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Meet Cristi

Cristi Garfield, MS CCC-SLP, CLC

Owner, Certified Lactation Counselor, DC/MD Licensed and ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathologist, National Association of Neonatal Therapists (NANT) Member, Spanish proficient

Welcome to Pura Vida Lactation, LLC! I am Cristi Garfield, a dedicated speech-language pathologist and certified lactation counselor with over a decade of experience helping children from ages birth to 21.

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Originally from the Philadelphia suburbs (GO BIRDS!), I completed my Masters Degree from Loyola University of Maryland, and moved to the DMV, where I met my husband and started a beautiful family. I've worked in acute and subacute hospitals, outpatient clinics, early intervention, and school-based settings. However, my shift to private practice stemmed from the joy I developed in my current role as a NICU SLP helping mothers and families I've met, as well as assisting countless friends and acquaintances through phone calls and late-night texts. Even with my CLC certification, my own breastfeeding journey with my now four-year-old daughter and two-year-old son (still nursing!) opened my eyes to just how much support is needed.
 

When I'm not working in the NICU, I am building this new business (!), chasing after my toddlers, making slime & Play-Doh creations, swimming at our local YMCA, walking the dog, collecting cookbooks, and visiting extended family. Those who know me would describe me as a selfless, optimistic, & positive person who will check-in just to say "Hi," and be dependable during any time of need. I can't wait to be this person for you- I can't wait to meet you!

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CERTIFICATIONS & TRAININGS

  • Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC)

  • Infant-Driven Feeding System (IDF) trained

  • NANT member (2018-present)

  • Bilingual evaluation and treatment proficient for Spanish-speaking individuals

  • Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding-Advanced Special Topics trained

  • Beckman Oral-Motor Assessment and Intervention and Oro-Facial Deep Tissue Release

  • FEES and NOMS trained

  • Passy Muir Speaking Valve Certified

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