Certification in Thanatology (CT®)

Certification in Thanatology (CT^®) is a foundation certification that enhances the professional designation established by the academic discipline of each certificate holder. It recognizes the specific educational background in dying, death and bereavement. Thus, a counselor/therapist or educator is defined by his/her education and work experience. The Certificate in Thanatology notes special education and training in the field.  Obtaining and maintaining this certification makes no statement regarding the holder’s competency in practice, nor does it constitute licensure.  It is ADEC’s policy to take action regarding any known misrepresentation of the CT by a certificant or by others.

Requirements for Certification in Thanatology (CT^®)
To apply to take the certification exam, applicants must have:

• A bachelor's degree (include transcript) and two years of verified related experience*
• Or a master's or doctorate (include transcript) and one year of verified related experience
• 60 documented contact hours** in thanatology and related topics
• 2 letters of support from supervisors or colleagues.

 

* Related experience is self-defined.
** The 60 documented contact hours are defined as education in thanatology or specific topics identified in the CT^® Content Outline in the Candidate Information Bulletin. You must provide documentation for these hours

Educational Experience Requirement
The 60 documented contact hours may be earned through university courses (one three-credit semester course is equivalent to 45 contact hours) or workshops. Educational experiences from any accredited institution will be accepted if they are independently documented by letter or certificate. Courses or workshops by various organizations will also be accepted. ADEC offers workshops and courses as pre-conference activities at its annual conference. See the Distance Education page for listings of ADEC opportunities.

For more information or to prepare for the Certification Exam, read the Candidate Information Bulletin.
For additional certification information, including fees for CT^®, FT^® and recertification, contact:
ADEC's Administrative Director at adec@adec.org.