Claire Dixon
Pronouns:
She/her
Identities:
White
Heterosexual
Cisgender
Married
Mother
Able-bodied
First Gen Student
Credentials:
Certified Lactation Counselor (May 2021), M. Ed. Loyola Chicago (May 2016), Not something you get a certificate for… But my lactation journey lasted around 17 months with my first son, and I am 3 months in with my second son.
Degrees/Trainings:
Undergraduate degree in Interpersonal Communication, Bowling Green State University 2011
Masters in Education, Loyola University Chicago (May 2016)
What brought you to birthwork?
Becoming a mother changed my life in many different ways, one of which was my career path. After 12 years of working in higher education I realized that I could take my passion for education and apply it to my new world as a mother. I watched many friends struggle, receive bad advice, or seek support from unhealthy/inaccurate sources, and I had had enough! Completing my CLC training kept me busy during the pandemic and slowly but surely I changed my career path to meet this new passion. I am not sure of all of the places this work will take me, and I am very excited to see where the path unfolds.
What’s something about birthwork that you are particularly passionate about?
I am passionate about guilt and shame-free support. The world of parenting comes with so much judgment - people do not need it from me! I believe that through helping parents meet THEIR goals and support THEIR needs people will find the most success. Your path does not need to be the same as mine, what would the fun in that be? I want to know your goals and then work my hardest to help you meet them.
Relevant Personal Experiences?
I started this journey as a Live Light client myself! I was lucky to have doula support with my first birth and will be repeating that in a few short weeks. Early on in my lactation journey with my son I attended what felt like every group, followed countless instagram pages, met with several CLC’s, and read every blog. Eventually I found my own way and had a beautiful lactation journey for about 17 months. I hope to do the same again with baby #2 who will be here in May.
What are some of your outside hobbies/interests?
Taking endless walks and exploring new parks around Detroit.
Sailing at the Detroit Yacht Club and floating at the pool as much as possible!
Trying new restaurants around Detroit on a rare date night and ordering takeout from our favorites more frequently (Yum Village, Karl’s, Bangkok 96, Ima)
Working in my backyard garden and cooking up all the food we grow
Anything else you want (potential) clients to know about you?
I believe there is a time and a place for antidotes/stories, but I will always be transparent about providing evidence-based support. Sometimes the answer will be “there’s not great research on that topic…” or “I don’t know, but I will find out”. I care deeply about my clients having the best information possible, even if that means I need to find a referral or do some research. That said, if you want to know about my experiences with lactation all you have to do is ask!
