CEDS Certification

Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS)

The Credential That Sets You Apart

Eating disorders are complex. Treating them requires more than general mental health expertise. It demands deep, specialized knowledge, advanced clinical skills, and a nuanced, ethical approach grounded in real experience. The Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) credential from the iaedp Foundation recognizes professionals who have done that work.

View our Application Checklist to determine eligibility. For Spanish version: Lista de verificación para la solicitud de CEDS.

As a requirement for your application, take the four Core Courses online to earn and download your certificates.

This is not a requirement for your application. Use this practice test as an additional study tool before taking the Final Exam. This is a separate, unique login.

As a requirement for your application, once you have completed the Core Courses, take the Final Exam online to earn and download your certificate. This is a separate, unique login.

View our guidelines for consultation. For Spanish version: Directrices para la consulta

Once all requirements are met, submit your documentation in our application portal. This is a separate, unique login.

View our Renewal Checklist to maintain your credential and renew every 2 years.

If you have any questions regarding earning your CEDS, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Certification team.

Note: Certification and renewal fees are non-refundable. This includes application submissions, exam fees, and administrative processing costs. Certification-related purchases support the review, oversight, and credentialing process and cannot be reversed once initiated. Read our full refund policy here.

Not All Credentials Are the Same

In a field where training programs, certificate courses, and specialty designations are plentiful, it is worth understanding what sets a professional certification apart.

A certificate recognizes course completion. The CEDS credential recognizes something more: verified clinical experience working with people who have eating disorders, confirmation of professional qualifications and licensure, demonstrated commitment to ethical practice, and an ongoing requirement for continuing education.

CEDS is not a course you take and file away. It is a credential you maintain. One that tells your colleagues, your employers, and the people you serve that your expertise has been independently validated.

Why Earn a CEDS Credential?

Clinical Excellence
The credential confirms that you have advanced training and supervised experience in eating disorder treatment. You are not just competent — you are a recognized specialist.

Professional Credibility
From private practice to treatment centers, employers and referral sources recognize that CEDS means quality care and proven competency.

Career Advancement
Set yourself apart in a competitive field. Certification opens doors to leadership roles, referrals, and speaking or teaching opportunities.

Trust and Confidence
For people seeking care and their families, seeing CEDS next to your name offers reassurance that they are working with a seasoned, ethical specialist.