Infant Feeding Support at Gathering Wellness Collaborative

Every feeding journey is unique, and sometimes you and your little one might need a helping hand along the way. At Gathering Wellness Collaborative, we’re excited to offer specialized infant feeding support from our Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Emily, who works alongside our chiropractic team to provide comprehensive care for you and your baby – whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, formula feeding, or using a combination approach.

“Feeding your baby is about nourishment and connection, and every family finds their own path,” explains Emily. “When parents are supported properly in their chosen feeding method, we can help create a feeding relationship that nurtures both body and bond.”

Many feeding challenges have simple solutions when you have the right guidance. As a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, Emily conducts thorough assessments of both mother and baby to identify the root causes of any difficulties you may be experiencing. She provides gentle, evidence-based support tailored to your unique needs and goals, empowering you with practical techniques and knowledge to help your journey thrive – whatever feeding method work best for your family.

How Infant Feeding Support Works

During your consultation, Emily will take time to understand your feeding goals, listen to your concerns, and observe a feeding session when appropriate. Together, you’ll develop a personalized plan that respects your choices and supports your breastfeeding relationship.

Our infant feeding support services include:

  • Assessing latch and positioning for comfortable, effective breastfeeding
  • Supporting parents with combination feeding (breast/bottle/formula)
  • Providing guidance on bottle feeding techniques that promote bonding and development
  • Helping with formula selection and preparation when needed
  • Addressing common challenges like painful nursing, poor weight gain, or bottle refusal
  • Providing guidance on feeding frequency and duration
  • Supporting you through concerns about infant output and milk transfer
  • Offering practical strategies for parents returning to work (pumping schedules, milk storage, etc.)
  • Helping with selection and use of breast pumps
  • Assisting parents of preterm babies with establishing and maintaining appropriate feeding
  • Problem-solving issues before they lead to feeding stress

Emily works collaboratively with our chiropractic team when needed, creating a holistic approach to mother and baby wellness. While the services are separate, this integrated approach allows us to address both structural and functional aspects of feeding success when necessary.

A Parent’s Feeding Journey

The early days of parenthood are filled with both joy and challenges. Emily understands the emotional aspects of the feeding journey and provides support that nurtures the whole family without judgment. Her experience as a nurse in a newborn recovery nursery has given her a deep appreciation for the unique needs of each parent-infant pair.

“When a parent feels heard, supported, and empowered in their feeding decisions, it creates a ripple effect throughout the entire family,” shares Emily. “A more comfortable, confident feeding experience means a more regulated nervous system for both baby and parent, which impacts overall family wellness.”

Below are some common questions and answers to help you prepare for your infant feeding support visit at GWC:

Q) How is a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist helpful for all feeding methods?

While the certification title includes “breastfeeding,” a CBS has training in supporting families through all aspects of infant feeding. Emily provides guidance for breastfeeding, pumping, bottle feeding, formula feeding, and combination approaches. She’ll meet you where you are and support the feeding method that works best for your family.

Q) When is the best time to schedule an infant feeding support visit?

You can schedule a visit at any point in your feeding journey! Preventative visits during pregnancy or the early days after birth can help establish good practices from the start. However, many families reach out when challenges arise—and that’s perfectly fine too. The sooner we can address any difficulties, the easier they typically are to resolve, but it’s never too late to seek support.

Q) What should I bring to my appointment?

We recommend bringing your baby (ready to feed during the visit if possible), any feeding supplies you normally use (like bottles, nipple shields, pumps, or formula), and a list of any specific concerns or questions. If you have a partner or support person who helps with feeding, they’re welcome to join as well!

Q) How much does infant feeding support cost?

$40 per visit. We believe quality feeding support should be accessible to all families.

Q) How does infant feeding support connect with chiropractic care?

While infant feeding support and chiropractic care are separate services, they can complement each other beautifully. Sometimes, feeding challenges may have a structural component that can be addressed through gentle pediatric chiropractic techniques. Our specialist works collaboratively with our chiropractors when appropriate to provide comprehensive care for both parent and baby, supporting optimal nervous system function that benefits the feeding relationship.

Q) Do I need to be a chiropractic patient to receive infant feeding support?

Not at all! While many families choose to utilize both services, you’re welcome to schedule infant feeding support as a standalone service.

Q) How many visits will I need?

Every feeding journey is different. Some families find that one or two visits provide the guidance they need, while others benefit from ongoing support. After your initial consultation, Emily will help you determine what follow-up care might be beneficial for your specific situation.

Q) I’ve decided to formula feed—is this service still for me?

Absolutely! Emily provides support for all feeding methods, including exclusive formula feeding. She can help with bottle feeding techniques, formula selection, preparation tips, and ways to maintain that special feeding bond with your baby.

“I believe every family deserves compassionate, evidence-based support to meet their feeding goals. Whether you’re just starting  to breastfeed, pump, formula feed, or facing new challenges along your journey, I’m here to help you and your little one thrive together.” – Emily

Begin Your Feeding Journey with Support

Experience the difference that knowledgeable, empathetic feeding support can make for your family. Contact our team to easily schedule your first appointment with Emily, our Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, and take a positive step toward a fulfilling feeding relationship—whatever that looks like for you.

CONTACT US 

Breastfeeding Support | (678) 552-9140