@JessicaL in my experience, I found a company that was willing to hire me and pay for the certifications based on my 4 years as a NS Admin. My prior job just didn't require I get certified so I didn't need them, however, the new job offered to pay for them/any training needed because their clients like working people with them. That may be an option if the company's really short handed on a consultant or admin.

totally agree - the certification is a formality and does not necessarily mean one candidate is more qualified vs. another