International Caregivers Association (ICA)

What International Caregivers Association (ICA) does

The International Caregivers Association (ICA) is a privately held membership-based association founded in 2003 and headquartered in Mapleton, Maine, that delivers dementia and Alzheimer's care training, certification, and consulting built around a proprietary methodology called the Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model. The TDI Model is a systems-based framework developed by founder Dr. Ethelle Lord that combines Transactional Analysis (Eric Berne), Lord's Theory on the psychology of the dementia brain, and a structured Dementia Coach role to operationalize two-way compassionate communication, retained-ability focus, and standardized family-caregiver partnerships. ICA's product surface includes the Fundamentals of TDI course (CTDI, $335), the Advanced TDI Train-the-Trainer program (ATDIT, $3,400), 1:1 consulting with Dr. Lord ($125-$725 per session), an annual Fellow membership ($145/yr), the TEAM ME team-optimization add-on, and a curated Partner Marketplace that resells third-party wellness products including Memory Lane TV and supplement brands.

ICA monetizes through a hybrid B2B/B2C motion: self-serve LMS enrollment for individual caregivers and professionals, sales-assisted organizational licensing for senior care and adult day care operators, and a content-led funnel anchored by The Brain & Beyond podcast and the ICA Informer e-newspaper. Customers span three segments — senior care organizations (memory care, assisted living, adult day care, home health), professional caregivers seeking credentials, and family/unpaid caregivers seeking coaching — with named enterprise engagements including The Carousel Adult Day Care Center (Kansas City, MO, January 2025 flagship licensee) and Schooner Memory Care Community (Maine). ICA reports advisory and customer presence in the U.S., Canada, the Netherlands, Ireland, the U.K., Australia, and the Bahamas, and the organization operates on a bootstrapped basis with 12 employees and no disclosed external funding.

Name

International Caregivers Association (ICA)

Legal name

International Caregivers Association, LLC

Website

https://icacares.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2003

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

International Caregivers Association (ICA) is a Maine-based, privately held association that delivers dementia care training, certification, and consulting built around its proprietary Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model, serving senior care organizations, professional caregivers, and family caregivers globally.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Dementia Care Training and Consulting

NAICS

Services for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities (62412), Services for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities (624120), Continuing Care Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly (6233), Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly (623312)

SIC

Services-Nursing & Personal Care Facilities (8050), Services-Specialty Outpatient Facilities, Nec (8093)

akta.pro primary industry

Dementia Companion & Engagement Care (HSABAEAA)

akta.pro secondary industries

Alzheimer’s & Dementia-Specific Adult Day Programs (HLADAIAC), Memory Care Units within Assisted Living Communities (HLADACAB), Memory Care Adult Day Programs (Dementia/Alzheimer’s) (HSABANAC)

Keywords

• Dementia care training
• Caregiver certification programs
• Dementia coaching services
• Memory care consulting
• Elder care education

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Operations, Others

Revenue model

1. Training & Certification Programs: Online on-demand courses in Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI). The Fundamentals of TDI Course (4 modules, ~4 hours) is priced at $335 per student. The Advanced TDI Train-the-Trainer (ATDIT) program is priced at $3,400. Volume/group pricing available upon inquiry. Graduates earn certified credit hours, diplomas, and credentials such as CTDI and ATDIT designations.
2. Professional Consulting & Coaching: Dr. Ethelle Lord provides paid consulting sessions: 30 minutes at $125 (or $325 on English site), 60 minutes at $230 (or $525 on English site), and 90 minutes at $325 (or $725 on English site). A free initial discovery session is offered. Consulting covers dementia care, management, nutrition, and personal coaching.
3. ICA Fellow Membership: Annual membership program (ICA Fellow) priced at $145/year providing access to content library, podcasts, blogs, webinars, member discounts on training and certifications (10% off), quarterly Zoom calls with leadership, and access to the ICA Jobs Bank. Complimentary one-year Fellow status is included with certain course completions.
4. Organizational TDI Implementation Programs: Custom consulting engagements for care organizations implementing the TDI Model, including Memory Care Assessment Study & Report Module, TDI Leadership Orientation, TDI Team Optimization, Marketing Support & Sales Services ($2,200/year), and Ongoing Program Management. Pricing determined based on initial discussion and organizational scope.
5. Partner Marketplace / Affiliate Referrals: ICA's Product Picks marketplace features third-party health and wellness products (ReZilient, BCPlus, Helvetia supplements, Memory Lane TV). While ICA states it receives no financial compensation or commissions for endorsements, the marketplace drives referral revenue through partner links. Memory Lane TV subscription: $75/year (individuals), $1,788/year (facilities) with ICA discount codes.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels6 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

ICA delivers the proprietary Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model through online certification courses (Fundamentals CFTDI and Advanced ATDIT Train-the-Trainer), paid consulting with Dr. Ethelle Lord, the ICA Fellow annual membership program, organizational TDI implementation engagements for care facilities, and a curated Partner Marketplace featuring dementia-friendly products from third-party providers.

Product overview

The International Caregivers Association (ICA) offers a unified training and certification platform centered on the Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model—a systems-based approach to dementia care. The core offering consists of the TDI Model framework, which includes certified Dementia Coach roles and structured family-professional partnerships. ICA provides multiple certification pathways including the Fundamentals of TDI Course (CFTDI) for foundational training and the Advanced TDI Train-the-Trainer Program (ATDIT) for instructor certification. Supporting services include consulting with Dr. Ethelle Lord, the ICA Fellow premium membership, and the ICA Content Hub delivering educational content. The ecosystem extends through the TEAM ME team optimization tool and the Brain & Beyond podcast series. Additionally, ICA operates a Partner Marketplace featuring curated products including Memory Lane TV, ReZilient, Blair Medical Group BCPlus, and Helvetia Performance supplements. The organization also offers specialized programs including the Dementia Connection Specialist (DCSCT) certification and the Dementia Connection Model methodology developed by Dr. Jennifer Stelter, all aligned with the TDI framework.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI): The proprietary systems-based model of dementia care developed by Dr. Ethelle Lord. A comprehensive approach that reframes dementia care as transactions—dynamic exchanges of emotion, need, and response between caregivers and care receivers.
• Dementia Intelligence
• The Brain & Beyond
• ICA Academy
• ICA Fellow Program

Products and services

• Transactional Dementia Intelligence (TDI) Model A systems-based dementia care methodology that reframes caregiving as transactional exchanges between caregivers and care receivers, integrating Transactional Analysis with dementia communication, the Dementia Coach role, a 6-hour shift model for CNAs paid as 8 hours, and formal family partnership structures. Licensed to care organizations for full operational implementation.
• Fundamentals of Transactional Dementia Intelligence (CFTDI) Course A four-module on-demand foundational certification course teaching the TDI framework and Lord's Theory for effective dementia communication. Approximately 4 hours of content with 24/7 worldwide access, earning 4 certified credit hours and the CTDI diploma. Priced at $335 per student with group discounts available.
• Advanced TDI Train-the-Trainer (ATDIT) Program An advanced three-module Master's-level certification program enabling professionals to become certified instructors in TDI communication and earn the ATDIT credential. Graduates can teach within organizations, academic institutions, or private practice. Priced at $3,400 USD per participant with annual recertification required.
• ICA Consulting Services Direct paid consulting with Dr. Ethelle Lord covering dementia care, management, nutritional consulting, dementia coaching, and family caregiving guidance. Sessions priced from $125 to $725 (or $325 to $725 on the English site) depending on length, with a free 30-minute initial discovery session offered.
• ICA Fellow Program Premium annual membership program launched in Q4 2024 offering access to ICA's library of blogs, podcasts, webinars, white papers, a 10% training discount, quarterly Zoom consultations with leadership, and access to the ICA Jobs Bank. Priced at $145 USD per year.
• Dementia Connection Specialist Certified Trainer (DCSCT) A seven-hour certification program introducing the Dementia Connection Model covering habilitation, sensory stimuli strategies, and cognitive behavioral theory application in dementia care. Designed for activity directors, CNAs, nurses, and other dementia care professionals seeking specialized training aligned with the TDI framework.
• ICA Partner Marketplace (Product Picks) A curated marketplace aggregating evidence-based nutritional and wellness products for dementia caregivers and persons living with dementia. Featured third-party offerings include Memory Lane TV (dementia-friendly music programming), ReZilient (mitochondrial support), Blair Medical Group's BCPlus (beta-caryophyllene endocannabinoid activator), and Helvetia Performance (spagyric supplements), with ICA-exclusive discount codes.

Quantifiable outcome

• 82% of unpaid caregivers experience anxiety, depression, and mental health challenges (cited by ICA from caregiver burnout research)
• +5 more outcomes

Named customers10 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature5 records

Partnerships

Nine partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and minor.

• The Carousel Adult Day Care CenterflagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2025The Carousel Adult Day Care Center (Kansas City, MO) partnered with ICA for full licensing of the TDI Model starting January 1, 2025. Dr. Karen Allen, Founder and Executive Director, is authorized to integrate the TDI Model's systems approach into the organization's daily operations. The partnership includes TDI Team Optimization and Team Me integration to reduce caregiver stress and enhance team cohesion. The Carousel serves adults with dementia, developmental disabilities, veterans, and individuals with traumatic brain injuries under a medical model adult day care program licensed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
• Alexis Baker / Bridgetown Music Therapy (Music with Alexis)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerAlexis Baker, board-certified music therapist and certified dementia practitioner, is featured on ICA's The Brain & Beyond podcast. Her virtual music engagement program (Music with Alexis) provides 24/7 on-demand therapeutic music sessions for memory care residents. ICA promotes her program to members with discount codes. The podcast interview (September 2024) covered dementia-friendly music programming, music entertainment vs. music engagement, and how activity directors can access quality music 24/7. Special offer: free 30-day trial via BridgetownMT.com.
• Dr. Jennifer Stelter / Dementia Connection Institute by NeuroEssencecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerDr. Jennifer Stelter, CEO of Dementia Connection Institute, is featured on ICA's The Brain & Beyond podcast (October 2024). Her Dementia Connection Model aligns with TDI's guiding principles, emphasizing non-pharmaceutical, sensory-based dementia care. Dr. Stelter serves as VP of ICA Education and contributes content on aromatherapy and multi-sensory approaches to dementia care. Her book 'The Busy Caregiver's Guide to Advanced Alzheimer Disease' won the IPPY Award for Health/Medicine/Nutrition.
• Dr. Hazel Szeto / ReZilient (Szetolife)coreGTM or Marketing PartnerDr. Hazel Szeto, Professor of Pharmacology at Weill Cornell Medical College and holder of 60 patents for amino acid combinations, developed ReZilient — a mitochondrial support supplement. ICA features ReZilient in its Partner Marketplace and promotes it to members. The Brain & Beyond podcast featured Dr. Szeto's research on mitochondrial health, neuro-transmitter biosynthesis, and anti-aging supplements. ICA members receive a 15% discount on 3+ jars using code Buy3.
• Blair Medical Group (Dr. Philip Blair, MD)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerBlair Medical Group, led by retired Army Colonel Dr. Philip Blair, provides BCPlus — an oral non-cannabis endocannabinoid system activator based on beta-caryophyllene. ICA's Product Picks marketplace features BCPlus for dementia caregivers to alleviate fatigue, burnout, and inflammation. ICA members receive 10% off with code ICA. Dr. Blair also contributes guest content to ICA on the endocannabinoid system and burnout prevention.
• Helvetia Performance / Secret Fire ApothecaryminorGTM or Marketing PartnerHelvetia Performance, led by Hugh Quennec (Swiss/Canadian entrepreneur), provides spagyric-based herbal supplements manufactured in Switzerland. Secret Fire Apothecary (Dennis Wiseman) supplies the alchemical expertise. ICA's Product Picks marketplace features Helvetia supplements for neural support, stamina, and immune function. ICA members receive 30% off first order. Featured on The Brain & Beyond podcast.
• Patrick Cawley / Keystone Elder LawminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPatrick Cawley, elder law attorney and CEO of Keystone Elder Law (November 2024 podcast guest), discussed proactive dementia care legal planning including durable power of attorney, advance healthcare directives, trusts, and Medicaid planning. His interview educated ICA's audience on elder law intersections with dementia care, supporting family caregiver clients.
• Patrick Bray (Pad) / Come Alive Success Coaching / TEAM MEcoreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerPatrick Bray (Pad), creator of TEAM ME archetype analysis tool and Director of Come Alive Success Coaching, leads the critical Team Formation phase of the TDI Model. His products and coaching services have been distributed to over 54 countries. Pad is an ICA faculty member providing leadership team optimization within the TDI Team Optimization Program. His work addresses team personality dynamics, role placement, and performance improvement.
• Dr. George Grant / Academy of Wellness (Toronto, Canada)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerDr. George Grant, Academy of Wellness, Toronto, Canada, contributed to ICA's content on Inner Voice Scans for caregiver well-being — fast, non-invasive vocal characteristic assessments that detect signs of stress, fatigue, or cognitive overload. Introduced as a preventive burnout detection tool within the broader TDI wellness framework.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Emerging players

• CareAcademy: CareAcademy is an online training platform serving home care agencies and family caregivers with state-approved certification programs. It is an emerging player in the caregiver training category ICA targets, with a more scalable tech-driven delivery model but less specialization in dementia communication specifically.
• Hilarity for Charity (HFC): HFC is a movement to activate the next generation of Alzheimer's caregivers, offering online resources, respite grants, and the HFC Brain App. It is an emerging player in the family caregiver segment ICA targets, with stronger celebrity-driven brand awareness but narrower professional training offerings.

Direct peers

• Positive Approach to Care (Teepa Snow): Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care is a leading dementia care training organization offering certifications, workshops, and an online community for family and professional caregivers. It is the most direct competitor to ICA's TDI Model, with a similarly founder-led brand, skills-focused curriculum, and B2B/B2C dual GTM targeting senior care operators.
• National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP): NCCDP is the leading US certification body for dementia practitioners (CDP credential), offering training to nurses, CNAs, and activity directors across senior care settings. ICA's CTDI and DCSCT certifications compete for the same professional credentialing wallet, making NCCDP a direct peer in the dementia certification category.
• AGE-u-cate Training Institute: AGE-u-cate develops and delivers dementia and eldercare training programs, including the Dementia Live and Compassionate Touch experiences used by senior care operators across the US. It is a direct peer offering turnkey organizational training and certification packages to the same senior living and adult day care buyers ICA targets.
• Second Wind Dreams: Second Wind Dreams runs the Dementia Friendly Business and Dementia Virtual Reality training programs, serving senior care facilities and corporate partners globally. It is a direct peer in the dementia experience-based training category, with a similar nonprofit association structure and B2B organizational licensing model.
• Dementiability (Dr. Gail Elliot): Dementiability Enterprises offers the DementiAbility Methods, Montessori-based dementia training programs, and workshops for senior care professionals. It is a direct peer in the dementia care methodology/training category with comparable founder-led branding and B2B workshop delivery.

Broad incumbents

• Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI): CPI is a long-established provider of workplace violence and behavior management training, including dementia-specific programs (Dementia Capable Care) widely adopted by nursing homes and hospitals. It competes with ICA for the same training budgets at senior care operators but offers a broader, more credentialed portfolio.
• Alzheimer's Association: The Alzheimer's Association is the largest US nonprofit advancing dementia research, advocacy, and care, operating a 24/7 helpline, training programs, and care consultation. While not a direct training competitor, it dwarfs ICA in brand recognition, donor funding, and content reach, and frequently partners with the same senior care facilities ICA targets.

Others

• Memory Lane TV: Memory Lane TV is a dementia-friendly music and engagement streaming platform featured in ICA's Partner Marketplace. It is a current product partner of ICA rather than a direct competitor, but represents the adjacent engagement-technology category that ICA refers buyers to as part of its ecosystem play.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/icacares

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about International Caregivers Association (ICA)