Our Team
Hi, I’m Dr. Crystal…
I have been a practicing Chiropractor for 13+ years, specializing in Women’s Health, Perinatal Care, Pediatrics, & adult wellness care. For the last 4 years, I have been co-creating the ORAL-LAC Method & technique with my good friend & colleague, Jennifer Whitt, RN, IBCLC, to help more effectively with infant latching issues (bottle, breast, & paci). Together, we have created a protocol assessing the oral cavity, oral reflexes, the infant cranial-sacral mechanism, & the infant’s spinal restrictions to release tension, improve latch, & improve overall digestive wellness. By working in unison, we are able to achieve a greater understanding of the infant’s challenges & develop a treatment with more substantial outcomes.
My Approach
“Whether it’s working on non-pregnant women, pregnancy, or pediatrics, I have always preferred to give my patients Time. As someone who has experienced the impersonal & often apathetic approach to production model healthcare systems, I took those experiences & shaped them into a model of care in our office that allows for the time to get to know our patients & their families, to listen to their needs for care, & to deliver care that isn’t rushed, care that includes a systemic approach to easing their stress & physical challenges”.
Hi, I’m Jennifer…
My oldest is the reason why I became an IBCLC in 2014. When she was born I had very few resources for breastfeeding support. She was premature, very irritable, and had horrible reflux. It was a chore to feed her by 6 weeks of age and she would scream during feeds whether she nursed or bottle fed. She still to this day has oral aversions and I want to try to support families who may be experiencing difficulties by hopefully finding what works for them.
I started working as an RN in Rochester, NY in the NICU in 2008. This is where I was introduced to lactation support and found my passion for working with families and their new babies.
In 2011, I moved back to my hometown of Elmira, NY, and worked first as a bedside nurse in the NICU before becoming interim manager. I quickly realized that I missed working with families. I left the management position to work for a small private midwife office to practice as an IBCLC while I started my journey of creating my own private practice. I am very family oriented, have nursed my 3 beautiful children, and have a wonderful supportive husband who is a huge encouragement to my breastfeeding journey as well as my private practice.
My Approach
“When meeting families for the first time, I try to learn what your daily needs are as well as your goals and expectations to make a plan that works for you. I enjoy seeing the improvements in your journey and working with you from before delivery until you wean”.
Did you know that lactation consultants can also help with the latch onto a bottle or pacifier nipple and not just at the breast/chest?