Lactation Counseling Services
Hey there!
We are Jess Ahlum & Rachael Birkenhauer and together we make: The Tongue Tie Team!
We are a specially trained, integrative team helping babies feed better
& feel better!
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Jess is a National Board Certified and NC State Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist specializing in manual therapy for the pre-crawling baby. She has extensive training, including a Masters in Clinical Psychology. As a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, she takes particular interest in empowering families, she is further able to do this as a certified Tummy Time! Method Professional and a Certified Instructor of Infant Massage. Her practice Happy Families Happy Babies est. 2008, supports families through couples coaching, birth, bonding, bodywork classes and more.
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Rachael is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and Certified Lactation Counselor. She began expanding breastfeeding support in Wilmington five years ago after breastfeeding her two children a fire sparked and her passion grew to support and promote breastfeeding. She is also a local La Leche League Leader, Peer Counselor and active in our Breastfeeding and Mothering Community. Rachael owns Lactation Counseling Services. est. 2015
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We both have years of experience in our individual fields as well as hands on clinical training in the field of oral restrictions and frenectomy care.
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Full Oral Assessments with our multi-disciplinary team can be scheduled directly with Renaissance Dental.
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Want the scoop on Tongue and Lip ties? Learn more about signs, symptoms and treatment here.
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Want to know more about the long-term effects of tongue and lip ties? click here
Tongue & Lip Ties can sometimes be a hot topic However, it is important to support families and give the most up to date resources so you, as the parents can make the best decision for your family.
Why Lactation & Bodywork (Oral Therapy)?
What we do:
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Assess using validated tools for function and appearance
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Infant Body assessment
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Breastfeeding history & assessment
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Referral if needed
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Care Plan and follow-up care post revision regardless if a release is needed.
We offer a team approach to properly and thoroughly assess oral restrictions (tongue and lip ties.)Using validated tools, experience and hands-on training we assess and refer to local providers with a strong emphasis on follow-up lactation support and bodywork.
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We educate on signs and symptoms of ties, body work in relation to oral restrictions, pre and post release care and support.
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Videos on aftercare:
Gentle Facial Oral therapy with Jess Ahlum
Baby wearing with Wrapping Rachael
Co-bathing with Oasis Lactation
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Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment for our Integrative Care Consultations.
