Texas DSHS Trained Breastfeeding Educator Program

What is a DSHS Trained Breastfeeding Educator (TBE)?

• A Trained Breastfeeding Educator possesses a certificate stating they have successfully completed the courses, Principles of Lactation Management (POLM) and Lactation Counseling and Problem Solving (LCAPS) and can answer basic breastfeeding questions on anatomy of the breast, evaluate and assist moms with latch-on, and identify successful breastfeeding.

How do I sign up for the classes to become a Trained Breastfeeding Educator?

• To register for the classes, please visit the registration page.
• Confirmations are sent out weekly, usually on Thursday or Friday, via email.
  

Is there a fee or test to become a Trained Breastfeeding Educator?

• There is a $60 registration fee for each class but no other cost to receive a TBE certificate and no test to take.

What does the TBE designation allow me to do?

• By having the TBE designation, you are more knowledgeable in the area of lactation and are able to assist with basic breastfeeding education. Complex breastfeeding issues are not within this scope of practice and referrals should be made to a healthcare provider or an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) for further evaluation and treatment.
• In some cases, this designation may help you initiate a lactation program in your facility.
• Our courses follow along with the IBLCE Exam Blueprint and may help you further your education in becoming an IBCLC.

Does my TBE certificate expire?

• Yes. The TBE certificate will expire five (5) years from the date you completed the POLM course.
• We encourage you to seek additional education and possibly pursue IBCLC certification within this 5 year period. Our courses do not provide all of the education requirements to sit for the exam. See what is required to sit for the IBLCE exam.

Can I request these classes be done at my facility?

• Yes and no. These classes are not offered ‘by request’. These classes have a set schedule for the year with multiple instructors. The Principles of Lactation Management class is offered 6 times per year (every odd-numbered month). The Lactation Counseling and Problem Solving class is offered 8-10 times per year.
• Your agency may ask to get on the list of potential hosts for a calendar year but keep in mind it could be 2-3 years away.
• The classes are done annually in Austin/San Antonio, Houston area, and Dallas/Fort Worth.

The other 3 locations are rotated on a regional basis:

• North/Northwest: Amarillo, El Paso, Odessa or Wichita Falls
• South: Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, or Weslaco
• East/Northeast: Beaumont, Longview, Nacogdoches, Tyler

I am unable to travel. Do you offer these courses online? 

• Unfortunately, no. We only offer the TBE classes onsite or in person.
  

Questions?

More information and register for training courses

Call Missy Hammer at 512-341-4457 or e-mail Missy.Hammer@dshs.state.tx.us.