Profectum's Certificate Training in the DIR® Model

Join Profectum’s exceptional network of multidisciplinary DIR® trained professionals, working together to make a difference in developmental care.
Profectum's Developmental, Individual Difference, Relationship-based (DIR®) model certificate courses offer in-depth training in an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to working with individuals and families that have developmental care needs.

Featuring case-based learning, mentoring and individualized instruction, and nuanced, outcomes-driven principles and techniques, Profectum's certificate programs offer unparalleled opportunities.

Achieving certification in DIR® will enhance your practice/classroom, improve your outcomes, and give you new opportunities to grow and develop as a professional.

Profectum DIR® Paraprofessional Certificate Course

Profectum's DIR Paraprofessional Certificate course provides the necessary skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact for children and families, equipping participants with the understanding and skills to implement DIR strategies to create a supportive, nurturing environment for children’s growth and development.
Starts October 9, 2026
12 - 1:30 pm eastern
Ends January 8, 2027
[ Learn more ]

Profectum DIR® Foundations Certificate Program

Formerly known as DIR Certificate Level 1

Profectum's DIR Foundations Certificate program is the most comprehensive, dynamic, and supportive pathway for licensed professionals to become DIR-certified practitioners. The program guides participants through a progressive learning experience designed to deepen understanding of the DIR model. 

Introduction to the DIR Model

Aug 11, 18, 25 & Sep 1, 2026
7 - 9 pm eastern
Mary Ann O'Connell, PhD, CCC-SLP
October 11 & 18, 2026
1-5 pm eastern time
Michele Ricamato, MA, CCC-SLP

Foundations of DIR Theory

Starts July 15, 2026
7-9 pm eastern time
Ends October 21, 20226
Deborah Sussman, PhD, OT/L
Starts September 14, 2026
8-10 pm eastern time
Ends January 4, 2027
Rosemary White, OTR/L

Foundations of DIR Practice

Starts November 4, 2026
7-9 pm eastern time
Ends March 3, 2027
Sherri Cawn, MA, CCC-SLP
Starts January 20, 2027
8-10 pm eastern time
Ends May 19, 2027
Caroline Ferguson-Walsh, MS-LP(C), CCC-SLP

Profectum DIR® Advanced Certificate Course

Formerly known as DIR Certificate Level 2

Profectum's DIR Advanced Certificate course builds on knowledge and skills acquired in the DIR Foundations Certificate Program and encourages participants to deepen their ability to conceptualize treatment plans within the framework of the DIR model.
Starts October 19, 2026
7 - 9 pm eastern
Ends June 21, 2027
Linda Cervenka, MA, CCC-SLP
[ Learn more ]
Starts October 19, 2026
7-9 pm eastern time
Ends June 21, 2027
Michele Ricamato, MA, CCC-SLP
[ Learn more ]

Profectum DIR® Leadership Certificate Course

Formerly known as DIR Trainer Certificate

Profectum’s DIR Leadership Certificate course provides participants with skills and practicum experiences needed to train other DIR® professionals within Profectum’s programs.

Profectum International DIR® Certificate Courses

DIR Certificate Level 1

DIR Certificate Level 2