The role of an educational therapist has become increasingly vital in today’s ever-evolving educational landscape. Obtaining a professional qualification as an educational therapist signifies a commitment to excellence and professionalism, and reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs of individuals with learning disabilities, disorders, and challenges.
Educational therapy has been formally recognised under procedure code 93.82 since 1986 in the International Classification of Diseases, Clinical Modifications, Ninth Revision, Volume 3 (ICD-9-CM, V-3) of the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is regarded as the gold standard non-pharmacological approach for addressing a wide range of learning disabilities, difficulties, disorders, differences, and deficits.
The WHO framework for inclusive education highlights the critical relationship between health and education, recognising that access to quality education significantly impacts an individual’s overall well-being. This framework affirms the importance of ensuring that individuals with special needs are not left behind, promoting equity by providing all learners, regardless of their abilities, with equal opportunities to succeed, fostering social inclusion, and reducing the stigma associated with disabilities.
● Equips educational therapists with advanced training and specialised knowledge in learning disorders, disabilities, and intervention strategies.
● Enables educational therapists to accurately identify learning difficulties and implement evidence-based interventions.
● Upholds strict ethical standards and professional conduct.
● Ensures accountability to professional bodies, supporting the delivery of high-quality, ethical, and responsible service.
● Enhances professional credibility and builds trust among parents, educators, and allied professionals.
● Positions qualified practitioners for leadership roles that influence policy and drive positive change in practice and standards.
● Brings professional recognition and respect within the educational therapy community.
● Serves as a strong credential for advancing career opportunities, including leadership roles and specialised positions.
The Association is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and expertise in educational therapy. The Membership Committee carefully reviews all applications and verifies that applicants meet the qualifications and criteria required for professional membership.
The Committee currently recognises the Special Needs Educational Therapists (SNET) certification by the International Association of Counselors and Therapists (IACT) as the qualifying framework for AETS membership.
The SNET certification comprises three progressive tiers:
Full members (Associate, Professional, and Fellow) possess privileges such as voting rights and eligibility to hold office.
Depending on learners’ academic background and experience, there are two pathways to achieve SNET certification and AETS membership:
The Progressive Pathway is ideal for new entrants, career changers, and those who have obtained at least a bachelor’s degree from recognised universities without prior relevant experience. Through systematic training, learners will develop both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills required to assess, support and intervene effectively with individuals with learning disabilities, disorders and difficulties.
The Conversion Pathway offers an accelerated pathway designed specifically for experienced professionals already a qualified psychologist, special & inclusive educator, counsellor, social worker, occupational therapist, speech therapist, or other allied health professional and hold a Master’s or PhD qualification.
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