National council of certified Dementia Practitioners
Making a positive difference in dementia is our priority.
For over 20 years, we’ve empowered those who work in the eldercare community with knowledge, compassion, and empathy, striving to make a positive difference in dementia care.
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Explore Our Certifications
The certifications offered by NCCDP are open to many different individuals -ranging from home healthcare to first responders and more.
Get Certified
In addition to CADDCT™ , NCCDP offers other certifications. They include Certified Dementia Practitioner® , Certified Dementia Care Manager®, Certified First Responder Dementia Trainer®, and more.
Seminars
NCCDP and trainers provide seminars in Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care throughout the United States, NCCDP also provides online continuing education opportunities for its members.
Instructors
Become a Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Trainer™! Train others and prepare the front-line staff and health care professionals to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner(CDP).
About US
NCCDP History
The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, LLC was formed in 2003 by Lynn Biot Gordon and Sandra Stimson with varying work and personal experiences in the field of dementia care.
These professionals ultimately created NCCDP to promote standards of excellence in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease education to health care professionals, front line staff, caregivers and more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to Your Certification Questions
Click through the drop-down list to find the details you need about training, requirements, costs, and the steps to certification.
What is a recognized dementia care certification?
A recognized dementia care certification is a professional credential confirming completion of formal dementia training and adherence to care standards. It includes approved education, knowledge of person-centered care, and relevant experience, with credentials like the Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), showing a commitment to quality care.
How long does it typically take to complete dementia certification training?
At the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP), our dementia certification training can be completed in one day through a 6–8 hour seminar. This structured format is designed to deliver comprehensive and practical knowledge in an efficient and accessible timeframe.
What are the requirements to become a certified dementia practitioner?
To become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), you must complete an approved Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care seminar, have relevant experience in healthcare, caregiving, or a related field, and submit an application with the required fee. These requirements ensure a strong foundation in person-centered dementia care and professional competency.
How much does it cost to become a certified dementia practitioner?
The cost to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) typically includes an application fee and a required training seminar. The application fee is $185, while seminar costs may vary depending on the provider and format, often ranging from about $200 or more. Group or association discounts may reduce the fee, so total costs can vary based on how the training is taken.
What does a certified dementia practitioner do?
A Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) provides person-centered care to individuals living with dementia, focusing on communication, behavior support, safety, and daily care needs. The role involves applying trained strategies to improve quality of life, reduce distress, and support both the individual and their family or care team.
How to become a professional in dementia care?
To become a professional in dementia care, start by gaining experience in healthcare, caregiving, or senior services, then complete formal dementia training through an approved program.
Earning a certification like the Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) helps build specialized knowledge in person-centered care and it will also strengthen professional credentials.
What are the costs and packages for certified dementia practitioner certification courses?
CDP certification involves two separate costs: the required Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care (ADDC) seminar, which typically runs $195–$210, and the certification application fee of $185.
Discounted application rates are available: $85 for applicants with an Association Discount Form received at a conference seminar, and $68 per person for corporate group applications of 10 or more.
Seminar pricing may also vary depending on format and provider.
Is NCCDP an accredited program for dementia practitioners?
Yes, NCCDP is recognized. It’s an accredited provider of continuing education (CEUs) through various accrediting bodies, and its programs are nationally recognized in dementia care education and certification.
Its certifications, such as the Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), are widely accepted across healthcare and senior care settings and are considered a standard of professional competency.
How to become a certified Alzheimer's and dementia care trainer?
To become a Certified Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Trainer (CADDCT), you must hold a qualifying professional background, complete the required dementia care training, and attend the trainer certification course. You’ll also need to demonstrate the ability to teach the Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care seminar and submit an application with the required fee.