitioner, you are qualified to:
✓ Provide evidence-based education about normal lactation, milk production, and infant feeding patterns
✓ Offer hands-on guidance for positioning, latch, and basic breastfeeding management
✓ Observe and assess basic latch, positioning, and milk transfer effectiveness
✓ Teach practical skills including hand expression, pumping techniques, and milk storage
✓ Support families through common breastfeeding challenges like engorgement, nipple soreness, or perceived low supply
✓ Help develop strategies for returning to work, night feedings, and integrating breastfeeding into family life
✓ Provide anticipatory guidance about developmental stages and their impact on breastfeeding
✓ Create individualized feeding plans that respect family goals and circumstances
✓ Recognize red flags that require referral to healthcare providers or IBCLCs
✓ Collaborate effectively with other healthcare and perinatal support professionals
What Certified Lactation Practitioners DO NOT Do
To maintain appropriate professional boundaries, CLPs do not:
✗ Diagnose medical conditions in mother or baby (including tongue tie)
✗ Prescribe medications or treatments for breastfeeding difficulties
✗ Perform oral examinations or other clinical assessments requiring medical training
✗ Contradict medical advice given by healthcare providers
✗ Provide therapy for psychological conditions related to breastfeeding
✗ Make definitive statements about milk supply adequacy without objective measures
✗ Provide primary care for complex breastfeeding problems requiring clinical expertise
✗ Interpret lab results or medical tests related to lactation
✗ Perform frenotomy or other medical procedures
✗ Claim to have the same scope as International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs)
This clear scope of practice ensures that Certified Lactation Practitioners provide valuable support within appropriate professional boundaries, knowing when and how to refer to other specialists when needed.
The Process: How It Works
1
Enroll & Access Your Training
Jump into our interactive, easy-to-follow lessons that fit into YOUR schedule.
We’ve made this simple and stress-free so you can dive in, learn at your own pace, and start making an impact ASAP.
2
Develop Your Skills
Master the tools, strategies, and coaching techniques that will set you apart.
3
Get Certified & Start Supporting
Graduate with confidence and start building your business right away!
This is a flexible, go-at-your-own-pace program, so you can complete it while balancing work, family, or whatever else life throws your way.
Learn From an Industry Leader: Miss Gigi
Gloria "Miss Gigi" Young
Founder of Modern Parenthood Institute
Gloria brings over 15 years of experience as an infant specialist and professional educator. She has developed numerous training programs for the Modern Parenthood Institute and other organizations, including the Lactation Practitioner Program—crafted to provide compassionate, evidence-based education for those supporting breastfeeding families.
Professional Credentials:
Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
Integrative Parent Coach
Degree in Psychology
Current Doctoral Student in Holistic Therapy & Counseling
Board-Certified Craniosacral Therapist
Board-Certified Manual Lymphatic Drainage Practitioner
Lactation Instructor
Educator & Founder of multiple newborn and postpartum training programs
Owner of 2 Postpartum Agencies: Boston Harbor Baby & Magnolia Baby Company
Founder of New England Bodywork & Wellness Academy
"In a culture that often rushes parents toward independence and outcomes, we've lost touch with something sacred: the act of nourishing—body, mind, and bond. At Modern Parenthood Institute, we're reclaiming lactation support as more than a feeding method; it's a relational, physiological, and emotional foundation for life. This certification isn’t just about latching techniques and milk supply—it’s about restoring confidence in the parent-baby connection, honoring the postpartum journey, and equipping practitioners to hold space for one of the most transformative seasons in the human experience."
Why Become a Certified Lactation Practitioner?
Expand Your Services
Add valuable lactation support to your existing practice as a doula, newborn care specialist, sleep consultant, or other perinatal professional.
Increase Your Income
Offer specialized lactation services as standalone sessions or incorporate them into your care packages.
Make a Meaningful Difference
Support families during one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of early parenthood.
Build Your Confidence
Gain the skills to assess common breastfeeding issues, provide basic clinical support, and know when to refer to specialists.
What Makes Our CLP Program Unique?
Balanced Approach
Our 75-hour program bridges the gap between purely educational and fully clinical approaches to lactation support, giving you the perfect combination of knowledge and hands-on skills.
Modern & Evidence-Based
Curriculum developed by experienced lactation professionals using the latest research and best practices in lactation support.
Flexible & Accessible
Self-paced online learning allows you to complete the certification on your schedule while maintaining your current practice.
Practical Application
Focused on real-world skills you'll use daily with clients, including positioning, latch assessment, milk transfer evaluation, and common challenge resolution.
Community of Support
Join a network of like-minded professionals committed to supporting breastfeeding families.
Exclusive Benefits for MPI Students:
Lifetime access to the course—revisit the material anytime
Private Facebook group exclusively for MPI students
Official certification badge to proudly display on your website
Opportunities for live Q&A sessions with industry experts
Exclusive discounts on MPI-hosted conferences and events
And more!
Is This for You?
Let’s be real: If you’ve read this far, you already KNOW this is calling you.
This program was created for people just like you—people who are ready to take their passion for helping families and turn it into a career that changes lives.
Maybe you’ve been waiting for the “right time.” This is it.
Maybe you’ve doubted if you’re capable. You are.
Maybe you’ve wondered if you can make this a career. You can.
This is your moment. Don’t let it pass you by.
Investment in Your Future as a Certified Lactation Practitioner
Your journey to becoming a Certified Lactation Practitioner starts here.
PRE REGISTER NOW! PROGRAM UNLOCKS 2026
Pay in Full:
$897 USD (Save 10% when paying in full)
3 Monthly Payments:
$333 USD
6 Monthly Payments:
$170 USD
All payments are non-refundable. Please review our terms and conditions for more details.
Are You Ready to Say YES?
Your future as a Certified Lactation Practitioner is waiting. The freedom. The impact. The fulfillment. It’s all within reach.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’ll walk with you every step of the way.
FAQs
Common Questions About Lactation Practitioner Certification
How is the CLP different from other lactation certifications?
The Certified Lactation Practitioner program bridges the gap between educator-focused programs (like CLE) and clinical programs (like CLC). At 75 hours, it provides more comprehensive training than educator programs while focusing on the practical skills most relevant to birth and postpartum professionals.
Do I need prior experience to enroll?
While prior experience working with new families is beneficial, no specific prerequisites are required. This program is designed to be accessible to both new and experienced perinatal professionals.
How long do I have to complete the program?
You have lifetime access to all course materials and can complete the program entirely at your own pace. There are no deadlines or time restrictions - learn when it works best for your schedule.
Will this certification allow me to bill insurance?
The CLP certification does not currently qualify for insurance billing. For professionals seeking to bill insurance, we recommend pursuing the IBCLC credential.
How does this fit with other Modern Parenthood Institute certifications?
The CLP program complements our other certifications perfectly. Many of our students combine it with our Sleep Consultant, Newborn Care Specialist, or Parent Coach certifications to offer comprehensive family support.
What is Modern Parenthood Institute?
Modern Parenthood Institute (MPI) is a virtual school dedicated to training and certifying professionals in childcare, parenting, and holistic family support. Our programs cover a range of specialties, including pediatric sleep consulting, parent coaching, and newborn care, equipping students with expert knowledge and real-world skills to excel in their careers.
Who can enroll in your programs?
Our programs are open to anyone passionate about supporting families. Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare professional, caregiver, or someone seeking a career change, our courses provide the tools you need for professional success. Must be 18 years old to enroll in any of our programs.
Are your programs accredited?
Yes! Our programs are designed by industry experts and recognized by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP). Upon completing select programs, you can also become a Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, enhancing your credibility and career opportunities.
How long does it take to complete a course?
Our courses are self-paced, so you can study on your schedule. On average, most students complete their certification in about four months, though some finish in as little as 6–12 weeks, while others take longer depending on their availability. The best part? You have lifetime access to the course materials, so you can revisit and review the content whenever needed.
What are the technology requirements?
To access our courses, you’ll need:
A computer, tablet, or smartphone
A stable internet connection
Access to PDF viewers, video streaming, and downloadable materials
What are the program completion requirements?
To successfully complete our certification programs, students must complete all course modules, quizzes, and any required exams. For the Integrative Parent Coach Program, students must also complete a practicum, which includes conducting six 1-hour sessions with six different clients and submitting required session notes for review. To support you, we provide templates and guidance to ensure you meet these requirements with confidence. These standards help you gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience to serve your clients effectively.
How do I access the course materials?
Once you enroll, you’ll receive login credentials to our online learning platform, where you can access all course materials, including video lessons, workbooks, and resources. You can study at your own pace, anytime and anywhere, from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Can I work while taking your courses?
Absolutely! Our programs are designed for flexibility, allowing you to balance work, family, and studies. Whether you learn full-time or part-time, you can progress at your own pace.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! We offer flexible payment plans to make our programs accessible.
What support do you offer to students?
We are committed to your success! As a student, you’ll receive:
Expert mentorship & instructor support
Access to a private student Facebook group for networking & collaboration
Live Q&A sessions for additional guidance
Career support & business-building resources post-certification
Do you offer refunds?
Due to the digital nature of our courses and immediate access to content, we do not offer refunds. If you have a dispute or concern, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
How do I know if your programs are right for me?
Our courses are perfect for individuals who are passionate about supporting families and want to build a meaningful career in childcare, coaching, or holistic family wellness. If you’re unsure, you can schedule a discovery call with our founder, Miss Gigi, to discuss your goals and see if MPI is the right fit for you.
What additional benefits do I receive as a student?
When you enroll in MPI, you’ll also gain:
A professional certification badge to display on your website & marketing materials
Lifetime access to course materials for continued learning
Discounts on MPI-hosted conferences & events
Opportunities for networking & mentorship
Still have questions? Contact us today!
