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APW Course System

The Affolter Model® Foundation Course is the core of the program and consists of three modules. Advanced courses build on the knowledge and skills acquired in these modules, both in theory and practice. For those new to the model, a seminar can serve as a first introduction.
How Our Course System Works

What matters most to us

Professionals are increasingly recognizing the value of the Affolter Developmental Model and its derived “Guiding” method. Many Specialists , as well as relatives , have already acquired the necessary skills to apply it in their daily lives.We offer a diverse, practice-oriented program in which everyone can find something of interest. Specialist groups within APW develop the course content for the Affolter Model® and its practical implementation. APW provides instructors with the necessary teaching materials and ensures the quality of instruction through established regulations and guidelines. APW certifies all Affolter Model® courses,which are offered at various locations (clinics, schools) in German, French, and English.

Practice-oriented learning

Theoretical content is always explored through concrete questions and case studies (both video and live) and is applied and evaluated in practice.

Authentic approach

APW-recognized instructors share knowledge based on many years of experience and practical application. All instructors hold the required Affolter Model® certification in accordance with our quality standards.

Individual needs

Your preferences are taken into account and, wherever possible, incorporated into the course program.

The different modules

Affolter Model® Foundation Course

The six-week Affolter Model® Foundation Course is offered in three modules. These modules build on one another and can, depending on availability, be attended at different course locations. All modules of the Foundation Course are taught by APW-recognized instructors . Practical application plays a central role, and you will receive expert support from experienced course assistants. Select your course type to learn more:

Introductory Module

Basic Module

Certification Module

Introductory Module

  • Do you want to learn more about the Affolter Model®?
  • Do you want to better understand the behavior of affected individuals?
  • Do you want to experience what it feels like to work with individuals using the Affolter Model®?
  • Are you working in a therapeutic, nursing, or (social) educational profession?
  • Do you primarily work with a family member or another affected person? Are you a relative or support person?

If so, the Introductory Module is for you. In this five-day module, you will learn the fundamentals of the Affolter Model®. Through self-experimenting and seminars, you will explore strategies for gathering information and gain initial hands-on experience with the intervention (“Guiding”) in small groups. You will be supported throughout by an APW-recognized instructor and their assistants.

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Basic Module

  • Do you work in special education, education, psychology, healthcare, or social services and want to apply the Affolter Model® competently in your daily practice?
  • Are you a relative or support person of someone with disorders of perception?
  • Do you want to acquire the knowledge offered and apply it in your practical daily life?
  • Do you want to better assess the developmental level of affected individuals and draw appropriate conclusions for intervention?
  • Do you wish to meet the requirements for qualification as a therapist in the Affolter Model®?
If so, you should be prepared to invest time. In the three course weeks of the Foundation Module, you will engage intensively with both theoretical and practical aspects of the model. During this period, you should regularly work with individuals with disorders of perception and be able to document your practice with video recordings. Prerequisite: Completion of an APW-recognized Introductory Module.
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Certification Module

You’re almost there! After successfully completing the Foundation Module, you can complete the full course with the two-week Certification Module. This module allows you to deepen your knowledge and skills while connecting them with additional theoretical and practical aspects. During the final week, you will have the opportunity to complete a teaching–learning assessment, fulfilling the requirements to earn the additional qualification as an APW-recognized therapist in the Affolter Model®.
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Advanced Courses

  • Have you already completed a Foundation Course and want to update and deepen your knowledge?
  • Are you curious about the Affolter Model® perspective on specific topics?
  • Do you want to maintain your APW-recognized additional qualification in the Affolter Model®?

Course Content

If so, the Advanced Courses are the right choice for you. Within the framework of the Affolter Model®, the following focus areas are covered, among others:

  • Aspects of language, communication, and social interaction
  • Bimanual coordination and body schema
  • Clinical reasoning
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Practical, diverse and quality-assured

Seminars

APW-recognized instructors offer one- to three-day seminars on a variety of topics. These events can also be requested as in-house sessions, with content tailored to your needs. Contact us, and we will connect you with a suitable instructor.

  • Have you always wanted to know what the Affolter Model® is?
  • Are you interested in the introductory module and would like to get a first impression of the Affolter Model®?
  • Are you a parent or family member of someone affected and want to learn more about disorders of perception?
  • Do you want to know what the Affolter Model® has to say on a specific topic (e.g., disorders of perception in infants and toddlers)?

Seminar Content

These are just some of the reasons to attend a seminar on the Affolter Model® APW-recognized instructors offer one- to three-day seminars on a variety of topics. These seminars provide an insight into the therapy and developmental model and offer an opportunity for a first introduction.

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