Welcome to PTW's Lactation Mentorship Circle
Your journey to the IBCLC certification deserves support! PTW will provide that and much more!
Your Path to IBCLC Starts Here
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the IBCLC certification requirements? Do you need guidance, clinical hours, case reviews, and a supportive community to gain the confidence necessary to excel in lactation consulting? Well PTW's got you covered!
The path to becoming an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant is challenging, especially for professionals of Color who may face unique barriers and limited mentorship opportunities.
The PTW Lactation Mentorship Circle was created to increase access to the lactation field. We partner with community organizations to support families on their feeding journeys through virtual support groups, 1:1 consultations, prenatal breastfeeding education classes and more.
This membership-based program provides ongoing support, guidance, and community for aspiring IBCLCs of Color throughout their certification journey and beyond. So whether you're just getting started on your journey or only need clinical hours, you'll find a welcoming space where your experiences are valued and your success is our priority.
What’s Included in Your Membership?
1-on-1 Mentoring Sessions: Direct, individualized feedback from seasoned IBCLCs to review your clinical cases, discuss challenging scenarios, and set goals.
Group Case Studies & Clinical Discussions: Monthly group meetings to analyze complex cases, practice clinical decision-making, and learn from peers.
Virtual Shadowing & Observation: Access to virtual drop-in clinics, live virtual consults or recorded video sessions to observe assessment, counseling, and care plan development.
Clinical Hours Tracking & Documentation Support: Guidance on documenting your clinical experience for IBLCE submission, ensuring your hours meet Pathway 1 or Pathway 3 standards.
Exclusive Resource Library: Access to templates (clinical intake forms, provider notes, and care plans), webinar recordings, and evidence-based articles.
Priority Support: Dedicated WhatsApp Community for urgent questions regarding client care.
Why Join?
Flexible & Accessible: Build your clinical hours around your schedule without breaking the bank.
Evidence-Based Practice: Learn the latest, research-backed lactation methods.
Community Support: Connect with a network of peers navigating the same journey.
Confidence Building: Transition from observing to leading consultations with a mentor by your side.
Important Information
Application window is open twice each year, January 1st - February 28th & July 1st - August 28th. Five participants will be selected to start the 15th of the month following the closing of the application window (i.e. March 15th & September 15th). Upon being accepted, you will sign a participant agreement form and attend a group on-boarding session.
Training to become a breastfeeding support counselor will be 6 months in length. During this time, you will complete a comprehensive virtual lactation education training within the first 60 days of enrollment. After completing educational training and the necessary assessments, you will receive a certificate as a breastfeeding support counselor. Months 3 and 4 will consist of observing prenatal and postpartum consultations led by an IBCLC as well as sitting in on support groups to gain a better understanding of how to counsel and offer support to families. Months 5 and 6 will consist of an IBCLC shadowing you while you lead a support group and provide individual consultations for prenatal and postpartum families.
You will be observed randomly by an IBCLC on a monthly basis as you continue to provide care. Charts will be audited randomly. You will be required to complete case studies on a monthly basis and feedback will be provided to improve care and skills.
Enrollment fee: $850 (one-time, non-refundable payment)
Payment plans are available if needed.
Monthly membership fee of $60 applies after one year of enrollment for ongoing support.
Ready to become an IBCLC and serve your community with culturally responsive care? Click the link below to be added to the waitlist.
What are participants saying?
Brianna Castillo | Cohort 3 | Pathway 1 - April 2026 Test Candidate
I am extremely thankful for Dani and the mentorship she has provided through her Paving the Way – Diversity in Lactation program. She has supported me throughout the process of becoming eligible to sit for the IBCLC exam in April 2026 and has been an invaluable part of my journey.
Dani dedicated her time to helping me reach my 1,000 supervised hours, supported my growth in lactation education, and provided an organized, clear approach to managing all of the required tasks. She consistently shared useful information, insight, and encouragement.
She also connected me with an IBCLC exam study group, which has been an amazing added support. Overall, Dani has been incredibly knowledgeable, supportive, and intentional in her mentorship. I am truly grateful for her guidance and highly recommend her program to women of color pursuing lactation certification.
It is extremely important for us to put ourselves in positions to support other women of color especially through such a sensitive time/journey like motherhood and lactation.
Kalpita Pradhan, Nutritionist | Cohort 3 | Pathway 1 - April 2026 Test Candidate
I would highly recommend PTW and Dani's guidance if anyone is considering being an IBCLC. Dani has been an exceptional support for me in my journey mentoring me for the exam. The confidence & support she provides is so positive! Thank you, Dani, for all your help and for doing such a wonderful job!!
Taylor Smith, IBCLC, Doula | Cohort 1 | Pathway 1 - Sept 2023 Test Candidate
After meeting with Danielle initially about the status of my completion of the requirements toward obtaining my IBCLC credential, we were able to develop a strategic and time effective plan. Our initial meeting was in the spring of 2022. I had the benefit of already becoming a CLC; although Danielle made the goal of becoming an IBCLC seem, not only tangible for the first time but quickly achievable, I still suffered from self-doubt.
With Danielle’s consistent guidance and support, both mentally and financially, I felt extremely confident in my ability to make the goal my reality. I was able to complete all of my requirements by the deadline to register for the Fall exam! Danielle put together a study group that ran for 12 weeks; the information and study skills I’ve obtained through that group has been immeasurable. I am proud to say I was able to pass the IBCLC exam! I'm now working in a local hospital supporting families during the first hours and days of their journeys setting them up for success!
© 2026 Paving The Way: Diversity In Lactation, Inc