Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) Facilitator Training – Online Course

Empower lives, enrich minds, and enhance well-being by becoming a Certified CST Facilitator. This in-depth online training provides you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead engaging, evidence-based Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) sessions for people living with dementia. What is CST? CST is an evidence-based approach recommended by the NICE Guidelines and backed by research showing its effectiveness in improving cognition, communication, and quality of life for people living with mild to moderate dementia. Through structured, interactive group sessions, CST fosters social connection, confidence, and mental stimulation. What You’ll Learn: - The Foundations of CST - The principles and key themes of CST, including mental stimulation, reminiscence, and implicit learning - The Bookcase Analogy and how emotional memories remain intact despite cognitive decline - How to encourage engagement, communication, and confidence in group settings Practical CST Session Delivery - How to structure a CST Session, incorporating activities such as word games, creative tasks, physical games, and discussion-based exercises - How to facilitate meaningful conversations using prompts, sensory engagement, and reminiscence therapy - Techniques to adapt CST activities to suit different settings, including care homes, community groups, and one-to-one sessions Facilitator Skills & Best Practices - The importance of flexibility, person-centered care, and inclusive facilitation - Understanding communication changes in dementia, including how rhythm, music, and non-verbal cues can support conversation - How to use the MICE (Mood, Interest, Communication, Engagement) scale to evaluate session effectiveness CST in Dementia Care - The role of CST and The history and development of CST, including its integration into dementia care frameworks worldwide Also includes lifetime access to our growing library of CST resources.