The purpose of certification is, above all, to deepen one's knowledge and capacity in Positive Discipline and Adlerian theory and to strengthen individual expertise with the practice of teaching PD experimentally to different groups.

The certification process is flexible and very supportive. Everyone moves at their own pace. In fact, we encourage you to continue practicing and learning at each step until you feel that you have a solid understanding of the curriculum and facilitation process in your area of focus -- Teaching Parenting, PD in the Classroom, or both!

The organization provides a variety of resources including a mentoring program, professional development opportunities and a community that emphasizes collaboration and encouragement. Our goal is to support you on your Positive Discipline journey.

Step One – Prerequisite Training

To be able to enter our advanced training program and become a Positive Discipline Trainer Candidate (PDTC), you need to have taken EITHER the Teaching Parenting the Positive Discipline Way (TP) or the Positive Discipline in the Classroom (PDC) two day core workshop.

Step Two – Begin To Implement What You Have Learned 

Actively implement what you are learning in a classroom, at home, with a parenting group, in the workplace, or in other settings. The more you apply and experience the results of using Positive Discipline in your life and work, the more deeply you will understand and internalize it. Ultimately, this will make you a more effective PD Trainer.

Step Three - Declare Your Intent to Become a CPDT

Once you have taken either the TP or PDC workshop, you can send in your Letter of Intent, pay your annual membership fee to the Positive Discipline Association and make a commitment to practice and develop your skills and knowledge.


Step Four – Complete Implementation Requirements
As part of the certification process, it is required that you practice what you will be teaching.  In general, you are being asked to dig deeper into the use of Positive Discipline at home, at work, or in other settings.  It is hoped that you develop a strong working knowledge of both theory and practice. 

You can choose to proceed with certification in Teaching Parenting the Positive Discipline Way (TP), Positive Discipline in the Classroom (PDC) or both. There are specific requirements for each designed to ensure that you fully understand the curriculum, the facilitation process, and the values and key principles of Positive Discipline and Adlerian theory. Please read the appropriate sections very carefully as you prepare to proceed further. We suggest that you submit your evaluations and other material as each step is complete. Please feel free to contact the PDA office with any questions.

Step Five – Participate in Advanced Candidate Training (ACT)

Advanced Candidate Training functions similar to an intense retreat. It is designed to strengthen your facilitation skills, deepen your understanding of Adlerian and Positive Discipline theory and practice, and provide a wonderful opportunity for personal and professional growth. You will receive, and are expected to offer, extensive feedback and will participate in a process designed to build your capacity as a PD Trainer on every level.

LINKS:

Steps For Certification In Teaching Parenting (TP)

Steps For Certification In Positive Discipline In the Classroom (PDC)

Advanced Candidate Training (ACT)

Eligibility Standards For Attending ACT

Policy: Goals and Eligibility Criteria For Attending ACT

Benefits of Becoming a CPDT

Responsibilities of Being a CPDT

Membership Application and Letter of Intent to Become a Positive Discipline Trainer Candidate (PDTC)

Frequently Asked Questions About the Positive Discipline Certification Process

PDA Contact Information