Modules for Direct Service Workers
This eLearning series includes six self-paced modules focused on supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and co-occurring mental health conditions. Learners may complete all modules or select those most relevant to their needs.
- Total time: Approximately 4½–5 hours
- Module length: 45–50 minutes each
- Format: Self-paced; pause and resume anytime
- CEUs: 0.8 hours per module (up to 5 hours total)
Designed for Direct Service Workers and others supporting individuals with IDD, the training emphasizes understanding the whole person, exploring factors that influence behavior, and applying strategies to enhance mental wellness and quality of life.
Modules may be taken individually, though completing them in sequence is recommended. A brief evaluation is required at the end of each module. Note: The Trauma-Informed Care module is required for new ICFs/IID employees.
Continuing Education Credits
Continuing education credits are available for the following licenses: Psychologist, Professional Counselor, Psychological Associate, Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist, Chemical Dependency Counselor, Peer Specialist, Supported Employment Specialist, and Certified Family Partner. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate of completion and applicable continuing education credit.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
DSW Module 1: Co-Occurring Disorders – Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Mental Illness
DSW Module 2: Trauma Informed Care
for Individuals with IDD
DSW Module 3: Functional Behavioral Assessment and Behavior Support
DSW Module 4: Overview of Genetic Syndromes
Associated with IDD
DSW Module 5: Overview of Medical Diagnoses
Associated with IDD
DSW Module 6: Putting it All Together – Supports and Strategies for Direct Service Workers
DSW Module 1: Co-Occurring Disorders – Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Mental Illness
This module examines the mental health needs of individuals with IDD and what it means to have a co-occurring IDD and mental health condition. Mental health conditions are often overlooked in people with IDD. The effect of accurate diagnosis and positive supports to improve recovery outcomes is discussed.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
CEUs Offered: 0.8 hours
DSW Module 6: Putting it All Together – Supports and Strategies for Direct Service Workers
This module reinforces all the topics covered in the previous five modules and provides practical tools that DSWs and other caregivers can use when supporting the mental health needs of people with an IDD. An individual’s behavior is affected by a complex combination of biological, psychological, and social influences. DSWs will learn to use specific strategies to prevent and safely respond to challenging behaviors when they do occur. These strategies help support and promote mental wellness and positive outcomes.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
CEUs Offered: 0.8 hours
DSW Module 2: Trauma Informed Care for Individuals with IDD
This module is required for new employees of Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICFs/IID) and related conditions.
This module teaches the effect of trauma on people with IDD and how to use a trauma-informed care approach with the people you support. The trauma-informed care approach looks at challenging behavior in a new way and emphasizes the importance of supporting mental wellness.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
CEUs Offered: 0.8 hours
DSW Module 3: Functional Behavioral Assessment and Behavior Support
This module explores the foundational principles of positive behavior support. All behavior is a form of communication that serves a purpose. The concepts of functional behavior assessment and positive behavior support are presented.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
CEUs Offered: 0.8 hours
DSW Module 4: Overview of Genetic Syndromes Associated with IDD
This module teaches DSWs and other caregivers about different genetic syndromes that are associated with IDD. Knowing about genetic syndromes and the risks for medical and mental health disorders allows us to provide better, targeted support.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
CEUs Offered: 0.8 hours
DSW Module 5: Overview of Medical Diagnoses Associated with IDD
This module teaches DSWs and other caregivers about common medical conditions that influence people with an IDD and the direct impact these conditions can have on mood and behavior. Behaviors may be an individual’s attempt to communicate physical pain or illness. Strategies are provided to assist DSWs in supporting peoples’ physical and mental wellness.
If you are required to take a specific module you must print and/or save a certificate as proof of completion.
CEUs Offered: 0.8 hours