I strongly believe only IBCLCs should use the title "Lactation
Consultant". You don't call someone a doctor until they pass their
boards. You don't call a law school grad a laywer until they pass their
boards. Etc, etc, etc. Many clients are just learning that Lactation
Consultants exist. They aren't going to know to ask whether or not one
is International Board Certified. How many of us ask if a doctor is
board certified? When one uses a title, many of us assume (yes, I know
what that can do) that the person is a professional and certified or
licensed as such.
Please use Lactation Consultant for IBCLCs only!
Kym Smythe, IBCLC