The competencies for the certificate and overall procedures remain the same. Forms have been renumbered, but remain the same otherwise. Material has been reorganized and instructions revised to facilitate both the assembly and the review of the portfolio. Finally, the original sample packet of completed forms has been removed and new examples provided.
To download the packet, go to the application page.
What Is The Interdisciplinary Certificate in Autism?
The Interdisciplinary Certificate in Autism (ICA) is a special recognition awarded by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to professionals who have voluntarily advanced their expertise in the area of autism through education and professional experiences. Professionals from the following disciplines may be eligible for the ICA:
- Art Therapy
- Audiology
- Behavior Management
- Education
- Mental Health
- Music Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Speech-Language Pathology
Certificate holders complete various continuing education activities which, combined with successful experience working with individuals with autism, will lead to the acquisition of competencies that embody a significant breadth and depth of knowledge about autism.
Benefits of possessing the ICA include consumer confidence, program prestige, and professional standing. Possession of the certificate can signal that the professional is well qualified and can offer competent, high-quality services to individuals with autism.
Colleagues can also tap ICA certificate holders for their recognized expertise in autism. Additionally, certificate holders will possess a visible credential representing their efforts to advance their knowledge, skills, and professional competence.
Applicants for the ICA must fulfill the following criteria:
- A minimum of five years of experience in their professional discipline.
- At least three years of experience working with students/clients having autism.
- Provision of services to multiple students/ clients having autism.
- Completion of at least 100 clock hours of learning activities in autism.(1)
- Engagement in leadership activity in the area of autism.(2)
- Successful functioning as a member of an Interdisciplinary Team on behalf of students/ clients having autism.
(1) Learning activities can include university courses, professional workshops/conferences/seminars, independent study, and consultation with specialists. The learning activities must be continuous and current within the last 10 years.
(2) Leadership activities can include delivering professional presentations, teaching university courses, conducting research, producing publications, and supervising others working with individuals having autism.
Applicants for the ICA must verify the professional experience, education, and leadership that satisfy the competencies represented by the certificate. |
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