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Certus Institute

Advancing Memory Care Through Research, Innovation, and Education

The CERTUS Institute is dedicated to pushing the field of memory care forward through applied research, product development, and educational advancement. Through strategic partnerships and pilot studies, we bring innovation into practice while raising the standard of dementia care.

Mission Statement

To advance the field of memory care through research and development by collaborating with organizations, evaluating programs and products, and delivering high-impact education and support.

Mission Statement

Certifications and Approvals

Our dementia training programs are approved and recognized by national and state-level agencies. These certifications equip professionals, caregivers, and organizations with the tools they need to deliver compassionate and effective dementia care.

Dementia Certification Levels 1–4

Approved through the National Institute for Dementia Education (NIDE)

ALZ I and ALZ II Certification

Approved by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs

Dementia Certification

Dementia Certification qualifies for 10 Nursing CEUs through CE Broker

CERTUS Institute

Core Programs and Services

A comprehensive certification track designed to train professionals in foundational through advanced dementia care best practices.
Train-the-trainer workshops and complete curriculum packages to support the development of effective, sustainable support groups for families and communities.
Participation in and hosting of dementia summits, resource forums, and guest lectures. CEU opportunities are included to support professional development.

Educational coaching for families through our Caregiver College model. Courses provide guidance, tools, and community support for those navigating the challenges of dementia caregiving.

Partner with us to pilot your products or services in real-world memory care environments. We measure outcomes, co-author white papers, and publish journal-ready research to validate and improve dementia-focused innovations.

Research and Development Focus

The Certus Institute specializes in pilot-site case study research. By evaluating emerging tools, programs, and technologies in active memory care environments, we generate meaningful data that helps drive the future of dementia care. Our research efforts are designed to be both practical and forward-thinking—connecting innovation with daily practice.

Our Collaborative Partners Include

Ready to take the next step? Contact us for a free consultation with our financial assistance team. Let us help you create a plan that works for your family’s unique needs.
Logo for National Institute for Dementia Education
University of Central Florida

Additional academic institutions, healthcare providers, and product developers

Who We Are

Meet the Faculty

The Certus Institute is led by a team of experienced professionals committed to elevating dementia care through research, education, and meaningful partnerships. Our faculty brings a blend of clinical expertise, caregiver support, and academic leadership to every initiative.

Dr. Joshua J. Freitas, Ph.D., M.Ed., BC-DEd

Chief Research Officer, CERTUS Institute | Chief Educational Officer, NIDE

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Theda Heiserman, CDP, CADDCT, BC-DEd

Director of Education and Training, CERTUS Institute

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Susan Micheel

Faculty Member, Dementia Education and Community Engagement

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Dementia Friendly Organizations

Hallmark Homecare Indian River & St. Lucie Counties

Primary Care Solutions

Luxury Homes of the Treasure Coast

Intracoastal Hearing Center

Senior Transition Navigator

PRIME Brain/Body/Mind 55+ers, Inc.

Treasure Coast Connector LLC.

Music Matters

hArtsNhAlos

Clutter Busters

View More Dementia-Friendly Resources

Contact Information

Based in Florida, proudly serving partners and professionals across the nation.

Email
info@certusinstitute.org
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Dr. Joshua J. Freitas, Ph.D., M.Ed., BC-DEd

Chief Research Officer, CERTUS Institute | Chief Educational Officer, NIDE

Dr. Freitas is an award-winning memory care program developer, researcher, and author. His philosophies have been featured in numerous publications including Long-Term Living Magazine, Healthcare Provider Magazine, and Science Today. He currently serves as Vice President of Program Development at CERTUS Senior Living, Chief Research Officer at the CERTUS Institute, and Chief Educational Officer and Chair of the Board for the National Institute for Dementia Education (NIDE).

Dr. Freitas holds a doctorate in Gerontology and Aging Neuroscience from the California Institute of Integral Studies and additional training from Lesley University, Harvard University, and Berklee College of Music. He holds five dementia-related certifications and serves on national advocacy boards. Through his books The Dementia Concept and Joining Grandma’s Journey, Dr. Freitas works to shift societal views and reduce stigma around dementia.

Theda Heiserman, CDP, CADDCT, BC-DEd

Director of Education and Training, CERTUS Institute

Theda Heiserman is a Board-Certified Dementia Educator and Dementia Practitioner who leads educational initiatives at the CERTUS Institute. With a deep commitment to improving dementia care, Theda designs and implements training programs grounded in research and real-world caregiving needs. She is also a Certified Life Coach specializing in supporting individuals on their dementia journey and their care partners.

Outside of work, Theda and her husband enjoy nature, community events, time with grandchildren, and biking with their beagle. She volunteers extensively with the Alzheimer’s Association as a Walk Committee Chair, AIM Advocate in Washington, D.C., and community educator. A lifelong learner and volunteer, Theda’s passion for people and innovation makes her a cornerstone of the Institute.

Susan Micheel

Faculty Member, Dementia Education and Community Engagement

Susan Micheel brings over six years of experience as an Education Coordinator in Indian River County, supporting individuals and families caring for loved ones with dementia or movement disorders. Her mission is to ensure every caregiving team is educated and empowered to provide the best possible quality of life.

Susan transitioned into dementia education after a career in technology, where she specialized in simplifying complex systems. Following her personal journey as a caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s, Susan became a certified dementia educator. She now leads caregiver education, provides counseling, and played a key role in establishing a Dementia Friendly Community in Indian River County. Her greatest reward is helping families navigate the “new normal” with compassion and clarity.