compassionate infant feeding assistance
Serving Ventura and Los Angeles Counties
Nikki Brown-Barton, BS, IBCLC
Lactation Consultant (and mom!)
I'm sooo glad you're here! This whole breastfeeding thing doesn't come easy. Our bodies expect to do it, our babies expect to do it, but that doesn't mean we know how to do it. Add in the craziness of a new little addition to your family, and UFF DA! (That's "oh man!" in Norweigian) Despite support and education, I was caught totally off guard and experienced a myriad of hurdles with my first daughter. With the help of an experienced lactation consultant, I was able to get back on track and successfully transition from formula feeding to exclusive breastfeeding to a pumping & nursing, working mom! As an IBCLC, now I have the honor of helping families in return.
Originally from Minnesota, I grew up on a large family farm (on KIMBRO Avenue) that included LOTS of laying hens and dairy cattle. As a 7th generation dairy farmer, I've been involved in milk making all my life! My deep relationship with animals led me to a Bachelor's of Science in Animal Science and a certificate in Theriogenology at the University of Wisconsin. Since then, as both a small animal anesthetist and an equine veterinary technician, my background has laid the foundation for an understanding and appreciation for the biological norm of nursing, and great clinical and communication skills (because all my patients had parents...err...owners).
My lactation education was completed at the University of California-San Diego. First a Certified Lactation Educator Counselor, I then completed the rigorous Lactation Consultant program, requiring hundreds of hours of hands-on, clinical training with diverse families in all feeding journeys at both a local private practice and the highly regarded Great Starts Clinic at Kaiser Permanente in Woodland Hills. When working with families, my goal is to hold a judgment free space so that we can work together on your feeding goals. I want to educate you on the necessary skills, encourage you to push through those trying times, and empower you to continue on!
In-Home and Virtual Consultations
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Parents Recommend
Haley T.
“Amazing! You were so crucial in my breastfeeding journey. It took quite a bit of time, energy, and effort but you were awesome at helping me stay positive and continue to work towards successful breastfeeding. You were so knowledgeable and helpful!!"
Christina B.
“Nikki was a wonderful lactation consultant! Unfortunately, I was unable to meet with Nikki in person so she had a consultation with me over video chat and helped me through those first few horrible days. Nikki reviewed my nursing techniques and helped improve my latch and demonstrate different comfortable ways to nurse. Nikki was knowledgeable and patient. The first few days postpartum were some of the most difficult days of my life. I’m so glad Nikki was able to make my life easier (and my nipples more comfortable) in such a time of need. Thank you Nikki!”
Lauren S.
“I was so fortunate to cross paths with Nikki. There was an instant connection and understanding. She pushed me in the right direction when it came to breastfeeding my twin girls. If it wasn’t for her, I’m not sure I would have been as successful or reached my breastfeeding goals. 11 months later and we are still breastfeeding. I have Nikki to thank for that.”