FAQ's

NMSBC FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.  What is a Meditation Specialist?

A person who is competent in the science, theory and philosophy as well as the practice of focused awareness and mindfulness techniques.

2.  What does the training consist of to become a meditation specialist?

Two retreats focusing on both the  Science and Practice as well as support  from conference calls and optional seminars offered by the Center for Meditation Science. 

3.  Why opt for certification as a Meditation Specialist?
Meditation is now becoming recognized and more and more qualified individuals are needed to teach. The certification provides a standardization of competency that is needed.

4.  What will be the credential of a Meditation Specialist?
The NMSCB offers three Certifications:  Meditation Specialist I (MSI-BC)
 Clinical Meditation Specialist II (CMSII-BC
Advanced Practice Meditation Specialist III (APMSIII-BC). A description of the basic eligibility can be found under certification.

5.  Why did the NMSC Board decide to provide a national Certification Process ?
The board was created to ensure that there is no partiality among different schools of meditation and to standardize the criteria to establish competency.

6.  How can I get certified as a Meditation Specialist?
Take retreats 1 and 2 or their equivalent, teach  and sit for the exam and practicum.

7.  Why does initial training take over one year?

We have found that it takes at least a year to develop a personal practice and learn skills to be competent. 

8.  If I want to sit for the examination, what is a good timeline for me to have in mind after the initial training?
Within 6 months.

9.  I have been trained and teaching for several years, can I sit for the exam without taking retreat 1 and 2?
Yes, there is a reciprocity program where someone with experience and the scientific background  for meditation can opt out of the retreats.

10.  What can I use to prepare for Certification?

Retreats 1 and 2 prepare you for the core competencies required to obtain your board certification. However, you need to have an additional 150 hours of practice teaching before becoming certified.    

11. How long does the Certification process take?
Most students can get certified in one year.

12. Do I have to be a nurse or a health care provider to apply for the Meditation Specialist Certification?
No, however, you must have an interest in learning about the science.  Social workers, teachers from all backgrounds as well as health care professionals have successfully completed the course.

13. What continuing education courses can I use to count towards the continuing education requirement to apply for the different levels of certification?
There are many available through the Center for Meditation Science and the Himalayan Institute. Other programs can be used also with prior approval from the certification board.

14. How long is my Certification good for?                                                                
Three years from the time of certification.

15.  Where do I get my certification from?
The Center for Meditation Science.

16. Does the Center for Meditation Science offer courses on Holistic Health or related topics?
Yes, visit www.DrSusanTaylor.com

17. How often are the examinations offered?
Four weeks per year.  We open the online exam for one week each quarter.  The practicum is offered 2 times per year.

18. Can a person be certified as a Meditation Specialist I, II, III at the same time?
No, once someone has reached the second level, they no longer use the prior credential.

19. If I have questions concerning the test administration, whom should I contact?
Center for Meditation Science at 978.255.1379

20. I am ready to take the test when and where can I take it?
Fill out the necessary forms and someone will contact you within 10 days.

21. If I complete the entire retreats and application process except for the examination when does my application expire?
1 year from the completion of your last retreat or if you have applied for the examination 90 days after.

21. If I register for the examination and am unable to take it what are my options?
You have 1 week to complete the exam. IF you need to opt out, call the office.