An ICE Accredited Assessment Based Certificate Program
The VitalStim Certificate Program was introduced to the professional dysphagia community in 2003 as the competency course for the only FDA-cleared NMES device for dysphagia treatment. The program, then known as the VitalStim Certification Program, revolutionized dysphagia therapy!

The popular course has gone through multiple revisions since its inception, incorporating the latest findings from the research and clinical communities. This new course update is the most significant to date. It is the result of several converging trends in the field of NMES for dysphagia treatment. The new content reflects significant growth of scientific research, an increase in available treatment protocols and an expansion of available equipment options.

VitalStim® Therapy and Beyond includes the online course, MBS: The Clear Picture (12hrs) and the two day hands-on "VitalStim® Therapy and Beyond: DINES Specialty Certificate Program" (16hrs) for a total of 28 hours of continuing education credit.

Course Pricing
$775 (Individual)
$350 (Renewal at Live Course - earn 16 hrs. of continuing education credit)

Disciplines

• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist

• MBS: The Clear Picture
• MBS Course Instructions
• VitalStim Therapy Specialty Program Policies

Receive your Specialty Certificate in VitalStim Therapy!

The VitalStim® Therapy Specialty Program includes the online course, MBS: The Clear Picture-Pediatric (12 hrs.) and the two day hands-on "VitalStim® Therapy Course" (16 hrs.) for a total of 28 hrs.

Course Pricing
$775
$350 (Renewal at Live Course - earn 16 hrs. of continuing education credit)

The VitalStim Therapy Course Manual will be issued at the live course.

Disciplines

• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist

• MBS: The Clear Picture - Pediatric
• MBS Course Instructions
• VitalStim Certification Policies
• VitalStim Auditor-Refresher Policies

This advanced, interactive course is designed for clinicians who have foundational knowledge and experience using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in dysphagia intervention and are ready to take their clinical practice to the next level. Participants will move beyond basic electrode placement to develop advanced clinical reasoning skills for integrating NMES into individualized, meaningful, and effective pediatric swallowing treatment. Through a dynamic combination of evidence review, swallowing physiology and kinesiology, instrumental assessment interpretation, parameter selection, hands-on application, videos, complex case studies and discussion, participants will learn to identify physiologic treatment targets and develop defensible, patient-specific intervention plans. Key components of successful pediatric NMES treatment-including electrical stimulation principles, electrode placement, muscle physiology, swallowing biomechanics, dynamic systems theory, and the complex interplay of sensory and motor systems-will be explored and applied throughout the course.

Disciplines

• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist

We work with individuals living in our communities or facilities who have a dysphagia diagnosis. Once their evaluation is done, the real work begins. We address recommendations for safe oral intake, diet, thickening liquids, mealtime strategies, feeding, and supervision. Residents are at risk if staff and family have not been educated on the correct methods of thickening. Staff and family often think the liquids are "thick enough", but these often test as "thin". Caregivers and staff must consistently follow through on swallow precautions, but they may not be clear on exactly what those are or why it's important to be consistent. Adaptive equipment may be necessary to control bite and/or sip size, as recommended. Mouthcare is an essential component of a resident's care. Good oral care can help minimize the risk of aspiration-related adverse reactions but may not be consistent. In addition, many of our residents have MIP or medication intake problems. Often, we're involved when there are concerns about swallowing medications, crushing, cutting, and safety. This information must be added to the resident's care plan. This course will address all of these issues, providing you with tools and resources for implementation.

Disciplines

• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

Dysphagia in Focus is a series of 4 practical courses designed to guide dysphagia therapists through the full continuum of care. From bedside evaluations to instrumental assessments, diet modifications and strategies, and individualized therapy planning. Each course may be taken independently for CEUs, allowing clinicians to focus on specific areas of interest or need.

• Dysphagia in Focus: The Instrumental Lens
• Dysphagia in Focus: Therapy Lens
• Dysphagia in Focus: Strategies and Recommendations Lens

Clients with dysphagia make up the majority  of SLPs' caseloads. There are specific steps SLPs should complete in preparation for the Clinical Bedside Evaluation.  This course will address the importance of chart review, diseases/disorders, medications as well as specific screens and assessments tools or combination of tools to evaluate muscle function, impairments and safety with textures and liquids, precautions need for instrumental assessment. In addition, documentation of results will be discussed.

Disciplines

• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

Dysphagia in Focus is a series of 4 practical courses designed to guide dysphagia therapists through the full continuum of care. From bedside evaluations to instrumental assessments, diet modifications and strategies, and individualized therapy planning. Each course may be taken independently for CEUs, allowing clinicians to focus on specific areas of interest or need.

• Dysphagia in Focus: Therapy Lens
• Dysphagia in Focus: The Bedside Lens
• Dysphagia in Focus: Strategies and Recommendations Lens

Instrumental assessments provide additional pieces to the dysphagia puzzle. Without this, SLPs don't have a complete picture of the anatomy, swallow dysfunction and impairment necessary to form a plan of care. Patients may be mismanaged by providing inappropriate modalities and exercises. Types of instrumental assessments will be reviewed, as well as radiation safety protocols during the study. Options will be reviewed for reporting results.

Disciplines

• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

Dysphagia in Focus is a series of 4 practical courses designed to guide dysphagia therapists through the full continuum of care. From bedside evaluations to instrumental assessments, diet modifications and strategies, and individualized therapy planning. Each course may be taken independently for CEUs, allowing clinicians to focus on specific areas of interest or need.

• Dysphagia in Focus: The Instrumental Lens
• Dysphagia in Focus: The Bedside Lens
• Dysphagia in Focus: Strategies and Recommendations Lens

The therapy plan of care is determined by all the pieces of the puzzle. It is critical that the goals developed by the SLP also meet the patient's goals. Any treatments and exercises used should align with the results of the bedside evaluation and any instrumental assessment. Often, it is a combination of swallowing and non-swallowing exercises with increased resistance levels. Devising a home exercise program for the patient to use in-between sessions is important for making gains. This course will address how to devise a therapy plan that the patient is willing to use, with exercises that correlate with the impairments and dysfunctions identified during the assessments.

Disciplines

• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

Literature over the last 2 decades has shown an obvious link between motor function and cognition. Emerging data suggest therapies designed to improve specific aspects of cognitive function, may also improve gait, increase use of compensatory strategies, and reduce fall risk. Falls and fall-related injuries are a huge concern and costly burden to individuals, society, and healthcare systems. Despite the costly and physical consequences of falls, common interventions and 'fall prevention programs' have been shown to be inadequate or ineffective. This evidence shines a new light on the SLPs ability to target functional safety goals through cognitive therapy to change the outcomes of patient safety. The evidence-based techniques reviewed in this course are applicable to patients with fall concerns who mobilize in any way and/or participate in ADLs, including patients with Dementia, Parkinson's Disease, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological diagnoses. This course focuses heavily on evidence-based cognitive therapy techniques to improve patient safety; along with education essentials for training of staff/family as a part of your plan of care. Discussion will include how to target these skills without duplicating services with PT/OT. Course material will cover goal writing for best practice standards and avoiding insurance denials. Specific patient examples and documentation from referral to discharge will be covered. Steps to initiate and/or increase the success of a current fall prevention program will be described. Barriers and challenges will also be reviewed.

Disciplines

• Physical Therapist
• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapy Asst
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

There are two ways to participate in this live stream event (BOTH count as LIVE Continuing Education!:):

1. in the LIVE STUDIO audience in Gulf Breeze, Florida - Studio audience seats are limited - so register today!
2. via LIVE STREAM around the world - Live stream participants will login to access the event from their computer and interact with the instructor.

Course time(s):
8:00 AM Central (9:00 AM Eastern; 7:00 AM Mountain; 6:00 AM Pacific)

t's out of the box, what's next? AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is a tool in our toolbox, but without effective implementation, it is like a hammer without a nail. This introductory course will go beyond opening the box and into strategies for effective treatment planning and implementation. We will learn prominent treatment approaches, scaffolding techniques and review resources for goal writing and selection. Participants will acquire clinical decision making skills to circumvent potential barriers within AAC.

Disciplines

• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

This course instruction assumes a prior knowledge of dysphagia and anatomy/physiology of the head and neck. For an excellent review of the normal and abnormal swallow, we recommend bundling the ecourse "Anatomy of Swallowing". Please note that VitalStim Providers and past attendees of John Kelly's Myofascial Release and Other Manual Techniques in Dysphagia Management course may have already completed Anatomy of Swallowing (not sure, just ask CIAO).  We are offering the ecourse at a $20 discount when added as a bundle during registration (price reflects discount).

Elastic taping techniques have gained the attention of rehab providers offering support while allowing functional movement. This research-based modality has a variety of applications to address functional impairment. This course will focus on taping strategies relevant to dysphagia therapy. Therapeutic applications provide re-education of the neuromuscular system, influence lymphatic drainage, improve localized circulation and reduce pain. Diagnoses familiar to the dysphagia specialist benefit from its use. Taping strategies offer muscular inhibition as in craniomandibular hypertonus, muscular recruitment facilitating hyoid movement and minimize postural compensation related to sensory input. This course will educate the dysphagia clinician on the therapeutic benefit of taping to improve motor patterns and facilitate a client's functional independence. Though focused on the adult population, experienced pediatric clinicians can easily apply these techniques to the pediatric population.

Disciplines

• Physical Therapist
• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapy Asst
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

Speech pathologists and Occupational Therapists recommend appropriate diet and liquids following bedside, MBSs or FEES assessments. The consistency in communication to nursing and dietary is critical for patient safety and success. In 2002, The National Dysphagia Diet (NDD) standardize diets, and has been used to identify diet level difficulties, safety, and recommendations. However, variances with terminology and definitions to describe texture-modified foods and thickened liquids in all care settings and cultures became problematic. To address these concerns, in 2013, the IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative) set out to create a consistent global standardization. As of 2021, the IDDSI is the only professionally recognized and supported diet framework for SLPs, OTs, Physicians, Nursing and Dietary Staff. Yet, some facilities continue to utilize the outdated NDD or have their own criteria for diet levels which do not match IDDSI, potentially opening the door to dysphagia litigation. It's essential to test both foods and liquids to be sure the patient receives the correct diet and liquid consistency.

Disciplines

• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

This course examines the impact of trauma and chronic stress on brain development and function, the power of neuroplasticity and the value of utilizing body-based interventions in speech language pathology. One in three people are affected by a neurological condition worldwide. This issue is so prevalent that the World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the criticality of focusing on rehabilitation, habilitation and health of the brain. Speech language pathologists are uniquely positioned to ensure the brain is understood, valued and protected at all ages, from early childhood to geriatric care. However, SLPs are not always equipped with the most current and efficacious treatment approaches. The instructor will present the most current interdisciplinary research as it applies to the field of speech language pathology, highlighting contributions from the Polyvagal theory, the HeartMath Institute and Interpersonal Neurobiology, including an extensive look at the concepts of brain integration, the vagus nerve, Heart Rate Variability (HRV), attachment and the connectome. Through the lens of nervous system regulation as the foundation for optimal brain function, the course will examine diagnoses such as ADHD, ASD, PKN, Dementia, speech and language delays, executive functioning, auditory processing disorder and acquired brain injury (including case studies). The integrative approach taught in this course includes modalities such as music, movement and sensory based intervention to improve outcomes for patients from birth to geriatric and highlights opportunities for SLPs to take an active role in helping shape brain health across the populations they serve. Don't miss the complimentary course on trauma informed care for rehabilitation for an in-depth examination of trauma informed care principles and frameworks and how these can shape evaluation and treatment across disciplines.

Disciplines

• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

Physical Agent Modalities (PAMs) is designed to educate occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants in the use of electrophysical agents in the areas of electrical stimulation (pulsed, alternating, and direct current), and superficial and deep thermal agents (ultrasound, shortwave diathermy and laser). This course is also open to PT/PTAs and Athletic Trainers.

This course meets OT Physical Agent Modalities didactic training requirements in: CA, FL, ID, IL, MA, MD, ND, NH, NJ, NM, NY, PA, SD, WI, WV

Please bring lab attire that allows for access to the shoulder (e.g. loose fitting t-shirt, tank top etc.)

Disciplines

• Physical Therapist
• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapy Asst
• Athletic Trainer

An introductory-level course introducing allied health clinicians to the concept, foundational principles, and history of narrative medicine, how it relates to person-centered care across disciplines, and the benefits for clinicians, patients, and the broader interdisciplinary team. Participants will also engage in an interactive workshop for hands-on practice with replicable techniques.

Disciplines

• Physical Therapist
• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapy Asst
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

There's a growing disconnect between evidence and action in cognitive therapy. Many current practices are outdated and no longer evidence-based, but now therapists have access to the Current INCOG Guidelines to help them plan and implement engaging, evidence-based cognitive therapy.

An expert panel of clinicians and researchers, known as INCOG, developed guidelines for treating TBI patients based on the latest research. This course dives into these updated guidelines, equipping therapists with the tools they need to deliver evidence-based cognitive therapy. A lot has changed in the last decade, and these guidelines provide essential help in planning more functional, effective therapy.

INCOG 2.0 outlines five key domains for cognitive therapy:

• Posttraumatic Amnesia
• Attention and Information Processing
• Executive Functions
• Cognitive-Communication and Social Cognition Disorders
• Memory

This course will explore specific evidence-based therapy interventions for each domain, as well as reviewing old therapy practices that have been proven ineffective. You'll also learn about medications that can assist physicians in decision-making, and audit tools to ensure the most critical interventions are being implemented in your practice.

This course is ideal for any healthcare provider targeting cognition in adults with neurological injuries.

Disciplines

• Physical Therapist
• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapy Asst
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

VISCON 2027

Vision, Concussion, and the Body: A Framework for Neuro-Remedial Rehab

Dates: March 5-7, 2027
Location: CIAO Studios, Gulf Breeze, FL
Format: In person or live stream

VISCON is CIAO's annual conference on remedial and neuro-vision rehabilitation. The 2027 event focuses on concussion and its visual consequences across the lifespan, from pediatric patients through geriatric care, taught through the lens of Occupational-based Neuro Remedial Vision Rehab (OBNRV).

Disciplines

• Occupational Therapist
• Optometrist

There are two ways to participate in this live stream event (BOTH count as LIVE Continuing Education!:):

1. in the LIVE STUDIO audience in Gulf Breeze, Florida - Studio audience seats are limited - so register today!
2. via LIVE STREAM around the world - Live stream participants will login to access the event from their computer and interact with the instructor.

Course time(s):
8:00 AM Central (9:00 AM Eastern; 7:00 AM Mountain; 6:00 AM Pacific)

Vision is our furthest reaching sense, telling us 75% of what we know about the world around us. Stroke, brain injury and concussion can disrupt the visual system, affecting not just our patient's knowledge of the world around them but also how they interact and move through that world. This course will explain the most common visual consequences of stroke and brain injury from double vision, near vision focusing problems to visual cuts. Participants will learn to assess and document these deficits and learn modifications to improve performance and safety during treatment sessions in the clinic and at home. The participants will learn simple, inexpensive techniques to improve visual symptoms and patient outcomes. Physical, Occupational and Speech therapists will all benefit from a deeper understanding of the functional role of the visual system in their patient's recovery.

Disciplines

• Physical Therapist
• Certified Occupational Therapy Asst
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapy Asst
• Speech Language Pathologist
• Speech Language Pathology Asst

There are two ways to participate in this live stream event (BOTH count as LIVE CE):

1. in the LIVE STUDIO audience in Gulf Breeze, Florida - Studio audience seats are limited - so register today!
2. via LIVE STREAM around the world - Live stream participants will login to access the event from their computer and interact with the instructor.

Course begins: 8:00 AM Central (9:00 AM Eastern; 7:00 AM Mountain; 6:00 AM Pacific)
Please contact our office if you have any questions. 850-916-8886.


Current research will be reviewed to explore how the NMES parameters such as frequency, phase duration and duty cycle can be changed to maximize impact. Participants will learn about the benefit of using up to 4 channels of stimulation and will learn how to sequence the stimulation between channels to mimic a normal swallowing sequence. In addition, two new modalities will be reviewed and practiced: sEMG Biofeedback and sEMG triggered electrical stimulation.

Disclosure: This course offering will only cover information that pertains to the effective and safe use of VitalStim Plus.


NOTE: Participant must be a VitalStim Provider to attend this advanced level course.

Disciplines

• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Language Pathologist