I am new to Lactnet and have been very interested in the discussion re: LC training/mentoring. I spent 6 years as a staff nurse in Seattle's primary pediatric hospital's NICU, a position which evolved into a LC (or should I say breastfeeding counselor?) role after I took lactation coursework offered by another hospital. My LC duties were performed simultaneously wiith my staff RN job (thus there was no additional recognition nor compensation). I thoroughly enjoyed what I did and in fact was asked to develop a lactation service for the hospital (yes, I was disappointed that there wasn't one already in existence at a highly reputable facility serving a four state area!!) Things did not work out, unfortunately, as my family and I relocated rather suddenly to a small community in western WA where there is a crying need for breastfeeding services! Now I am a SAH Mom expecting our 3rd baby in 7 weeks. I have breastfed for a total of 53 months and will extend that number soon.=) There is one IBCLC is the entire COUNTY with whom I have joined forces to try and meet some of the community's needs. We serve on the county BF task force and are in process of getting the word out about our services. SLOW going at best esp w/ regard to insurance and billing! The local hospital is resistant to any formal program being established there and freely dispenses AIM. BF rates in the area are rather dismal with an incredible amt. of misinformation being distributed. I am not yet an IBCLC because as I understand the qualifications, I do not have enough hours to sit for the exam. After reading these posts, I wonder if I am more properly titled a BF "counselor" rather than an LC. I am, like others, wanting to put in my time and do the job right, not be just a 'wannabe' or 'ersatz' LC. It seems somewhat like a catch-22 situation for me at this point. I am considering asking my business partner if she would mentor me rather than having us be full partners. The liability issue is also a real one. Sorry to ramble, but this thread has raised lots of thoughts. Ann Marie >Peace<