Frequently asked questions
What does an “OT-guided approach” mean?
Occupational therapy (OT) is a healthcare profession dedicated to helping individuals engage in their most meaningful activities to the best of their abilities. It is evidenced based and centered on the needs of clients and their families. Essentially I think of myself as someone who provides lactation services, through my lens as an occupational therapist.
For an OT with a focus on lactation, this means it is not enough just to have the baby well-fed and gaining weight. Because infant feeding involves two people (a co-occupation), the many influences that impact the mother’s health and wellness are also critical to optimal functioning for the family unit.
There are so many lactation acronyms. What are the differences?
There are so many! I also know it can be confusing. I am a CLC, or Certified Lactation Counselor, This is a certificate awarded to me by the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice after a minimum of 95 hours of didactic training, a passing grade on an exam, and a demonstration of clinical competencies and skills. With this certificate, I am able to educate, assess, and provide recommendations about breastfeeding to my client.
The International Board Certified Lactation Certificate (IBCLC) is a more highly advanced certificate, awarded to qualified individuals who are already healthcare professionals (or who have taken healthcare prerequisites), who have completed additional didactic and clinical hours, and who have passed the IBCLC exam. IBCLCs are able to manage breastfeeding and lactation for more complex situations: recurring mastitis, suspected tongue tie, etc. I have completed all of the necessary training to become an IBCLC and will sit for the exam in early 2025.
My commitment to you: If we work together and it turns out that you and your baby are experiencing a complex issue and need a higher level of care, I will ensure you are handed off to another provider warmly and promptly.
Why don’t you take insurance?
I have chosen not to be in-network with insurance companies at this time, because of the many limitations/requirements. In the future, when I obtain my International Board Certified Lactation Certificate (IBCLC), the plan is to be an in-network provider with at least some plans.
For clients with out-of-network benefits, services by Rose Duffy Lactation may be reimbursable usually between 50-70%. I am happy to provide you with an itemized superbill at the end of our sessions, which you can submit to your insurance. (If you have a PPO insurance plan, you are more likely to have out-of-network benefits. Check with your insurance provider to verify).
I don’t see a time on your schedule that works for me. Can you help?
If you don’t see a time on the booking schedule that works for you, please email me and we can try to coordinate an alternative option.
I’m an established client but have a question or two! What’s the best way to communicate?
Feel free to email me. I respond within 24-48 business hours. If you feel like you have multiple questions and want a more thorough response, feel free to book an infant feeding follow up and we can ensure all of your follow up questions are answered!
What are your general hours?
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. I’m available evenings and weekends as needed by appointment. Please reach out to me for any scheduling needs.
Resources
Find a local breastfeeding support group near you. Lots of peer support!
Postpartum Support International
This is an organization dedicated to raising awareness about the emotional changes women can experience during the perinatal period. This organization holds LOTS of virtual support groups, organized by specific need.
The Internet is not necessarily your friend postpartum! But I can vouch for this website, and it can be a great go-to. Search for any breastfeeding or lactation related question and find an evidence-based answer.