NADD developed the NADD Competency-Based IDD/MI Dual Diagnosis Specialist Certification Program to improve the quality and effectiveness of services provided to individuals with a dual diagnosis through the development of competency-based professional standards and through promoting ongoing professional development.

Specialist certification through NADD validates and provides assurance to people receiving services, professional colleagues, employers, and third-party payers that a specialist has met the standards established by NADD for providing services to individuals with IDD/MI.  Certification attests to the specialist’s competency in providing these services.

Specialists who receive NADD certification will be entitled to use “NADD-DDS” as a credential.

A Specialist in the field of dual diagnosis is defined as an individual who delivers, manages, trains and/or supervises services for persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mental health needs.  Staff working in units of county, state or provincial government, QIDPs, program directors, program supervisors, case/care managers, program specialists, supports coordinators, peer specialists, trainers and others are examples of roles that can apply for the Specialist certification.