Kristi - Speech Language Therapist and Lactation Consultant

My Qualifications

I am Kristi Exley, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and a Paediatric Speech Language Therapist.

I am a registered member of the New Zealand Speech Language Therapy Association and New Zealand Lactation Consultants Association. I hold a Masters Degree in Speech Language Therapy (MSLTPrac) from the University of Auckland and a Bachelor's Degree majoring in Psychology from Victoria, Canada which is why I have an accent.

My Experience

I have extensive experience working with babies and children, having worked for numerous Child Development Teams. I have worked in the community as well as on the Paediatric ward and Special Care Baby Unit. I work with other health professionals at Milk & Honey Paediatrics.

My Passion

I adore working with families. I understand the challenges of being a busy parent as I am one myself. I have two children and a silly staffy mix.

My approach is to follow an infant and child's cues and feed responsively resulting in a positive feeding experience for you and your child.

Why work with me?

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is the highest level of breastfeeding support and have very specific training. IBCLCs either come from a healthcare background or have to sit 14 health science related subjects before applying for the exam. They also need to do 95 hours of lactation specific training and have to have 500-1000 hours of clinical practice depending on the pathway completed before being allowed to apply for the exam.

IBCLCs are required to keep up to date with current research by attending conferences and webinars. They resubmit for their IBCLC certificate every 5 years with proof of attending 75 hours of training.

IBCLCs can support you with a range of issues such as breastfeeding problems, faltering growth, tongue tie assessment, reflux, a non-latching baby, as well as more straightforward breastfeeding support.

IBCLCs are also obliged to work according to the IBLCE Code of Professional Conduct. Some people may give breastfeeding advice as a ‘Lactation Consultant” or “Breastfeeding Specialist”. When looking for quality breastfeeding support you can ensure they are an IBCLC at the IBLCE registry.

I am dually trained as a Speech Language Therapist. I have a Master's Degree in SLT from the University of Auckland as well as a 4 year Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Victoria in Canada.

Speech Language Therapists have specialist knowledge in swallowing disorders, feeding and communication. Speech Language Therapists in health work with infants and children who have communication or feeding problems or disabilities making feeding challenging.