Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator® CDSGF®
Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator (CDSGF) certification prepares health care professionals to lead effective dementia support groups in settings like assisted living, hospice, long-term care communities, home care agencies, CCRCs, adult day care, and independent living communities.
The CDSGF certification requires that you complete:
- The ADDC seminar
- The 3-hour online course “Revitalizing Your Support Group,” which includes a PowerPoint presentation, handouts, and a final evaluation.
Where do I start?
CDSGF® Certification Requirements
There are four steps to obtaining your Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator (CDSGF®) certification.
Step 1
Complete the Application
- Complete the online CDSGF application
- If you don’t have any other certifications with NCCDP, complete your application here.
- If you already have another certification with NCCDP, log in to your account and click “Apply for Another Certification.”
- Submit a $160 payment
- Wait for approval; you’ll receive an email once approved
Once approved, you’ll have 30 days to finish the remaining steps below.
Step 2
Attend the ADDC Seminar
- Register for the live, 8-hour Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care (ADDC) Seminar, in person or live online.
- Click here to find a seminar.
- Seminar pricing is set independently by each certified trainer.
Note: if you’ve already completed the ADDC Seminar, you don’t need to take it again.
Step 3
Complete the Support Group Course
- Complete the online PowerPoint presentation, “Revitalizing Your
Support Group“ - Download and review the accompanying handout
- Complete and pass the test
- There is no fee associated with this portion of the education component.
Step 4
Submit Verification
- Log in to your account page
- Enter your trainer’s name, CADDCT number, and ADDC seminar date in the Verification of Dementia Training fields, then click on the submit button.
- You’ll receive an email with a link to the evaluation form.
- Complete the evaluation; your certification will be emailed to you
Important: Please note that once your CDSGF application has been approved, you’ll have 30 days to review the PowerPoint presentation, take the online test, complete the ADDC seminar (online or in person), and submit your certificate of completion. If you don’t finish within 30 days, you’ll need to reapply for CDSGF certification.
Renewal Process
Renew Certification
Login to your account and if eligible to renew, a renewal button will be visible on your account page. The renewal button will show up 60 days prior to the expiration date.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to Your CDSGF® Credential Questions
Click through the drop-down list to find the details you need about training, requirements, costs, and the steps to certification.
Who should apply for CDSGF®?
CDSGF Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator certification is open to health care professionals and clergy who directly facilitate support groups in settings such as assisted living communities, home care agencies, hospice agencies, CCRC’s, adult day care, and long-term living communities.
What do I need to apply?
One full year of experience as a support group facilitator.
Renewal Requirements
Renewal is every two years. You will need to login and complete your renewal application, with payment.
What does CDSGF stand for?
CDSGF stands for Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator, a credential for individuals qualified to lead and manage dementia support groups. It focuses on guiding group discussions, providing emotional support, and helping participants and care professionals navigate the challenges of dementia.
What is the role of a support group facilitator?
A support group facilitator leads and manages group sessions, creating a safe, structured space for participants to share experiences and receive support.
The role includes guiding discussions, providing education, encouraging participation, and ensuring a respectful, supportive environment for individuals and care professionals.
What qualifications do I need to be a group facilitator?
To be a group facilitator, you typically need experience in caregiving, healthcare, counseling, or a related field, along with education in group facilitation and dementia care.
Certifications and structured education help build skills in communication, leadership, and creating a supportive, well-managed group environment.
How long does it take to become a facilitator?
Becoming a CDSGF typically takes a few weeks, depending on your schedule. After your application is approved, you’ll have 30 days to complete the ADDC Seminar, the ‘Revitalizing Your Support Group’ course, and your final evaluation.
