CIAO Seminars - VitalStim® Therapy and Beyond: DINES Specialty Certificate Program

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Course Description

"FIRST FIVE" - The first 5 paid registrations at each course gets $100 off the early price of $795! Be sure to register today so you don't miss out!

This is an ADULT FOCUSED COURSE. Click HERE for Pediatric Focus.

Welcome to the UPDATED VitalStim Therapy course!
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. In addition to VitalStim information, this course has been updated with new content that discusses significant growth of scientific research, an increase in available treatment protocols, and an expansion of available equipment options.

Course Description
VitalStim Therapy and Beyond: DINES (Dynamic Integration of NMES and Exercise for Swallowing) This accredited hands-on competency course will focus on the muscle physiology, kinesiology, and pathology of the normal and abnormal swallowing mechanisms. The principles of NMES will be taught in tandem with active dysphagia exercise therapy. NMES for Dysphagia protocols, using FDA cleared devices, will be covered against the backdrop of neurophysiology of the swallowing mechanism and available research. Adjustments to NMES parameters - frequency, phase duration, duty cycle, and more - will be incorporated in specific treatment protocols and extensively practiced in hands-on lab sessions. Cases will be evaluated using the impairment model (pathology; symptoms; signs; dysfunctions; and impairments) and treatment planning will be practiced.

Participants will receive one-on-one attention from two experienced instructors, a dysphagia expert and an electrical stimulation expert. Instructors will deliver relevant information on FDA clearance and clinical options relevant to different equipment options available today to better equip clinicians in the ever-changing world of NMES for dysphagia.

Participants who successfully complete this course will leave as a skilled VitalStim Provider and DINES Provider with the confidence and building blocks needed to implement a successful NMES for dysphagia therapy program.

"I learned more about dysphagia in this course than I did in all of grad school!"
Conflict of Interest
None. This is the only NMES for Dysphagia training course not affiliated with the sale of any equipment or electrode. The content and administration of this course is wholly independent of any manufacturer.

Provider Benefits

A Specialty Certificate from the only accredited NMES for Dysphagia course
VitalStim Provider designation
DINES Provider designation
Access to dedicated NMES Clinical Consultant
Access to the VitalStim/DINES Provider Facebook group - a private network of THOUSANDS of active Providers
Listing on the official VitalStim/DINES Registry
Access to the official VitalStim/DINES Provider Document Library
Access to continuing education specifically for VitalStim/DINES Providers
$50 discount voucher towards the NDC Examination application

This is an intermediate level course. Requirements for the course are as follows:

Successful completion of The Anatomical Study of Swallow Dynamics course
Prior knowledge and experience in dysphagia management
Dysphagia as a significant portion of active caseload
SLP or OTR with current licensure in state of practice
SLP or OTR in compliance with state and national practice acts

DINES Specialty recognition will be awarded to those who cpmplete both::

Online Course: pass written assignments. pass multiple choice quizzes with a minimum 80% accuracy
Live Course - pass written exam with 80% accuracy. Pass practical labs demonstrating safe and accurate application of NMES for dysphagia therapy as determined by both instructors.

NOTE: If these criteria are not met at the course, additional opportunities to successfully complete the process will be available.

Use of Certificate and Title
Participants who successfully complete this course will hold a Specialty Certificate in VitalStim/DINES Therapy and receive the title VitalStim/DINES Provider. This title may be used in signature lines. Certificate holders should not refer to themselves as being “certified” nor add acronyms to their name as a result of the Specialty Certificate. Providers who wish to receive the letters NDC (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Dysphagia Certified) behind their name must pass the national exam. Dysphagia University

Rescinding the Certificate:
CIAO maintains the right to rescind or nullify the Specialty Certificate and VitalStim Provider status in the event the Provider has violated program requirements, policies, or professional board ethics related to the VitalStim Specialty Program.

CIAO offers the VitalStim Specialty course for two populations (adult and pediatric). Either course may be taken to become a VitalStim Provider. VitalStim Providers may treat either or both populations.

VitalStim Therapy and Beyond is now a Specialty Certificate Program!
This program is the only accredited NMES for Dysphagia program. After successful completion of this program, participants receive their Specialty Certificate as a specialist in the use of NMES for the treatment of dysphagia. On April 3, 2015, the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE) granted accreditation to CIAO Seminars' VitalStim Therapy Specialty Program for demonstrating compliance with ICE 1100 - Standard for Assessment-Based Certificate Programs. ICE 1100 was first published in January 2009 to ensure that assessment-based certificate programs adhere to modern standards of practice for the credentialing industry. More information about ICE is available online at www.credentialingexcellence.org.

Renewal Options (Maintain your Specialty Certificate by completing a renewal course once every 3 years)

Live Renewal
Attend the live 2 day VitalStim course again (no online course required for renewal)
16 hrs. of continuing education credit will be awarded for successful completion of course.
Entire live course is required for this option.
Register above by selecting the date/city and clicking register.
Choose the price option labeled "Renewal (no online course required)"

Online Renewal
8.5 hrs. of continuing education credit will be awarded for successful completion of course.
Activate course within 6 months of purchase
30 days to complete once activated

The VitalStim® Therapy and Beyond: DINES Specialty Certificate Program includes the online course, The Anatomical Study of Swallow Dynamics (10 hrs) and the two day hands-on "VitalStim® Therapy and Beyond: DINES Specialty Certificate Program" (16hrs) for a total of 27 hours of continuing education credit.

Do you have access to the VitalStim Plus device? The renewal alone does not satisfy the requirements to use the full components of the advanced VitalStim Plus device. There is separate VitalStim Plus course to cover the additional functions and features that needs to be completed to protect your license. The advanced course covers sEMG, biofeedback, the additional channels, how to use the Bluetooth capability, and more.

VitalStim is a registered trademark of VitalStim, LLC.
VitalStim Therapy and Beyond: DINES Specialty Certificate Program© CIAO Seminars

Vital Stim, VitalStim, Vital Stem, VitalStim Certification, Vitastim, NMES for Dysphagia, ESwallow, Guardian, Tim Carrigan

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Identify and describe the anatomical structures relevant to the swallowing function
Demonstrate accurate palpation of accessible structures in the head and neck region as relevant to the use of NMES
Describe relevant neurological and physiological aspects of normal and abnormal swallowing, including cranial nerve function and muscle fiber types
Describe the swallowing disorder based on the results of the evaluation in terms of impairments and dysfunctions
Formulate the theoretical rationale for using NMES in the treatment of dysphagia
Describe the characteristics of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and the influence of electricity on muscle tissue
Describe the parameters of pulsed waveforms – pulse duration, phase duration, frequency, duty cycle – commonly used in NMES in dysphagia therapy
Describe and demonstrate common problem-solving approaches used in a typical NMES treatment session, including preparing the skin, (re)positioning the electrodes, and adjusting NMES parameters
Describe the physiological impact of modifying the various pulsed waveform parameters on muscle fiber recruitment, fatigue, patient tolerance and exercise intensity
Identify the pathological conditions for which NMES is indicated
List precautions and contraindications to the use of NMES in the head and neck region
Describe the role of regulatory bodies in clearing NMES devices to market and its impact on clinical use of NMES by dysphagia clinicians
Describe the characteristics of typical NMES units and self-adhesive electrodes commonly used in dysphagia therapy
Describe, differentiate and demonstrate the execution of common NMES treatment protocols described in the peer-reviewed literature
Identify appropriate outcome variables to track and measure patient progress
Discuss and demonstrate correct electrode positioning based on patient presentation and anatomical location of target tissues to treat, including the use of one or more stimulation channels and applying electrodes in the facial, suprahyoid and infra
Discuss and demonstrate the use of swallowing exercise during and after the application of NMES

Yorick Wijting

PT, DPT

Yorick received his Physical Therapy degree in the Netherlands and his DPT at the University of St. Augustine, Florida. He has extensive training and practical experience in biophysical agents and teaches nationally and internationally to medical professionals on their therapeutic use. Yorick has been instrumental in developing the use of electrical stimulation by Speech Language Pathologists in the treatment of dysphagia. Yorick currently lives in California and runs his private practice in Gilroy, CA.

Financial Disclosure: Yorick receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of his live course(s) and royalties for the sale of his recorded course(s). Yorick is the author and an instructor for the VitalStim Therapy Specialty Program.
Non-Financial Disclosure: no relevant relationships exist

Jen Carter

M.Ed. CCC-SLP, BCS-S

Jen is a medically-based speech pathologist with 24 years of experience evaluating and treating dysphagia and is a board certified specialist in swallowing and swallowing disorders. She currently lives in Denver and has a private practice, the Carter Swallowing Center, solely focused on dysphagia. She frequently presents at the local, state, and national level on the topic of swallowing treatment. When she’s not working, Jen enjoys hiking and backpacking in Colorado.

Financial Disclosure: Jen receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of her live courses and royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s).
Non-Financial Disclosure: Jen uses VitalStim Therapy in her practice.

Jodie Dacy

M.S. CCC-SLP, NDC

Jodie graduated from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL with a Master of Science degree in Communication Disorders. She has been a practicing speech language pathologist since 1995 with extensive experience in the private sector, school settings and clinical experience in hospital settings which include long term care and outpatient rehab. Jodie became a VitalStim® Provider in 2005. Since then she has utilized this modality in the treatment of dysphagia with both her pediatric and adult patients. Jodie is also a licensed NOMAS® practitioner and certified in NDC (NMES for Dysphagia), MDTP (McNeil Dysphagia Therapy Program) and Myofascial Release. She has presented locally and nationally on various topics such as Best Practices, The Benefits of Oral Motor/Feeding Therapy on Articulation/Speech Clarity amongst others. Currently, Jodie serves the Speech Language Pathology profession as a therapist at Val Verde Regional Hospital in TX and as a certified instructor of the VitalStim® Therapy and DINES Specialty Certificate Program for CIAO Seminars.

Financial Disclosure: Jodie receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: Jodie uses VitalStim Therapy in her practice.

Julie DeVahl

PT, DPT, OCS

Julie DeVahl, PT, DPT, OCS was an Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Education in the Physical Therapy Department at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, TX from 2002 until she retired Dec 2022. A physical therapist since 1979, Julie brought her experience with electrical stimulation in clinical practice to the classroom. In addition to teaching, she maintained a clinical practice, working primarily with patients with temporomandibular dysfunction and facial paralysis. Julie is board-certified in orthopaedic physical therapy and an active member of the APTA and TPTA. She has been an instructor for CIAO since 2003 and adds an inviting style of teaching to the VitalStim Therapy Specialty Program. “I see my role as an instructor to enable the SLPs and OTs to feel as comfortable using electrical stimulation as they do giving verbal instructions for swallowing.”

Financial Disclosure: Julie receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: No relevant disclosures.

Denise Dougherty

MA, CCC-SLP

Denise Dougherty, MA, CCC-SLP
Denise owns and operates a private practice in Indiana, PA, where she conducts therapy with both children and adults. She is a legal consultant/expert witness in wrongful death/negligence lawsuits involving dysphagia. Denise is a co-editor of Private Practice Essentials: A Practical Guide for Speech-Language Pathologists, published by ASHA Press. She has presented workshops and written numerous articles appearing in the ASHA Leader on the topic of private practice. Denise served as a consultant for The Arijah Children’s Foundation in Anguilla, BWI, providing evaluations and therapy programs for special needs children. Ms. Dougherty was an adjunct faculty member at York College of Pennsylvania and Wesley College in Dover, Delaware. She is a past President of the American Academy of Private Practice in Speech Pathology and Audiology (AAPPSPA), and received the Academy’s 2007 Honor Award and 2014 Award of Excellence for her achievements. Ms. Dougherty is a member of the Technical Experts Panel for Quality of Insights of Pennsylvania, working on initiating quality measures for CMS to improve effectiveness, efficiency, economy and quality of services delivered to Medicare beneficiaries. She received her bachelor’s degree in communication disorders from Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania; a master’s degree in communication disorders from St. Louis University. Ms. Dougherty is certified in VitalStim® therapy and is a VitalStim® instructor, has completed additional training in orofacial myology, is a member of the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association and has received numerous ASHA ACE Awards. For more information, please visit www.dldspeechpath.com.

Financial Disclosure Denise receives honoraria from CIAO for the presentation of her live courses and royalties for the sale of her online courses. Denise is in private practice and receives legal consultant/expert witness fees
Non-Financial Disclosure: There are no non-financial relationships to disclose.

Joe Gallo

DSc, ATC, PT

Dr. Joe Gallo earned his BS in Physical Education and Athletic Training and his Master’s in Physical Therapy. He also holds a Doctor of Science degree in Physical Therapy. He currently serves as Director and Professor in the Salem State University Athletic Training Program. He also held faculty appointments in various physical therapy and physical therapist assistant programs in his over 20 year career as an educator. Dr. Gallo is currently a Certified Instructor for the VitalStim® Therapy Specialty Program teaching NMES for the treatment of dysphagia. He has taught over 300 continuing education workshops to rehabilitation specialists across the United States. Joe’s research on electrophysical agents has been published in the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy, and the Chinese journal of Sportsmedicine. In addition to his teaching and research, Joe has also maintained clinical practice in a variety of settings throughout his career.

Financial Disclosures: Dr. Gallo receives an honorarium for speaking/teaching live courses through CIAO Seminars. He also receives royalties for the purchase of his recorded courses and the purchase of his Ultrasound book.
Non-Financial Disclosures: Dr. Gallo uses modalities in his clinical practice.

Gina Gallo

M.S. CCC-SLP, NDC

Gina E. Gallo was educated at the University of Rhode Island where she received her B.S. in Communication Disorders and her M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology. Gina has worked as a medical Speech-Language Pathologist since 1998 across various levels of care, concentrating in swallowing and voice disorders. She is a Certified VitalStim Instructor and uses Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in her clinical practice at Spaulding Outpatient Center. Gina recently became one of the first SLPs to earn the NDC credential (NMES for Dysphagia Certified). She has worked extensively with patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer, and previously served on Head and Neck Tumor Board at Rhode Island Hospital. She has also served as a guest lecturer for the Southern New England Rehab Center annual conference, and as Adjunct Faculty at the University of Rhode Island in the area of Voice Disorders.

Financial Disclosure: Gina receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: Gina uses VitalStim Therapy in her practice.

Penny Head

PT, PhD, SCS, ATC

Penny Head is an ABPTS Board Certified Specialist in sports physical therapy and an NATABOC Certified Athletic Trainer. With over 17 years’ experience Penny is currently the Clinical Director of Sports Medicine at Baptist Rehab Hospital in Tennessee. She has also worked as a Sports Medicine Coordinator and Director of Physical Therapy in a clinical setting. Penny is currently a guest lecturer and lab instructor at the University of Tennessee, her alma mater. Penny is also currently a Certified Instructor for the VitalStim® Certification Course teaching NMES for the treatment of dysphagia. She has served as Certified Athletic Trainer, Team Physical Therapist and Rehab Consultant to several athletic programs including the Memphis Redbirds. Penny is a member of APTA, Tennessee PT Association, and Tennessee Athletic Trainers Association.

Financial Disclosure: Penny receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: No relevant relationships

Tom Holland

PhD, PT

Dr. Tom Holland received his physical therapy education and his PhD degree from the Physical Therapy Program of NYU. He is an Assistant Professor at the City University of New York - Hunter College/Program in Physical Therapy. In addition, he is an Adjunct Instructor at New York University, Columbia University, and Dominican College. His practice includes per diem work at Kessler Institute (Saddle Brook NJ). Tom's physical therapist practice and specialty areas include physical modalities and kinesiology. Tom has been a Certified VitalStim Instructor since 2002 and has co-taught dozens of VitalStim Certification Courses across the country.

Financial Disclosure: Tom receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. He also receives royalties for the purchase of his recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: no relevant relationships

John Kelly

M.P.T.

A graduate of the University of St. Augustine’s graduate Physical Therapy Program. John has over 17 years’ experience with acute inpatient and hospital-based outpatient rehabilitation and currently an outpatient clinical director for Siskin Rehabilitation Hospital in Chattanooga, Tennessee. John continues to balance full time patient care with administrative responsibilities. John is NDT certified and an experienced manual orthopedic therapist working toward his clinical doctorate and manual therapy certification. John is a certified VitalStim® Instructor and has taught orthopaedic and electrotherapy courses across the country. John is an accomplished clinical instructor and consistently is recognized for his exceptional patient rapport and strong evaluations from course participants.

Financial Disclosure: John is a salaried employee for his position at Siskin Rehabilitation Hospital. John Kelly receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of his live courses. He also receives royalties for the purchase of his recorded course(s)
Non-financial Disclosure: No relevant non-financial relationship exists.

Karin Mitchell

M.A. CCC-SLP

Karin Mitchell is a worldwide respected Speech Language Pathologist specializing in the care and treatment of pediatric feeding and swallowing, developmental care of the medically fragile infant and child, and pediatric traumatic brain injury. Her love of teaching and helping others drives her to create and deliver fun and empowering continuing education courses across the nation and internationally. Areas covered are Developmental Care in the NICU, Cue Based Feeding, pediatric feeding and swallowing analysis and treatment, including the use of VitalStim, swallow studies, enhancing decision making and clinical analysis, breast feeding the medically fragile infant and child, and developmental milestones supporting feeding skill acquisition. Beginning her practice in 1995, Karin sought out learning opportunities and creative ways to teach others. She now serves as a lead therapist for the NICU and Feeding Teams at CHOC Children’s Hospital in Orange, CA. With a clinical practice formed by a strong theory base in NDT and SI therapies, Karin is also NOMAS trained and VitalStim certified. She provides ongoing education in-services and hands-on labs for appropriate developmental care, positioning, handling, and feeding skills for clinical staff including medical residents, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists. Karin was a key player in the development of unit protocols and care plans for evidence-based developmental care in the highly specialized Small Baby Unit (ELBW) at CHOC which includes an ongoing education series required by all medical and support personnel. She is an active committee member for multiple qualities of care committees including Skin to Skin Care, Developmental Care, Infant Driven Feeds, Breast Feeding Coalition, Palliative Care, Neuro NICU Team, Trauma Team, and Family Centered Care. A dedicated leader, Karin devotes much of her time to the support and development of clinicians, serving as a mentor committed to building therapist's skills in clinical analysis and therapeutic effectiveness with medically fragile patients. She is a strong advocate for her patients and their families and speaks at local associations, community centers, local universities, and school districts to support medically fragile infants and children.

Financial Disclosure: Karin receives an honorarium from CIAO for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-financial Disclosure: Karin uses VitalStim in her clinical practice.

JONATHAN ROSE

MS, PT, SCS, ATC

Jon received his Master of Science from Eastern Illinois University in 1992 and his Certificate of Physical Therapy from Ohio State in 1997. Jon currently holds an academic appointment as an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, TN. He teaches courses in anatomy, pathology, orthopedics, and sports medicine. He continues to treat patients and conduct research at Campbell Clinic. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in educational research at the University of Memphis. Formerly the director of rehabilitation for Samaritan Regional Health System in Ashland, Ohio, Jon has also worked as the Director of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Coordinator for Campbell Clinic in Memphis, TN. Jon is currently a Certified Instructor for the VitalStim® Certification Course teaching NMES for the treatment of dysphagia. Jon’s professional appointments include Team Physical Therapist and Rehab Consultant for several semi-professional and professional sports teams. He is an NATABOC certified Athletic Trainer and a member of the APTA, Ohio PT Association, and Tennessee Athletic Trainers Association.

Financial Disclosure: Jon receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. He also receives royalties for the purchase of his recorded course(s).
Non-financial Disclosure: There are no financial relationships to disclose.

Kelly Salmon

SLPD, CCC-SLP, BCS-S, CLT-LANA, NDC

Kelly is a speech-language pathologist (SLP) specializing in the treatment of adults with communication and swallowing disorders across the continuum of care. She has been a Board Certified Specialist in Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (BCS-S) since 2011 and is one of the only SLPs in the U.S. to earn designation in 2014 as a Lymphology Association of North America Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT-LANA) specializing in the treatment of head and neck lymphedema. Over the past several years of her career, Kelly has focused on becoming an expert in the treatment of swallowing disorders resulting from many medical conditions including head and neck cancer, stroke, and progressive disease and recently became one of the first SLPs to earn the NDC credential (NMES for dysphagia certified). She also works with individuals following total laryngectomy to rehabilitate and restore communication and swallowing function. Kelly was awarded her bachelors degree in speech pathology and audiology at Stockton University in New Jersey, her masters degree in speech pathology at New York University, and is currently completing her clinical doctorate in speech pathology at Nova Southeastern University. Kelly takes pride in contributing to the field of speech-language pathology through teaching a graduate-level dysphagia course at Temple University in Philadelphia, supervising speech-pathology students, presenting posters and lectures at national conferences, publishing articles on various topics related to swallowing and communication disorders, and engaging in multidisciplinary research initiatives. She is currently in the process of completing a clinical research study examining swallowing-related outcomes for individuals undergoing specialized robotic surgery for head and neck cancer. Kelly works in an otolaryngology practice at a large academic medical center in Philadelphia, PA and is dedicated to providing the highest level of evidence-based care for all of her patients.

Financial Disclosure: Kelly receives honoraria from CIAO Seminars for the presentation of this course. She also receives royalties for the purchase of her recorded course(s)
Non-Financial Disclosure: Kelly uses VitalStim Therapy in her practice.

Day 1

07:30 - 08:00

Registration (snack/refreshments provided)

08:00 - 08:15

Introduction, program overview, objectives

08:15 - 08:45

Physiology, anatomy, neurology review

08:45 - 10:00

Palpation of head and neck structures (lab)

10:00 - 10:15

Break

10:15 - 12:00

Exercise and Dysphagia

12:00 - 01:00

Lunch (on your own)

01:00 - 02:30

Electrical stimulation: theory & lab demonstration

02:30 - 02:45

Break

02:45 - 05:30

Electrical stimulation: theory & lab demonstration continued

05:30 - 06:30

Written Exam

Day 2

07:00 - 07:30

Sign-In (snack/refreshments provided)

07:30 - 08:00

Review of material day 1, Q&A

08:00 - 08:30

Exam review and scoring

08:30 - 10:00

NMES protocols (lab)

10:00 - 10:15

Break

10:15 - 11:30

NMES protocols (lab) continued

11:30 - 12:30

Lunch (on your own)

12:30 - 03:15

Integration: case studies, problem solving

03:15 - 03:30

Resource Network for Registered Providers

03:30 - 03:45

Q & A

Delivery VIA:

Live On Tour - This course is now being offered live on locations throughout the United States.
Live By Request - This course is available to come to you! Contact us to see how easy that can be. mail@ciaoseminars.com

Contact hours pre-approved for:

16 Hours
CIAO is an Approved Provider for ASHA #AAWA (1.6 ASHA CEUs)
CIAO is an Approved Provider for AOTA #4119 (1.6 AOTA CEUs)
This course meets PDU requirements for NBCOT (20 PDUs Clinical Lab Assessment)
ASHA CE Provider Approval and use of the Brand Block does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products, or clinical procedures.
CIAO is authorized by IACET to offer 1.6 CEUs for this program
As an IACET Accredited Provider, CIAO offers CEUs for its programs that qualify under the ANSI/IACET Standard
This course is approved by the CA Board of OT for Advanced Practice
- 11.25 hrs Physical Agent Modalities CABOT#25-P4
- 7.0 hrs Swallowing CABOT#25-S1
16 hrs. OTs in FL (CE Broker #20-515988)

Course meets requirements for:

OT/COTAs in AL, AZ, AK, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, LA, KS, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT,

OT/COTAs in NE, NV, NH, NJ, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY

AOTA Classification Codes: Domain of OT: Client Factors, Context Environment OT Process: Intervention

CIAO is recognized on the NBCOT Provider Registry (meets PDU requirements for NBCOT)

The assignment of AOTA CEUs does not imply endorsement of specific course content, products, or clinical procedures by AOTA.

CIAO is accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). CIAO complies with the ANSI/IACET Standard, which is recognized internationally as a standard of excellence in instructional practices. As a result of this accreditation, CIAO is accredited to issue the IACET CEU.

CIAO Automatically reports to CE Broker for Florida Occupational and Physical Therapists and Assistants. Florida SLPs can either use the ASHA CE Participant Form (Bubble Sheet) or self-submit through CE Broker.

This course is offered for 1.6 ASHA CEUs (Intermediate level, Professional area)..

Reviews

A wonderful course filled with such beneficial demonstrations and educational opportunities.

- Philadelphia, PA / Oct 2024

Kelly and Tom were great instructors- helpful, knowledgable, and compassionate about their fields. Great course for new or experienced SLPs.

- Philadelphia, PA / Oct 2024

Binder is a great resource!

- Philadelphia, PA / Oct 2024

I learned so much more that I even expected.

- Denver, CO / Sep 2024

First time doing this course and I really enjoyed it! Learn so much and so cool to hear and see all the different perspectives.

- Columbus, OH / Sep 2024

Wonderfully engaging!

- Louisville, KY / Aug 2024

Excellent course! I enjoyed the subject matter because it was all very practical.

- Augusta, GA / Aug 2024

Thank you! The course was incredibly informative and helpful. Thank you also to Encompass for hosting the program.

- Rock Hill, SC / Jul 2024

Thanks to Encompass for hosting us!!

- Rock Hill, SC / Jul 2024

Really enjoyed this course! Ive taken vs. cert previously and loved the new info. Thank you for a great weekend!

- Lubbock , TX / Jul 2024

This course taught me more than my entire grad school course!

- Lubbock , TX / Jul 2024

Days were long, but no information provided was useless- all very helpful and informative! Increased general dysphagia treatment knowledge too!

- Minneapolis, MN / Jul 2024

Love the manual. Very good technical and practical info presented. The last portion of presentation was information covering more general dysphagia knowledge- would have preferred case studies challenging our abilities to match specific dysfunction w/ muscles to target and electrode plant.

- Minneapolis, MN / Jul 2024

Slightly difficult to understand and process all the information given during seminar with application of skills. As a much newer grad working only part-time in medical field, I need more practice and application to present more confidently and provide this treatment to any patients. I mainly took this course to build basic dysphagia knowledge, which I definitely gained!

- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2024

Excellent course and presenters. Only area I feel could improve is more opportunities for placement, more than 1-2x, and feedback on each one. This is what can make or break the effectiveness, so I feel it needs more attention. Thanks!

- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2024

I feel refreshed and re-excited about treating dysphagia!

- Kansas City, MO / Jun 2024

Exceeded my expectations. Both presenters were engaging and knowledgeable but Denise was amazing at passing along her clinical expertise! I feel very lucky to have had her.

- Grand Rapids, MI / Jun 2024

I thought it was a great course! I learned so much and appreciated that we were able to practice using the device and electrodes. Both of the presenters were amazing!

- Grand Rapids, MI / Jun 2024

Great course, very comprehensive with excellent presenters; can’t wait to begin using NMES on my patients

- Valencia, CA / Jun 2024

This course surpassed my expectations in every way! I am so inspired and excited about the material learned and I can’t wait to get back to work to use all of this new information. Thank you so much for teaching with kindness, patience, and compassion. My outlook on interpretation of MBS approach to treatment has changed drastically and I am so grateful.

- Valencia, CA / Jun 2024

Wonderful course! Thank you!

- PISCATAWAY, NJ / May 2024

I noted improvements in the manual since my initial certification in 2020. Kelly is amazing and has a wealth of knowledge and Tom explained information in a manner that was clearer/ more digestive than during my prior training. Thank you!

- PISCATAWAY, NJ / May 2024

Thank you for the beautiful illustrations! Thank you for "hands on" practice! The material is extremely complicated and intense. With your presentation and effective hands-on help, you taught me a great deal!

- Orlando, FL / Apr 2024

Great course! A lot of functional applications. I appreciated the anatomy review.

- Orlando, FL / Apr 2024

I loved this course. I went in with minimal knowledge of NMES, and now feel able to correctly place electrodes and determine appropriate placement. Thank you Jodie and Julie!

- Dallas, TX / Apr 2024

This was very informal & answered many questions. Eager to apply this new knowledge to patients and continue learning more about NMES!!

- Dallas, TX / Apr 2024

Presenters did a wonderful job at presenting information & assisting with hands on experience and labs. Visuals assisted throughout course.

- Dallas, TX / Apr 2024

Great course, excellent presenters. Very knowledgeable and personable.

- Saint Louis, MO / Apr 2024

Very thorough and informative content with applications for practice. Speakers, knowledgeable and simplifies complex info.

- Saint Louis, MO / Apr 2024

Thanks for having this course live. Please keep live courses available

- New Orleans, LA / Mar 2024

This course was a great refresher of cranial nerves and their functions. The use of real life examples was very helpful in addition to the hands-on labs.

- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024

Learned a lot more than I thought I would! We learned about other tips outside of/beside, vitalstim/NMES.

- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024

Very informative course for background on anatomy and for hands-on learning with the device! I feel confident and excited to provide a new level of care to my patients!

- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024

I leave a lot of courses, not feeling like I learned anything. That wasn't the case here. I feel like a new and better therapist.

- Knoxville, TN / Mar 2024

This course was very educational and designed very well to facilitate learning and understanding.

- Baltimore, MD / Jan 2024

I appreciated the time + experience from our instructors today. I felt they provided the opportunity for questions + real life application from examples/experiences from their clinical practices.

- Baltimore, MD / Jan 2024

I learned more about dypshagia in this course than i did in grad school and through experience. Jodie is phenomenal!

- Phoenix, AZ / Dec 2023

The course was engaging and interactive- instructors were super helpful and helped me feel comfortable- they were supportive and very kind which eased my anxiety/nervousness about the lab component.

- Miami, FL / Dec 2023

Presenters were well-versed and knowledgeable about the material. Great hands-on practice!

- Chattanooga, TN / Nov 2023

I always enjoy CIAO live classes. I learn something new each time I recertify.

- Houston, TX / Nov 2023

FANTASTIC speakers! I loved the anatomy/physiology review as well as the case studies. one thing I might change would be for the exam to more closely align with the course content.

- Houston, TX / Nov 2023

Greatly improved my knowledge and confidence in using vitalstim. I'fd love to purchase the new device

- Houston, TX / Nov 2023

One of the best courses I've taken! Definitely worth the cost. I learned so much! The manual binder is clear and so helpful.

- Tampa, FL / Oct 2023

This course kept my attention and interest. Perfect amount of time to feel adequately prepared.

- Tampa, FL / Oct 2023

A fantastic course! Presenters were very knowledgeable about the subject and expert in their field. I would highly recommend!

- Seattle, WA / Sep 2023

Presenters both very knowledgabe - able to re-phrase / explain and frequent check-ins to make sure we understood info and offered opportunities for questions. Both did excellent.

- Boston/Waltham, MA / Sep 2023

Excited to cross-over to the peds bundle!

- Atlanta, GA / Aug 2023

Nice handouts and case studies at end. Demo/hands on lab very helpful

- Santa Ana, CA / Aug 2023

Presenters were excellent and well-knowledged

- Charlotte, NC / Jul 2023

Jodie did an amazing job of bridging the gap between text book knowledge and applicatioin into tx sessions. John provided an overall picture of the entire body's involvement in swallowing.

- Jackson/Flowood, MS / Jul 2023

So much more information than Ampcare. I feel as though I have a real understanding now. Thank you SO much!

- Jackson/Flowood, MS / Jul 2023

I would benefit from more practice with adjusting settings based on case scenarios, but this will come with practice :)

- Pittsburgh, PA / Jun 2023

Please consider having speakers use microphone lecture as it was difficult to hear information at times in a large room.

- Glen Cove/Long Island, NY / Jun 2023

Well put together course with exceptional information. Jodie and Joe are wonderful and highly capable in their ability to communicate the material. The physics/Estim section at the end of the day one is difficult, due to being at the end of the day.

- St Louis, MO / Jun 2023

The instructors werevery knowledgable and friendly. Loved Lesley's personality and energy! The course ran on time, was very informative and prepared me for actual treatment,

- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023

The presenters were knowledgable and answered all questions with details. The labs were helpful in identifying the proper placement for electrodes. Don't change anything. It's perfect as it is!

- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023

This course had the most in-depth anatomy overview of any course I've ever taken, but was explained so thoroughly that it was easier to understand. Y'all know your stuff! Thank you! :)

- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023

Great course! 5 stars!

- Jacksonville, FL / May 2023

More capability and confidence using NMES. A fantastic course! Jon and Jen are fantastic instructors who crammed valuable (a ton of) info into 2 days and made it very enjoyable. Time flew by!