Meet the BPC: Dezzy Mojica

Why did you become a peer counselor? 

As a new mom apply for the WIC program, I decided to apply for the role of a peer counselor. I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to gain more knowledge about breastfeeding and connect with like-minded individuals. 

How do you foster a comfortable environment for your patients?  

By relating to a patient and showing empathy. I try to understand their perspective by listening to them and reflecting. I enjoy praising and celebrating my patients. Especially when they are busy and still attend our appointments. I often reaffirm and reflect with them. Really, curating a safe space involves me listening to them. 

Are there any memorable patient experiences that reaffirmed your passion for peer counseling?   

There are so many good memories with patients. I often think about myself because of the lack of experience I had with my first child. I found out I was pregnant and did not get any help. The support I provide for moms is everything I did not get. Mom tells me that no one’s ever given them support or words of encouragement. That makes me feel like I was here to reaffirm that person. There are A LOT of memorable patients. 

What changes would you like to see in healthcare?  

I would like to see more breastfeeding programs. I hope that hospitals will continue to see the value in having a breastfeeding peer counselor in the hospital. We need to prioritize identifying people with good character to become educators and peer counselors. 

What keeps you excited about your job on a day-to-day basis?   

Two words, gratitude and appreciation. Every day my job is to praise that person regardless if they are feeding their infant formula or breastmilk. 

Why?   

I’ve been doing this for 23 years thanks to the heart I have for people and human nature. There’s so many people in this world who are not being heard. I am not just a peer counselor but I’m someone to listen to these moms. For me, it is always about the person at the other end. I know that I can help by providing support and connection. It is an honor to help someone. I become passionate about everyone that I work with. I give my all to all my patients.