Extra certifications can make your resume more competitive, open doors to specialized roles or leadership opportunities, and help you better support diverse student needs. Learn about some of the most popular and valuable certifications in the school space that educators, school therapists, and support professionals can pursue to stand out in a competitive job market with ProCare Therapy below.

Top Certifications That Make Education Professionals Stand Out

1. TESOL/TEFL Certification

    • Best for: General education teachers, special educators, and school therapists working with multilingual students
    • What it is: TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certifications prepare professionals to support students who are English Language Learners (ELLs).
    • Why it helps: Even if you’re not an ESL teacher, having this certification shows you’re equipped to communicate across language barriers, support inclusive instruction, and work effectively with diverse student populations.

    2. Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)

    • Best for: Paraprofessionals, behavioral aides, and aspiring special education teachers
    • What it is: The RBT credential is a nationally recognized certification for professionals who implement behavior plans under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
    • Why it helps: This certification is especially valuable in special education settings, helping staff manage behavior, reinforce positive actions, and support students with autism or developmental challenges.

    3. Trauma-Informed Teaching Certification

    • Best for: Teachers, counselors, school psychologists, and mental health staff
    • What it is: This certification equips school professionals to recognize and respond to students affected by trauma. It focuses on building safe, supportive learning environments.
    • Why it helps: Being trauma-informed is now a vital skill, and schools are actively seeking professionals who can support students’ emotional safety and resilience.

    4. IBCCES Autism Certificate (AC)

    • Best for: SLPs, OTs, school psychologists, special education teachers, and counselors
    • What it is: A specialized certification from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) for those who work with students on the autism spectrum. It covers behavior management, communication strategies, and evidence-based practices.
    • Why it helps: With rising autism diagnoses in schools, having this credential shows you’re ready to offer tailored, compassionate, and informed support.

    5. Youth Mental Health First Aid

    • Best for: Anyone working with students
    • What it is: This course trains participants on how to recognize signs of mental health struggles, offer initial support, and connect students to professional help.
    • Why it helps: Mental health is a growing priority in education, and this certification allows educators, school therapists, and support staff to better support students’ emotional well-being.

    6. Google Certified Educator

    • Best for: Teachers and staff in tech-integrated schools
    • What it is: Google’s certification program trains educators in how to effectively use Google tools like Docs, Slides, Classroom, Forms, and more to boost student engagement and streamline teaching.
    • Why it helps: As more schools go digital, being tech-savvy gives you an edge. You’ll stand out as someone who can lead tech integration and adapt to online learning environments with ease.

    7. SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) Certification

    • Best for: All school professionals
    • What it is: An SEL certification is a professional development credential that offers training in fostering students’ emotional intelligence, self-regulation, empathy, relationship-building, and decision-making skills.
    • Why it helps: In today’s classrooms, students are navigating heightened stress, anxiety, and social challenges. Educators with SEL training are better equipped to create inclusive, supportive environments where students feel safe, seen, and empowered to learn.

    8. ESL (English as a Second Language) Certification

    • Best for: General education teachers, special educators, school counselors, and therapists in diverse school communities
    • What it is: ESL certification qualifies educators to teach and support students whose primary language is not English. It teaches educators to use strategies that build vocabulary, support reading comprehension, and encourage academic success across subjects.
    • Why it helps: ESL-certified educators are highly sought after, even for roles that don’t require the certification. It equips educators to support the growing population of ELLs in today’s classrooms and shows you’re prepared to meet the needs of all learners. It’s also a major plus in inclusive, Title I, and diverse school settings.

    Ready to Jumpstart Your Career Growth?

    If you’re looking to stand out in a sea of candidates, earn leadership opportunities, or just feel more confident in your work, pursuing an extra certification can be a powerful step.

    At ProCare Therapy, we do more than place school professionals—we help them grow. Our team connects job seekers with positions that match their goals, certifications, and passions.

    Ready to grow your career in education? Explore all the job opportunities that align with your goals and skillset here with ProCare Therapy today!