Question 1

What is the DIR Foundations Certificate?

Accepted Answer

It is Profectum's certification pathway for professionals who want to work from the DIR model. It was previously called DIR Certificate Level 1. The programme moves you from the core ideas of DIR, through the theory underpinning it, to applying it with your own cases under mentoring. Completing all three courses makes you a DIR certified practitioner through Profectum.

Question 2

What are the three courses?

Accepted Answer

Introduction to the DIR Model is the prerequisite. It covers the core ideas of the DIR model: how relationships, play, regulation and individual differences work together to support development.Foundations of DIR Theory goes deeper. You work through the Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities and look at how sensory processing, motor planning, communication, emotional regulation and thinking interact within relationships. Teaching is through lecture, discussion, video analysis and case based learning.Foundations of DIR Practice is where it becomes your own practice. Live classes alternate with small group mentoring led by Profectum faculty. You bring your own video, analyse real cases, and work on integrating DIR thinking into everyday interactions with the children and families you already see.

Question 3

How is this different to the SPOTlight introduction to DIR workshop?

Accepted Answer

SPOTlight Trust is a South African NPO. Until recently SPOTlight ran introductory workshops for parents, teachers and professionals over a weekend. Despite having a similar name, the SPOTlight Intro to DIR is not formal DIR training, but was aimed at providing a working feel for the model. SPOTlight is now focusing on bringing DIR to underresourced communities and supporting parents and teachers. The Profectum Introduction to the DIR Model is the formal first course of the international certification pathway and counts towards the certificate.

Question 4

Do they have to be done in order?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and with no more than six months between each course. The Introduction is a prerequisite for Theory, and Theory is a prerequisite for Practice.

Profectum Introduction to the DIR Model - October 2026

Frequently asked questions

What is the DIR Foundations Certificate?

What are the three courses?

How is this different to the SPOTlight introduction to DIR workshop?

Do they have to be done in order?