Is becoming a chronic disorganization specialist right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
Still unsure if becoming a chronic disorganization specialist is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a chronic disorganization specialist or another similar career!
Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.
How to become a Chronic Disorganization Specialist
Becoming a chronic disorganization specialist is a multi-step process that emphasizes specialized education, practical experience, and professional credentialing, moving far beyond general organizing skills. Here’s an overview of the pathway to the career:
Gain Foundational Experience
Start by working as a general professional organizer to build essential organizing skills, client management expertise, and an initial understanding of the business. You will need a minimum of two years of paid experience working as a professional organizer to qualify for advanced certification.
Complete Education offered by the Institute for Challenging Disorganization - ICD (Voluntary but Highly Valuable)
The ICD is regarded as the premier resource for chronic disorganization related education, research, and strategies.
Enroll in and complete the ICD Level I Study Series
Start with the Foundation Certificate in Chronic Disorganization. This is a prerequisite for all subsequent, more specialized ICD education.
The following certificates of study provide further Level I education in specific subject areas:
- Certificate of Study in ADHD
- Certificate of Study in Client Management
- Certificate of Study in Health Issues and Conditions and the Client Affected by CD
- Certificate of Study in Understanding the Needs of the Aging Client
- Certificate of Study in Interpersonal Intelligence
- Certificate of Study in Understanding Hoarding Behavior
- Certificate of Study in Students and Learning Theories
- Certificate of Study in Life Transitions and the Client Affected by CD
- Certificate of Study in Time Management and Productivity
Pursue ICD Level II Specialist Certifications
- Chronic Disorganization Specialist Certificate
- ADHD Organizing Specialist Certificate
- Aging Specialist Certificate
- Hoarding Specialist Certificate
- Time Management and Productivity Specialist Certificate
Pursue ICD Level III Certification
A Level III Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization (CPO-CD) is a professional organizer who has attained the highest level of mastery in managing the issues of chronic disorganization. The CPO-CD student spends 17-20 months of intensive time studying and applying this learning in practical application with current clients.
The purpose of the ICD CPO-CD program is to develop a professional organizer’s skills and knowledge by utilizing a mentor-style relationship. This program provides an environment and forum to discuss client issues, problems, and challenges. Recertification is required every three years.
Other Relevant Certifications and Credentials
These designations are also relevant for chronic disorganization specialists:
- Certified Professional Organizer (CPO) – The CPO, awarded by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers (BCPO), is the industry’s most respected, globally recognized credential. To earn it, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and 1,000 to 5,000 hours of paid organizing work experience accumulated within the five years prior to application. In addition, they must pass a comprehensive standardized exam and agree to adhere to the BCPO code of ethics. To maintain their CPO designation, they are required to pay an annual fee and to recertify every three years through either continuing education hours or retaking the exam.
- Trained Professional Organizer (TPO) – The Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) awards this credential to individuals who complete their structured education program.
Earn a Formal Degree (Optional but Beneficial)
Degrees in fields like psychology, social work, counseling psychology, mental health counseling, behavioral science, or even education can provide an invaluable background in human behavior, motivational techniques, and learning styles, which are crucial for working with CD clients.
Professional Organizations
In addition to the Institute for Challenging Disorganization, these professional organizations also support the industry through networking, mentorship, and continuing education:
- National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO) – NAPO is dedicated to helping people and organizations bring order and efficiency to their lives. Its mission is to be the leading source for organizing and productivity professionals by providing education, enhancing business connections, advancing industry research, and increasing public awareness.
- Association of Professional Declutterers & Organisers (APDO) – This membership association provides training and a strong professional community for organizers and declutterers working in the UK.
Continuing Education
In this behavioral and cognitive-based practice, ongoing training is necessary, focusing on the latest research in executive function, neurodiversity, mental health, and organizing methodologies.