Could you please provide the exact differences between a CLE and IBCLC ?  I know that there are different agencies/organizations providing a variety of certifications out there but I a bit confused about what is what, and what a IBCLC can provide that a CLE cannot, etc.  Are there other lactation certifications one can obtain (Lactation Counselor?)?  My understanding is that CLE is mainly a "California" term and is not really offered other places - ?

My agency recently trained thirty-seven new CLEs to assist not only in their regular work assignments but also to assist with a volunteer bf support line (which is running beautifully!).  Recently there has been some disagreements with our local IBCLCs (we have three) that our CLEs are not adequately trained to provide lactation support via telephone.  So what does one need?  These women received four full days of intensive education after being screened initially for the program.  We loved (!) what our trainers provided and very confident in the information our CLEs are giving out.  It's just our IBCLCs that seem to have difficulty.

I am *very* interested to hear everyone's opinions!!

Thanks,
Amy Smith
Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies of KC
Bakersfield, CA

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