Notice of Annual General Meeting: Friday 21 November 2025 6pm (AEDT) - click here for details
Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Australia
About CST
How do I find a CST program?
To find a CST program near you, click the button below.
How long does each CST session last?
Each session lasts around 45 minutes but can be tailored to meet the needs of participants. Some sessions can last for up to 90 minutes and may include refreshments.
What if I can't make it to a session?
If unable to attend a CST session please advise the CST organiser. As CST is conducted as a series of sessions, refunds for an individual session are not provided, but you should check the terms and conditions of your CST treatment.
How long is a CST program?
Group CST runs for 14 sessions, usually held twice a week over seven weeks. Maintenance CST is conducted weekly for 24 sessions and Individual CST is held three times a week for 25 weeks.
How do I prepare for my CST session?
Before your session, please read the background information provided to you by the organiser. Aim to attend each session on time to maximise the benefits and enjoyment. No other preparations are required unless suggested by facilitators.
How do I know if CST is suitable for me?
You don’t need any particular skills, knowledge or abilities to participate in CST. However, participants must have evidence of a diagnosis of mild to moderate dementia. Participants should also be able to hear and see well enough to participate in discussions, view visual materials and be comfortable remaining in a session for 45 minutes. Participants must be interested and committed to attend all sessions to receive maximum benefit.
How much does it cost to participate in CST?
The cost of CST varies depending on the location, the organiser, whether the treatment is funded, delivered by a residential care setting, or within a homecare package. Therefore, CST treatments may be full-fee paying, partially subsidised or free. This information will be provided to you by the organiser before you register.
Becoming a CST facilitator
How do I become a CST facilitator?
To become a CST facilitator, you need to undergo a one-day training program and be interested to deliver an innovative, non-pharmacological small-group treatment for people living with dementia. You should choose a training conducted by a recognised ‘Master Trainer’, so your training is recognised by the International CST Centre. For more information click the button below.
Why are two CST facilitators needed?
The delivery of CST by two people ensures that the safety, preferences and needs of all participants are met. As care partners do not attend CST sessions, facilitators support all participants in formal and informal activities.
Do CST facilitators need any skills, knowledge or professional experience?
CST is delivered by health and aged care professionals such as occupational therapists, psychologists, diversional therapists and social support program workers. Facilitators should ideally have experience working with people with dementia and running groups. You do not need to have particular professional qualifications to be a CST facilitator. The CST treatment is structured and guided by a manual, however, CST facilitators need to plan each session, gather resources and adapt activities to suit the needs and interests of the participants. This requires facilitators to be observant and flexible to meet the needs of all participants. Like all group activities, in CST some people are reserved, while others are more open to sharing information. It is the role of facilitators to encourage all participants to contribute and take turns to speak and listen, as well as taking on leadership roles.
How long does the CST facilitator training take?
The CST facilitator training is a seven (7) hour program including breaks.
What will I learn in the CST facilitator training?
This training teaches you how to facilitate CST sessions for people with mild to moderate dementia. You’ll learn how to apply the 18 key CST principles in a standardised, person-centred and effective manner and practice delivering the treatment content with peers.
Will I have a chance to provide feedback after the training?
How do I prepare for CST facilitator training? What do I need to bring?
The training organiser will provide details about the location, start and finish times and catering arrangements. Please bring a pen and notebook, all other learning materials will be provided. One should arrange transport, accommodation and refreshments if required. If you are planning to deliver a CST treatment shortly after your training, you will need a CST manual. Please check whether manuals are available for purchase at the training and order them in advance. Alternatively, visit https://hawkerpublications.co.uk/ to order your manual in hard copy or digital format.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes, upon completion of all learning activities an electronic certificate will be emailed to you.
How do I start CST in my community or professional setting?
Planning to start a new group can take time and effort. A number of resources to support with setting up a program can be found by clicking the button below.
Yes, all participants will be provided a link for an evaluation to provide feedback about the CST facilitator training.
