Hello!
Here’s a little about me, my story, and my qualifications, so you know who will be showing up at your front door.
My parents named me Linda Joy and those who know me will say my name matches my personality! Through the years, experiences have challenged my outlook many times. I remain convinced that joy is meant to be part of our daily life, especially our family life. This part of my identity and philosophy is why my private practice is called InJoyLC (The LC is for Lactation Consultant and Mom Life Coach).
It is my privilege to come alongside you at such a special, but also potentially stressful time.
My Service Model
As a new mother, I was so thankful to have in-home support for the first six weeks with the New Zealand Midwife and Plunket Nurse system. This is the same model I have developed my lactation services on. Early and often works well for establishing your milk supply and it also works well to provide support to new parents as they adjust to life with a new baby.
I want you to have access to a caring, expert support system in your own home as you begin your parenting journey. I believe it is important to be informed but also realistic about the early challenges of parenting. Education and support go hand in hand as I help you become an expert on your own baby and breastfeeding journey. I have developed a step by step model from pregnancy to weaning. It starts with the Breastfeeding with Confidence course, individual prenatal consultation and then proactive regular connection through the 4th trimester and beyond.
My Qualifications and Experience
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (2021) and Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (2017) with personal experience breastfeeding my four children through a variety of challenges for about six years.
Qualified as Registered Nurse in New Zealand 1991, including two years experience working in NICU. (Not Licensed in California)
Parent Education Director and current volunteer educator at Riverside Life Services since 2017, working with expectant and new parents.
Volunteer on Riverside County’s 24 hour Breastfeeding Help Line (2019 - 2021)
Birth Doula Diploma with Distinction (2024)
Member of Inland Empire Breastfeeding Coalition and International Lactation Consultant Association
Experience as a CPR Instructor, Preschool Music Teacher, and Family Ministry Director at our local church.
Mentor and teacher to moms for 20+ years through parenting classes and mom to mom groups.
Homeschool consultant and workshop provider for 10+ years.
Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultants are confirmed by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.
Check here to confirm my IBCLC credential by entering my name, Linda Gage.
My Family
I was born in New Zealand and am married to Jeff. We are both registered nurses and have worked with families in different capacities over the years. We have been blessed with four adult children who are spread across four countries, with two daughters-in-law and a sweet grandbaby added to our family. We raised our kids in New Zealand, Missouri and California; homeschooling them from 2000- 2018.
Since graduating my 4 kids from homeschooling, I have returned to my other great love of supporting new parents.