Credentials for careers with older adults
Recognized professional certifications spanning activity direction, music and art therapy, recreation therapy, and animal-assisted programs.
NCCAP — Activity Professional
National certification for activity directors, consultants, and educators serving older adults.
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ExternalCBMT — Board Certified Music Therapist
The MT-BC credential establishing competency for music therapy practice across clinical settings.
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ExternalATCB — Art Therapy Credentials
ATR and ATR-BC credentials recognizing art therapy education, supervision, and exam competency.
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ExternalADTA — Dance/Movement Therapy
R-DMT and BC-DMT credentials for practitioners of dance and movement-based therapy.
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ExternalYoga Alliance — RYT Credentials
Registered Yoga Teacher certifications recognized in wellness and therapeutic programming.
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ExternalNCTRC — Therapeutic Recreation Certification
The CTRS credential — the standard for therapeutic recreation specialists in the U.S.
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ExternalMHTP — Certified Music Practitioner
Music for Healing & Transition Program — how to apply and become a Certified Music Practitioner.
Visit siteNurse.org — How to Become a CNA
Certified Nursing Assistant guide covering training, exams, salary, and career growth.
Learn morePet Partners — Therapy Animal Volunteers
Register and train as a certified therapy animal team to volunteer in senior communities.
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ExternalAMTA — Becoming a Music Therapist
Education, clinical training, and career information for becoming a music therapist.
Visit siteAlison — 6,000+ Free Online Courses
Alison offers more than 6,000 free online courses, including CPD-accredited certificate and diploma programs. It's a useful skill-building option for activity directors, recreational therapy professionals, caregivers, CNAs, and job seekers looking to grow their knowledge or strengthen a résumé — covering topics like healthcare basics, mental health, dementia awareness, leadership, communication, and workplace skills.
Explore Free Courses on AlisonAlison is an independent learning platform. Its courses and certificates are not issued, endorsed, or accredited by Play it for SeniorsSM.
Affiliate disclosure: Play it for SeniorsSM may earn a commission from purchases made through certain links. This helps support our programs and mission.
