WIC PEER COUNSELOR

Definition

Under the supervision of an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant or WIC Coordinator, provides breastfeeding information and support to other mothers; helps mothers manage common breastfeeding concerns and overcome common barriers to breastfeeding; does related work as required.

Examples of work

• Provide peer counseling on common questions about breastfeeding and helps mothers manage common breastfeeding concerns.
• Select and provide targeted breastfeeding handouts to participants.
• Interview pregnant women in the WIC clinic to obtain needed breastfeeding history.
• Disseminate basic breastfeeding information in the WIC clinic, hospital, home or by phone as needed, either individually or as a member of a team.
• Promote breastfeeding as the normal method of infant feeding; explores any barriers the client may have; helps to problem solve and find acceptable solutions.
• Facilitate discussion groups on breastfeeding and counsels individual women.
• Make periodic contacts with all clients on assigned caseload and keep accurate records.
• Keep client information strictly confidential.
• Make referrals according to established protocols to the WIC Competent Professional Authority, lactation consultant, the mother's physician, a public health program in the community, or a social service agency.
• Attend staff meetings.
• Meet monthly with supervisor to review caseload.
• Measures infant's weight and height.
• Enter required documentation into computer.
• Promote public breastfeeding health goals.
• Keep the breastfeeding supply cabinets neat and presentable.
• Applies established security procedures and guidelines for breastfeeding equipment.
• Reads assigned books and materials.
• Attend breastfeeding workshops or seminars as appropriate
• Perform other duties as assigned to promote and support breastfeeding.
• Provide breastfeeding help outside the usual clinic hours and outside the WIC clinic environment.
• Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency or related units.

Requirements

The requirements of this position will be as outlined in WIC Program Consolidated Regulations, 7 CFR Ch. II, Subpart D, - 246.11, USDA guidance including the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) Loving Support Model for a Successful Peer Counseling Program and New Jersey WIC Services Policy and Procedures.

License

Appointee will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

• Knowledge of breastfeeding techniques.
• Knowledge of available community breastfeeding services.
• Ability to meet and deal with a wide variety of clients.
• Ability to understand clients' conditions and problems.
• Ability to deal courteously with clients.
• Ability to follow written and oral orders, directions, or plans.
• Ability to keep accurate records.
• Ability to conduct interviews to gather needed information.
• Ability to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
• Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
• Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible as long as they can perform essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.