How it Works

Phase 1: Observation (unpaid)

  • You will virtually observe the mentor providing clinical care so you will become familiar with the clinical setting, the mentor’s approach, and common breastfeeding challenges. Hours in this phase do not count towards the required 500 clinical hours. 

  • You must meet the observation requirements of 20 hours total (at least 5 with LCB). Once both you and your mentor agree you are ready, you will progress to Phase 2.

Phase 2: Transition to Clinical Practice (paid)

  • You will begin to lead appointments with clients under the direct virtual supervision of the mentor. This may involve assisting with breastfeeding assessments, developing care plans, and providing support to families. 

  • The focus is on the mentor providing guidance and feedback as you gain experience and confidence in providing lactation care.

  • Payment: You receive $40 per visit ($20 for mom, $20 for baby) once the insurance pays the claim. You’ll receive a billing statement bi-weekly showing which claims have been paid and which have been submitted but not paid out yet.

Phase 3: Supervised Independent Practice (pay increase)

  • You begin taking appointments and providing care independently, with the mentor available to provide ongoing supervision, support, guidance, and consultation as needed. While your mentor will not be present during each appointment, they will be readily available to provide support as needed via messaging and video call. 

  • This phase allows you to refine your skills and build confidence in providing independent lactation care. 

  • Payment: You receive $60 per visit ($30 for mom, $30 for baby) once the insurance pays the claim. You receive a billing statement bi-weekly showing which claims have been paid and which have been submitted but not paid out yet.

Phase 4: The Waiting Period (pay increase)

There will be 4-5 months of waiting between finishing the requirements to apply for the IBCLC exam and actually taking the exam. Then you’ll need to wait another 6-12 weeks to find out if you passed the exam.

  • During this waiting period you will continue to take appointments independently.

  • Payment: Rate will increase to 75% of the amount collected from insurance minus a $15 processing fee per claim for using LCB’s group insurance contracts.

Phase 5: IBCLC Certification (pay increase)

Congratulations, you passed! You are now an IBCLC.

  • Once you have passed your IBCLC exam, you will have the option to sign a contract to stay with LCB. 

  • Payment: You will begin earning 88% of the amount collected from insurance and LCB will retain a 12% billing fee.

  • LCB can help you get your own contracts with insurance companies. If you choose to continue using LCB’s insurance contracts, you will be charged a $15 processing fee per claim.

Apply for Mentorship