Find Personalized Solutions for Your Feeding Challenges
Are you experiencing latch difficulties, low milk supply, or painful feedings? I can help.
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Hi! I'm Catherine Belonogoff, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) since 2016. I've supported hundreds of families – perhaps even some in your neighborhood in Montclair or Essex County! – to overcome tricky feeding challenges and discover what works best for them. And now, I am available on telehealth for people all over!
What makes my approach different? My journey has taken me across the globe, from Russia to Singapore, giving me a unique understanding of different feeding cultures. This means I can offer you truly personalized support that respects your family's background and values, without judgment.When you work with me, you can expect:
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Catherine is absolutely amazing! I truly didn't think I needed a lactation consultant at first as I had great production but after having some latching and other issues with my newborn, Catherine came highly recommended and I'm glad I saw her when I did! She completely transformed my breastfeeding experience with my baby where I now feel more confident and bonded to my baby.
Catherine even had other tips and information about newborns and postpartum that helped tie everything together and understand the full concept of the fourth trimester.
SHE IS A GODSEND! AMAZING ENERGY! AMAZING PERSON! Jennifer L.
Where I Work
I proudly serve families in Montclair and throughout Essex County, New Jersey, and offer telehealth services to support clients anywhere. I accept many insurance plans and can provide superbills for out-of-network benefits. Outside of work, I love traveling, spending time in the water, getting strong—I’m passionate about movement (you can find me at @Mother_Of_Invention_Strong on Instagram), and hunting down the best tacos and croissants Montclair has to offer! When I’m not supporting families, you’ll likely find me at live music shows—punk concerts are my favorite, and Twenty One Pilots holds a special place as one of my all-time favorite bands. IFYKYK.
Breastfeeding is HARD. I do not understand why as humans have been doing it for so long, BUT Catherine has definitely helped to make it easier for me! I scheduled an appointment with her after struggling to breastfeed my second child. I naively thought breastfeeding would be a breeze after doing it successfully for a year with my first child. WRONG. Every baby is different…. She is incredibly experienced and thorough. You will walk away from an appointment with a detailed plan of action to improve the breastfeeding experience! I 100% recommend her for any new or seasoned mothers embarking on their breastfeeding journey! Elisa F.
My Philosophy
I believe that feeding, while rewarding, can also be challenging. I want to help you navigate this journey with kindness, compassion, and evidence-based support. I stand for parents making the best choices for their families and their own mental, emotional, and physical health.I know that the healthcare system can be hard to navigate, and I commit to meeting today's families where they're at. By blending insights from research and best practices, I aim to make feeding and caring for an infant work for you in your own unique environment. I believe in the importance of equitable and respectful care. My ongoing education in cultural competency, LGBTQ+ affirming practices, and supporting neurodiverse families ensures that I can provide knowledgeable and sensitive care to every client. I stand firmly against misinformation and patronizing attitudes. Instead, I believe in the inherent strength of parents and caregivers. With the right support, you have the potential to feel better, stronger, and more confident. My goal is to empower you with knowledge about the science of lactation and infant feeding, so together we can make informed decisions that work best for you and your family.
I sought Catherine's help with some breastfeeding challenges, which turned out to be from an improperly healed tongue tie release. I was also in a great deal of pain as a result of how my baby was compensating to feed. I was frustrated and upset given the original providers gave us no aftercare instructions, and we found ourself in a situation that could have been avoided. With Catherine's knowledge, experience and true passion for helping her clients, we were able to get back on track. She is thoughtful, detailed and comprehensive in every interaction, from her pre-visit intake to the session itself and beyond. She recommended excellent providers with whom to collaborate, and perhaps most importantly, she made me feel - to know! - I wasn't a failure. I would recommend Catherine without hesitation to anyone looking for practical, proactive guidance and compassionate support during your breastfeeding journey. Thank you, Catherine! Liz B.
My Approach
A client recently came to me after struggling with a painful latch for weeks. By implementing a few simple techniques, we were able to relieve her pain and get her on the path to a successful feeding journey. I believe that every parent deserves that kind of support. When we work together, I'll start by listening carefully to your story. My goal is to conduct a thorough assessment, understand your unique needs, and develop a plan of action with you. I want to know what's important to you so you feel heard. Whether it is in the comfort of your own home, or via a virtual consultation, I am here to support you. Whether you're struggling with latch, milk supply, or painful feedings, I'm here to provide solutions and build your confidence every step of the way. My goal is to empower you to nourish your baby with joy and ease. I tailor my support to your unique needs, considering your cultural background, personal values, and family dynamics. My goal is to create a safe, judgment-free space where all families feel welcome and understood.
If you are struggling with breastfeeding (or even if you aren’t!) I would strongly recommend visiting Catherine. She is so knowledgeable and easy to work with and learn from. She makes difficult things seem, and become, achievable! Her tips are so useful and resulted in an easier breastfeeding journey for me. I felt relieved and confident leaving her office. Thank you!! Kelsey B.
Credentials & Education
- International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
- Bachelor of Arts, UC Berkeley
- Certificated Lactation Education Counselor (CLEC), UC San Diego Extension
- Tongue and Lip Tie Assessment and Care Strategies with ILCA and La Leche League
- Certified doula and childbirth educator with Childbirth International
- IBCLC MasterClass: Oral Habilitation of the Breastfeeding Dyad (tongue tie + oral anatomy and function)
Professional Organizations
- Member of the International Lactation Consultants Association
- La Leche League Leader with Garden State La Leche League in Montclair, New Jersey (retired)
- Baby Cafe Singapore (retired)
- Former staff IBCLC at the Maternity Wellness Center at Wombkeepers OBGYN in Montclair, NJ
