CaringKind CST Program Specialist Training & Certification

Advancing Early-Stage Care with Evidence-Based Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

CaringKind is a national leader in delivering Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)—a globally recognized, evidence‑based intervention that improves cognition, quality of life, mood, and communication for people living with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia.

Developed more than 20 years ago by Aimee Spector, PhD at University College London, CST is now implemented in over 38 countries. CaringKind’s CST Training and Certification Program, approved by Dr. Spector, equips professionals across the U.S. with the skills, tools, and support needed to deliver CST with excellence, fidelity, and sustainability.

Our goal is simple: scale CST nationwide through an affordable, high‑quality, and collaborative model—so more individuals and families can benefit.

To apply for CST Program Specialist Training complete our CST Training Online Application

What Is Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST)?

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy is a structured, small group‑based intervention designed for individuals with mild to moderate dementia. Research consistently shows CST leads to:

• Improved cognitive function
• Enhanced quality of life
• Reduced depressive symptoms
• Improvements in language, confidence, mood, and concentration

Participants describe CST groups as supportive, engaging, and empowering—creating a positive, non‑threatening environment for meaningful connection and growth.  Hear what our participants are saying about CST!  (video from DEC Plenary)

CaringKind Certified CST Program Specialist Training

The CaringKind Certified CST Program Specialist training prepares professionals to confidently facilitate CST groups and implement sustainable CST programs within their organizations and communities.

Training Format

Training is offered virtually, in person, or in a blended format, through CaringKind’s New York City office.

• 12 hours of live training, delivered in 2–3 hour sessions over 2–3 weeks
• 2–4 hours of homework between sessions
• Combination of instruction, video review, practice, shadowing, and assessment
• Group rates and on‑site organizational trainings available

Training Curriculum Highlights

Participants receive in‑depth instruction on:

• CST foundations, development, and research
• Understanding dementia and cognitive function
• CST key principles and group facilitation methods
• CST session structure, themes, and fidelity standards
• Session‑by‑session guidance for activities
• Program implementation, evaluation, and sustainability

Certification Requirements

Certification as a CaringKind Certified CST Program Specialist is awarded upon successful completion of the following:

• Completion of CST training modules
• Passing score (85%) on written knowledge exam
• Observation of at least two live or recorded CST groups
• Demonstrated facilitation competency through a live or recorded CST group assessment
• Submission of fidelity checklists for initial CST groups
• Active participation in CST Program Specialist Network Learning Circles

All certification assessments emphasize quality, fidelity, and person‑centered practice.

Eligibility Requirements:

CST can be delivered by licensed clinicians and trained non‑clinical professionals with experience supporting individuals with dementia who meet one of the following criteria:

Licensed or Master’s‑level professionals

• Occupational therapists, speech‑language pathologists, creative arts therapists, psychologists, educators, and related professionals
• Minimum one year of dementia or aging‑services experience

Bachelor’s‑level professionals

• Degrees in healthcare, human services, education, gerontology, nursing, recreation, social work, or related fields
• 1–3 years of relevant experience

Combination of education and experience

• Associate degree or college coursework plus 3–5 years of dementia or aging‑services experience

All candidates should have experience facilitating small group programs and a strong commitment to high‑quality dementia care.

Training & Certification Fees 

Virtual Training

• $650 per person
• Group rate (6+ participants): $500 per person

What’s Included

• 2‑year CST Program Specialist certification
• 2‑year membership in the CST Program Specialist Network
• Access to coaching, resources, learning circles, and standardized CST materials

Additional Offerings

• CST Program Implementation Training & Coaching: $500 per organization (3 hours)
• In‑Person & Hybrid Training Options for organizations training multiple staff

Benefits of Certification

As a CaringKind Certified CST Program Specialist, you gain:

• A verified credential recognized nationwide
• Free membership in the CST Program Specialist Network for two years
• Confidential access to CaringKind’s CST activity library and materials
• Monthly Learning Circles for skill‑building, coaching, and peer support
• 1:1 coaching with CaringKind CST leadership during office hours
• Access to shared data, evaluation tools, and best practices
• Opportunities for collaboration, resource sharing, and program growth

CST Program Specialist Network

The CST Program Specialist Network is CaringKind’s national Learning Collaborative—bringing together certified professionals across disciplines and settings.

Network members receive:

• Standardized CST session plans and themed activities
• Peer learning and mentorship
• Case consultation, video review, and fidelity support
• Tools to align workflows, evaluation, and outcomes
• Opportunities to contribute to shared data demonstrating CST’s impact nationwide

Active participation may qualify members for fee waivers upon recertification.

Recertification

Certification is renewed every two years.

• Renewal fee: $100 biannually
• Fee waivers available for specialists contributing resources or data
• Participation requirements include ongoing CST delivery and learning circle attendance

Get Started

To schedule training or learn more:

Olivia Cohen                                                            
Director of Early‑Stage Services
✉️ ocohen@wearecaringkind.org
📞 646‑744‑2962

Stephani Shivers
Chief Innovation Officer
✉️ sshivers@wearecaringkind.org
📞 646‑744‑2952