Wait…an OT for Breastfeeding?
Yes! Occupational therapists (OTs) are trained to support the way babies function, which includes sucking, swallowing, bonding, and moving their bodies in ways that support feeding. However, it does takes additional training and experience to truly understand the complexities of breastfeeding.
When you're struggling with feeding your baby, whether it's a painful latch, poor weight gain, or a tongue tie diagnosis, you may hear suggestions to “see an OT.” But here’s the thing: not all occupational therapists are trained to support breastfeeding. So how do you find the right one?
At Nourishing Development, we specialize in exactly that. If you're looking for an OT near you, here's what to look for:
IBCLC or Breastfeeding-Specific Credentials
The gold standard is an OT who is also an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), which means they have done extensive training in human lactation and passed a rigorous board exam. Other relevant credentials include:
Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS)
CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor)
These certifications show that your OT understands feeding from both a functional and lactation perspective.
Experience with Oral Motor Development
Feeding isn’t just about milk, it’s about how a baby moves their tongue, jaw, lips, and face. A knowledgeable OT will assess:
Tongue mobility (think: ties, tension, coordination)
Suck-swallow-breathe rhythm
Posture and positioning (at the breast and during developmental activities, think tummy time)
Oral rest posture (where the tongue is when not feeding)
They will also know how these oral motor skills affect sleep, breathing, and long-term development.
Training in Tethered Oral Tissues (Tongue/Lip Ties)
Many families seek help after a tongue tie release or when a provider suspects one. Not all therapists understand the functional concerns of tethered oral tissues or how to support rehab before and after a frenectomy.
A knowledgeable OT will:
Know when to refer to a release provider
Support whole body movement and oral motor preparation pre-release
Provide post-release exercises and feeding strategies
Communicate with your whole care team
A Whole-Body Approach
Breastfeeding is a full-body activity for a baby. If they’re stiff, tense, floppy, or dysregulated, feeding will be harder.
Look for an OT who incorporates:
TummyTime!™ Method
Nervous system regulation (how babies feel safe and connected)
Gentle movement and positioning support
Parent-infant connection and bonding
Feeding improves when babies feel safe, supported, and regulated.
Parent Education and Emotional Support
The feeding journey is emotional. Look for an OT who not only has technical knowledge but can hold space for your experience:
Encourages questions
Validates your instincts
Respects your goals (nursing, pumping, bottle, combo)
Supports your mental health
You deserve a provider who listens, not just checks boxes.
If something feels off with your baby’s feeding, it probably is. You shouldn’t have to “wait and see” or feel like you’re overreacting.
A skilled OT with breastfeeding expertise can be the missing link in your care team.
Need Help?
If you're in Genesee County, MI or surrounding areas, we’re here for you. Nourishing Development specializes in supporting babies with feeding challenges, tongue ties, and motor delays, using a blend of lactation consulting, occupational therapy, and whole-family support. If you live out of our service area, feel free to reach out for assistance in connecting with another provider.
📅 Book a consult today or 📩 Contact us to learn more.
