How to Become a Skilled Floortime Therapist

Becoming a Floortime Therapist

If you are interested in becoming a Floortime therapist, there are specific requirements and qualifications you need to meet. Additionally, completing the necessary training and certification is crucial to develop the skills needed for this role.

Requirements and Qualifications

To become a Floortime therapist, it is typically required to have a background in child development. According to StanleyGreenspan.com, individuals must have at least two years of experience working in child development, which can include working at a school, clinic, or hospital with children facing developmental challenges. It's important to note that self-employed individuals can only apply if they are licensed professionals.

In addition to the experience in child development, a detailed knowledge of the 6 basic and 3 advanced developmental milestones is essential. These milestones form the foundation of the DIR/Floortime approach. Having a solid understanding of these milestones allows therapists to effectively assess and support a child's development during Floortime therapy sessions.

Training and Certification

Training and certification are crucial steps in becoming a skilled Floortime therapist. The specific requirements for training and certification may vary depending on the organization or program you choose to pursue. However, there are some general guidelines to consider.

Applicants must attend a 1-2 day introductory course conducted by Jake Greenspan and Tim Bleecker within the last two years, or pass the Mastery Test for Dr. Greenspan's Online Professional Course. This introductory course provides a comprehensive overview of the DIR/Floortime approach and equips therapists with the foundational knowledge needed to implement Floortime techniques effectively.

To complete the certification process, candidates are typically required to submit an up-to-date CV/Resume that includes all professional certifications and training. This allows the certifying organization to assess the applicant's qualifications and experience.

It's important to note that different organizations or programs may have their own specific training and certification processes. Therefore, it is recommended to research and select a reputable organization or program that aligns with your career goals and aspirations as a Floortime therapist.

By meeting the requirements and obtaining the necessary training and certification, you can embark on a rewarding journey as a skilled Floortime therapist. This role allows you to make a significant impact on the lives of children with developmental challenges and support their overall growth and development.

Understanding Floortime Therapy

Floortime therapy is an approach that aims to support children with autism in their development and social-emotional growth. Developed by Dr. Stanley Greenspan in the 1980s, the DIR/Floortime approach has been proven to progress a child’s skills across areas of communication, emotional functioning, daily living skills, and parent-child interactions.

The DIR/Floortime Approach

The DIR/Floortime model is considered child-led, where therapists, parents, and caregivers follow the child’s lead to promote a sense of empowerment and encourage active participation in therapy. The therapy emphasizes the child's individuality and uniqueness, aiming to help them reach their full potential.

During Floortime sessions, therapists engage with the child on the floor, meeting them at their developmental level. By joining the child in their preferred activities and interests, therapists build a strong connection and create opportunities for interaction and communication. This child-centered approach fosters a sense of security, trust, and engagement, which are crucial for facilitating the child's development.

Floortime encourages children with autism to expand their "circles of communication" by meeting them at their developmental level and building on their strengths. By focusing on the child's individual differences and strengths, the therapy aims to develop their unique potential and enhance overall functioning.

Effectiveness of Floortime

Research has shown that the DIR/Floortime approach can be effective in improving developmental skills in children with autism. By addressing the child's social-emotional needs, Floortime can enhance their communication, emotional regulation, and social interactions.

It's important to note that while Floortime and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) have both been shown to be effective in improving developmental skills in children with autism, their philosophies, methods, and goals differ [2]. When choosing between these approaches, parents should consider their child's individual needs, learning style, and their own preferences in teaching methods. Consulting with professionals experienced in both approaches can help guide decision-making.

In conclusion, Floortime therapy offers a child-centered approach that promotes the development of communication, emotional regulation, and social skills in children with autism. By focusing on the child's strengths and individuality, Floortime aims to help children with autism reach their full potential and expand their circles of communication.

The Role of a Floortime Therapist

As a floortime therapist, your role is to facilitate meaningful interactions and promote the healthy development of children with autism. This section will explore two key aspects of the floortime therapist's role: therapist-child interactions and parent and caregiver training.

Therapist-Child Interactions

During floortime therapy sessions, you, as a therapist, engage in interactive play with the child, meeting them at their developmental level. These sessions typically range from two to five hours a day and take place in a calm environment, either at home or in a professional setting. The goal is to build a strong rapport with the child and create a safe and engaging space for them to explore and express themselves.

Through a process called "opening and closing circles of communication," which is central to the Floortime approach, you teach parents and caregivers how to direct their children towards more complex interactions. This approach emphasizes emotional development over speech, motor, or cognitive skills in isolation. By focusing on the child's emotional engagement, you can help them develop a solid foundation for further learning and growth.

During therapist-child interactions, you encourage the child to take the lead in play and follow their interests. By joining their world and participating in their preferred activities, you establish a connection and encourage reciprocal communication. This back-and-forth interaction helps to foster shared attention, engagement, problem-solving skills, and abstract, logical thinking.

Parent and Caregiver Training

In addition to therapist-child interactions, a significant part of your role as a floortime therapist involves training and supporting parents and caregivers. You teach them how to implement floortime techniques and strategies in their daily interactions with their child.

Parent and caregiver training is crucial for the success of floortime therapy, as it extends the therapeutic process beyond the therapy sessions. By providing guidance and support, you empower parents and caregivers to become active participants in their child's development.

During training sessions, you teach parents and caregivers how to create a rich and engaging environment for their child. You assist them in understanding their child's unique strengths, interests, and challenges. By focusing on the child's individual needs, you help parents and caregivers tailor their interactions to promote optimal growth and learning.

Through training, parents and caregivers learn how to observe and respond to their child's cues and communication attempts. They gain insight into the child's emotional world and develop strategies to support their emotional development. By equipping parents and caregivers with the tools and knowledge they need, you foster an ongoing therapeutic relationship that extends beyond the therapy sessions.

By actively engaging in therapist-child interactions and providing parent and caregiver training, you play a vital role in promoting the development and well-being of children with autism. Your expertise and guidance help create a supportive environment where children can expand their "circles of communication" and reach their full potential.

Enrolling in Floortime Courses

To become a skilled Floortime therapist, enrolling in Floortime courses is a crucial step in gaining the necessary knowledge and skills. These courses provide comprehensive training and education on the DIR/Floortime approach and equip individuals with the tools needed to effectively implement this therapy with children on the autism spectrum.

Course Options and Structure

The DIRFloortime Training Program, offered by the Interdisciplinary Council on Development and Learning (ICDL), provides a range of courses for professionals, paraprofessionals, and parents who wish to become proficient in Floortime therapy [4]. The program offers various levels of courses to cater to different individuals' needs and qualifications.

Professionals have the opportunity to progress through the professional certificate courses, starting from DIR 201 to DIR 204, to become certified DIRFloortime practitioners. These courses delve into advanced concepts and techniques to enhance therapists' expertise in working with children using the DIR/Floortime approach.

Paraprofessionals and professionals also have the option to earn a certificate as a DIRFloortime Assistant (DFA). The DFA program provides training for individuals who work alongside certified practitioners to support the implementation of Floortime therapy.

Parents can actively participate in courses such as DIR 101, DIR 201, and DIR 202. These courses empower parents to understand and implement Floortime techniques with their children, fostering meaningful interactions and promoting their child's development.

The courses offered by ICDL are primarily conducted online, making them accessible to participants globally. Some onsite courses may be available in specific locations. It's important for participants to take advantage of any promotions (promo codes) during registration, as refunds for promotions not entered during registration are not issued.

Continuing Education Opportunities

In addition to the certificate courses, the DIRFloortime Training Program also offers continuing education courses for professionals. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including DIR mentoring, using the Functional Emotional Assessment Scale (FEAS) for assessment, treating fears and phobias in young children, trauma and the DIRFloortime approach, and more. Led by expert trainers in the field, these continuing education courses provide professionals with opportunities to expand their knowledge base and refine their skills.

Participation in these courses may also earn professionals continuing education credits for various professions, including Speech and Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Counselors, Social Workers, Teachers, Music Therapists, Physical Therapists, and Early Intervention Specialists. Upon completion of the courses, participants receive a Certificate of Attendance documenting their hours of participation and available professional continuing education credits.

Continuing education opportunities allow Floortime therapists to stay updated with the latest research, techniques, and advancements in the field, ensuring that they continue to provide the highest quality of care to the children they work with.

Enrolling in Floortime courses provides the foundation for becoming a skilled Floortime therapist. These courses offer comprehensive training and continuing education opportunities, allowing individuals to develop the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement Floortime therapy in their practice.

Advancing in Floortime Therapy

For individuals interested in pursuing further education and professional development in Floortime therapy, there are opportunities to advance through specialized certificate programs. These programs provide in-depth training and certification, allowing therapists to enhance their skills and expertise in implementing the DIR/Floortime approach.

Professional Certificate Program

The Professional Certificate Program offered by the Interdisciplinary Council on Development and Learning (ICDL) is designed for professionals seeking to become certified DIRFloortime® practitioners. This program consists of a series of courses, including DIR 201 to DIR 204, that delve into various aspects of the DIR/Floortime approach. These courses cover topics such as assessment, intervention strategies, and working with families. By completing the courses and meeting the requirements set by ICDL, professionals can earn their certification as a DIRFloortime® practitioner.

DIRFloortime Assistant Certificate

The DIRFloortime Assistant (DFA) certificate is available for both paraprofessionals and professionals who want to enhance their skills as a Floortime therapist. This certificate program, also offered by ICDL, provides comprehensive training in the DIR/Floortime approach and equips individuals with the necessary tools to effectively support children with autism spectrum disorders. The DFA certificate program includes courses that cover key concepts, strategies, and techniques in Floortime therapy. By completing the required courses and fulfilling the program's requirements, participants can obtain their certificate as a DIRFloortime® Assistant.

To support ongoing professional development, ICDL also offers a range of continuing education courses for certified practitioners, assistants, and professionals in the field. These courses cover diverse topics, such as using the Functional Emotional Assessment Scale (FEAS) for assessment, treating fears and phobias in young children, trauma and the DIRFloortime® approach, and more. Led by expert trainers, these courses provide opportunities for therapists to deepen their knowledge and refine their skills.

Participants in the certificate and continuing education programs offered by ICDL can earn professional continuing education credits for various professions, including Speech and Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Counselors, Social Workers, Teachers, Music Therapists, Physical Therapists, and Early Intervention Specialists. Upon completion of the courses, participants receive a Certificate of Attendance that documents their hours of participation and available professional continuing education credits.

Enrollment in these programs is primarily conducted online, making them accessible to participants globally. However, there are also some onsite courses available in specific locations. Individuals interested in advancing their Floortime therapy skills should take advantage of any available promotions (promo codes) at the time of registration, as refunds for promotions not entered during registration are not issued.

Implementing Floortime Techniques

When it comes to implementing Floortime techniques as a therapist, there are specific strategies that can help ensure effective sessions and maximize the benefits for children with autism.

Strategies for Effective Sessions

Floortime therapy sessions, as described by Autism Speaks, typically range from two to five hours a day. These sessions involve training for parents and caregivers, along with interaction with the child. The focus of the sessions is on back-and-forth play, aiming to build shared attention, engagement, and problem-solving skills.

To create an effective Floortime session, therapists employ several strategies:

Meeting the child at their developmental level: Floortime emphasizes meeting the child where they are and building on their strengths. By understanding the child's unique developmental profile, therapists can tailor the activities and interactions to their specific needs.
Engaging in emotional interactions: Floortime prioritizes emotional development over speech, motor, or cognitive skills in isolation. Therapists use emotional interactions to foster engagement, connection, and communication with the child. This approach helps them develop a strong foundation for further learning and growth.
Opening and closing circles of communication: Therapists teach parents and caregivers how to guide their children into more complex interactions. This process involves "opening and closing circles of communication," which is central to the Floortime approach. By expanding the child's circles of communication, therapists help them develop and strengthen their social and emotional skills.
Encouraging problem-solving skills: Floortime sessions provide opportunities for the child to engage in problem-solving activities. Therapists create situations where the child needs to think, make decisions, and find solutions. This helps promote abstract and logical thinking, as well as the development of problem-solving skills.

Benefits for Children with Autism

Floortime therapy aims to help children with autism reach their full potential by focusing on their individual development rather than solely on their diagnosis. By meeting the child at their developmental level and building on their strengths, Floortime expands their "circles of communication". This approach has shown significant benefits for children with autism, including:

Improved emotional development: In a study conducted in 2007, independent researchers found that Floortime therapy significantly improved emotional development in children with autism. The therapy helps children develop a deeper understanding and expression of emotions, leading to better emotional regulation and social connections.
Reduced core symptoms of autism: The same study also found that Floortime therapy reduced core symptoms of autism. By focusing on emotional engagement and interaction, rather than solely on specific behaviors, Floortime supports the overall development of children with autism.

By implementing Floortime techniques and strategies, therapists can create a supportive and engaging environment for children with autism. Through back-and-forth play, emotional interactions, and problem-solving activities, Floortime therapy helps children expand their communication skills, enhance emotional development, and unlock their full potential.