I began the path to teacher certification in 2010 before the requirements were changed. I was told that I would be grandfathered in, so to speak, under the standing requirements at that time. I recall the requirements being different in the realm of number and length of silent teacher-led retreats, and the number of MBSR cycles taught. Will you verify that for me, please? I’m preparing to apply for certification this month. Will you post a list of requirements for this here or email me at laurie.swain@sbcglobal.net , please?
2 Likes
Hi, Laurie,
Thanks for posting your question here. I imagine there are others with the same question. I will be checking with those who set the certification requirements when I get back to the office next week. I’ll get back to you as soon as I have an answer for you.
All the best,
Margaret
2 Likes
Hi, Laurie,
I have my hands on the information for the changes that happened in the teacher certification pathway in 2013. You are correct on both counts. Previously, meditation retreats were encouraged but there was no specific minimum requirement laid out in the pathway. For cycles taught, prior to 2013, 4 cycles were requested prior to submitting for certification. After the change, we require having taught 8 cycles. If you began your training prior to 2013, you will submit a teaching portfolio that reflects these pre-2013 requirements and will be considered relative to them. This is how that “grandfathering/grandmothering” happens.
All the best,
Margaret
2 Likes
Thank you, Margaret. I, likewise, began my certification requirements prior to the changes. I appreciate your updating us.
Warm regards,
Melinda Abbott
1 Like
Margaret, I appreciate this so much!.
I am currently in dialogue with the CFM to be certified, after teaching 16 cycles of 8-week MBSR since 2008 and a whole resume documenting dedicated practice, public and personal over the years. I’ve lost track of the “old” standards, can’t find them anywhere in my paper files and don’t find them on line. I’ve requested a clear summary of the certification standards existing in 2008 from the CFM. I’ve not yet received them but if grandmothering/grandfathering is really an option, the standards should be clear as a standard, for determining serious candidates for certification. Thanks so much, Margaret!! This is so relevant to me. Certification is indeed important. This “CFM Certified Teacher” credential has credibility. As we are asked to teach in greater spheres of society, it matters that we have the sanction of the CFM. Geri W. from Bemidji, MN
Well understood, Geri. Let me know if you are still waiting to hear back on your request. Cheers, Margaret