If you have thought about becoming a sleep consultant, you probably found many associations online. They promise credibility, legitimacy, and standards for your practice. But let me share a little secret: there is no official industry standard for sleep consultants. Not a single government on earth regulates this profession.
Surprising? Maybe.
What Do Sleep Consultant Associations Really Do?
If you do a quick search on Google, you may have seen names like:
- International Association of Child Sleep Consultants (IACSC)
- World Organization of Certified Sleep Consultants (WOCSC)
- Association of Professional Sleep Consultants (APSC)
Some associations claim to set standards, certify programs, and create networks. In reality, they are simply groups started by sleep consultants themselves. They charge fees, offer logos, and run some webinars. But they hold no official authority. Governments do not recognize their certifications, nor do medical bodies endorse their standards. The truth? These organizations create their own rules and then certify each other.
Do These Organizations Have Real Authority?
Not at all. Any person can become a sleep consultant without joining a single association. Just like breastfeeding consultants, sleep consultants do not need licenses or government-issued certificates. No association membership changes your legitimacy or your ability to practice.
You can literally print your own certificate if you like. It might look nice on your wall, but remember—there is no legal difference between your homemade certificate and the ones these associations provide.
So, Should You Join Any of These Associations?
The short answer: No.
The longer answer: Only if you truly want to. But do not join because you feel pressured or believe you must do it. Paying fees for a fancy logo does not make you more professional. It only makes your wallet lighter.
How Do You Actually Become a Sleep Consultant?
Great news—you probably already have relevant skills. Nurses, doulas, teachers, or even experienced parents can easily become sleep consultants. You can teach yourself for free using reputable sleep research online. Or, you can take an affordable short course from a some provider. Either way, you do not need to spend thousands of dollars or pay annual fees to associations.
Are These Associations Unnecessary?
They do not add legitimacy or improve your skills automatically. Be cautious of marketing claims promising “industry standards” or “official credentials.” None of these claims have legal backing.
Forget association pressure. Focus instead on learning real, science-based methods. Trustworthy information is available to you right now—no membership required. Your future clients will care about one thing: results. And results come from your skills and knowledge, not from a logo or a membership fee.
After all, your clients will hire you for your expertise, not because of an association badge.