Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of maternal health, the importance of breastfeeding peer counselors has never been more profound.

In this age of advanced health consciousness, with each step, the demand for compassionate individuals who can guide, support, and ensure optimal breastfeeding practices amplifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a breastfeeding peer counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager determining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the crucial role of breastfeeding peer counseling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable breastfeeding peer counselor job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors provide support, advice, and encouragement to mothers who choose to breastfeed their infants.

They use their personal experience and trained knowledge to help mothers overcome potential challenges and foster a successful breastfeeding experience.

The duties and responsibilities of a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor include:

• Offering information and support to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers on a variety of topics, including the benefits of breastfeeding, overcoming common challenges, and maintaining personal health during breastfeeding
• Conducting one-on-one counseling sessions with mothers, both in person and over the phone
• Leading or participating in group support sessions or workshops related to breastfeeding
• Referring mothers to lactation specialists or other medical professionals when necessary
• Keeping accurate records of interactions with mothers, including their questions, concerns, and progress
• Staying up-to-date on the latest research and developments in breastfeeding and infant nutrition
• Developing and distributing educational materials related to breastfeeding
• Collaborating with healthcare providers and community organizations to promote and support breastfeeding

 

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and knowledgeable Breastfeeding Peer Counselor to provide support and guidance to new mothers about breastfeeding.

The responsibilities include one-to-one support, educating mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding, providing practical advice, and troubleshooting common breastfeeding issues.

Our ideal candidate has personal breastfeeding experience and a strong commitment to promoting public health through breastfeeding support.

The goal of a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is to encourage mothers to feel confident and comfortable during their breastfeeding journey.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide empathetic and non-judgmental breastfeeding support to mothers
• Offer practical advice on breastfeeding techniques and overcoming common challenges
• Educate mothers on the benefits of breastfeeding and the use of breast pumps
• Record and monitor the progress of mothers and babies
• Refer mothers to lactation consultants or healthcare providers when necessary
• Attend regular training and stay up-to-date with the latest breastfeeding advice and guidelines
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support
• Facilitate breastfeeding support groups

 

Qualifications

• Personal experience breastfeeding
• Completion of a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor training program is preferred
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to relate to diverse groups of people
• Strong knowledge about breastfeeding and ability to handle sensitive issues
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Breastfeeding Peer Counselor
• Work Environment: This position often involves home visits, hospital visits, and facilitating support groups. Some phone and virtual consultations may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Breastfeeding Program Coordinator or a similar role.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $40,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your personal breastfeeding experience and why you are passionate about supporting breastfeeding mothers to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Do?

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are professionals who provide guidance, support and education to mothers who are breastfeeding.

Their work is often centered around public health organizations or maternity hospitals, but they can also offer private services.

They are responsible for promoting the benefits of breastfeeding to expecting mothers, as well as teaching them various breastfeeding techniques and positions.

They also educate mothers about the nutritional needs of infants and how breastfeeding can meet those needs.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors provide personal counseling to mothers experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding.

This can involve offering solutions for common problems such as latching difficulties, painful nursing, and low milk production.

They also play an important role in creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.

This could involve organizing support groups, conducting educational workshops, and advocating for breastfeeding-friendly policies in workplaces and public spaces.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are typically mothers themselves who have personal breastfeeding experience.

This allows them to relate to and empathize with the mothers they are supporting.

Their ultimate goal is to help mothers establish and maintain successful breastfeeding relationships with their infants, thereby contributing to the health and well-being of both mother and child.

 

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Breastfeeding Peer Counselor should have the skills and qualifications that comply with the job description, such as:

• Having a comprehensive knowledge about breastfeeding, lactation, and infant nutrition to provide accurate and helpful guidance to new mothers.
• Empathy and understanding to connect with new mothers, building trust and providing emotional support.
• Effective communication skills to explain complex information in a simple, understandable manner, and to listen attentively to the concerns and issues of new mothers.
• Patient and calm demeanor to handle stressful situations and provide reassurance to new mothers.
• Experience or personal history of breastfeeding can be very beneficial, as it allows the counselor to provide firsthand insight and advice.
• Ability to work well with healthcare professionals, such as midwives, obstetricians, and pediatricians, to provide comprehensive support to mothers.
• Problem-solving skills to help mothers overcome common breastfeeding challenges like latching difficulties, milk supply issues, and breastfeeding pain.
• Respect for the personal choices and cultural differences of new mothers, promoting a non-judgmental and inclusive environment.

 

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Experience Requirements

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors usually require extensive personal breastfeeding experience, as this is essential for providing empathetic and practical support to new mothers.

They should have successfully breastfed at least one child for a minimum of 6 months.

In addition to this, they usually complete a certified training program, such as the World Health Organization/UNICEF’s 40-hour breastfeeding counselor course, or similar training provided by organizations like La Leche League or the American Breastfeeding Institute.

Many Breastfeeding Peer Counselors begin their careers through volunteering roles, gaining hands-on experience in breastfeeding clinics, hospitals, or community centers, often under the supervision of a Lactation Consultant.

Those with more than 2 years of counseling experience are generally considered as skilled and ready to take on more complex cases.

They may also be able to provide training and supervision to less experienced counselors.

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors with more than 5 years of experience may have developed additional skills, such as training in mental health support or baby nutrition, which can enhance their counseling practice.

They may also be ready to take on leadership roles within a peer counseling program, or to work as a private consultant.

 

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Education and Training Requirements

Breastfeeding Peer Counselors typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

They undergo a training program that is usually provided by the health department, lactation consultant, or breastfeeding promotion programs.

This training focuses on the basics of breastfeeding, problem-solving, counseling skills, and cultural competency, among others.

After completing the training, Breastfeeding Peer Counselors are often required to earn a certificate as a Lactation Counselor or similar.

This certification usually involves a written and practical exam, demonstrating that the counselor has the necessary skills and knowledge to support and educate mothers about breastfeeding.

Some positions may require counselors to be mothers who have successfully breastfed their own child, as this experience provides valuable insights and understanding.

Although not mandatory, some Breastfeeding Peer Counselors might choose to further their education and become International Board Certified Lactation Consultants.

This requires additional training and coursework, as well as passing a comprehensive exam.

Ongoing professional development is encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and practices in the field of lactation.

This might include workshops, seminars, or additional coursework.

 

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Salary Expectations

A Breastfeeding Peer Counselor typically earns an average salary of $38,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings may fluctify based on experience, the specific healthcare setting, and geographical location.

 

Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor need?

A Breastfeeding Peer Counselor does not necessarily need a degree, but they should have personal breastfeeding experience.

They should also have successfully completed a peer counseling training program, such as the one offered by the World Health Organization (WHO) or La Leche League.

Some roles may require certification as a lactation counselor or consultant.

 

What are the responsibilities of a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor?

A Breastfeeding Peer Counselor provides support and education to mothers about the benefits and techniques of breastfeeding.

They can offer guidance on overcoming common breastfeeding challenges, teach various nursing positions, and provide advice on maintaining lactation.

The counselor also helps in creating a comfortable and supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.

 

What skills should a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor possess?

A Breastfeeding Peer Counselor should have good listening and communication skills to understand the concerns and needs of new mothers.

They should also be empathetic, patient, and supportive.

Knowledge of breastfeeding techniques and challenges is also essential.

Being able to provide accurate information and practical tips in a non-judgmental manner is crucial in this role.

 

What makes a good Breastfeeding Peer Counselor?

A good Breastfeeding Peer Counselor is one who is passionate about promoting breastfeeding and supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey.

They should be comfortable discussing sensitive topics and be able to provide reassurance and encouragement.

A good counselor also stays updated on latest research and guidelines related to breastfeeding.

 

What should you look for in a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor resume?

When evaluating a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor’s resume, look for evidence of breastfeeding knowledge and experience, as well as any relevant certifications.

Personal breastfeeding experience can also be a plus.

Communication and interpersonal skills are crucial, so look for roles or responsibilities that demonstrate these abilities.

Volunteering or working in maternal or child health programs, or experience in counseling or support roles may also be beneficial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the true nature of being a breastfeeding peer counselor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about sharing knowledge.

It’s about nurturing the next generation, one feeding session at a time.

With our comprehensive breastfeeding peer counselor job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to step up.

But don’t stop there.

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to creating precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every breastfeeding session contributes to a healthier, happier future.

Let’s nurture that future. Together.

How to Become a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor (Complete Guide)

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