Forensic Counselor Certification

Forensic counselors work in the criminal justice system.

A forensic counselor provides mental health and substance abuse counseling services within the legal and criminal justice systems. Counseling may relate to parole, probation, victim assistance, law enforcement or expert evaluation of situations, such as family settings. Forensic counselor certification is available through the American College of Certified Forensic Counselors (ACCFC) or the American College of Forensic Examiners International (ACFEI).

What is Certification?

Forensic counselor certification is a process to validate, based on preset standards, a person's qualifications and knowledge to practice in the field of forensic counseling.

Purpose

According to the National Association of Forensic Counselors, certification serves the purpose of improving treatment of offenders in civil and criminal cases, improving communication between the counselor and the justice system and protecting the public. Certifying organizations provide standards of practice and clinical guidelines for the safe and effective treatment of offenders.

Why Certify?

Many employers prefer certified counselors, which can lead to more job opportunities and job mobility. Certification may also be a factor in promotions and higher salaries.

ACCFC

The ACCFC is the certification commission of the National Association of Forensic Counselors (NAFC). To become a Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor, requires a minimum of two years experience in forensic counseling, a master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, addictions or education and a state license for counseling.

Non-clinical certification (Certified Forensic Counselor) is available for someone who has less than a master's degree or does not otherwise meet the clinical certification requirements.

Both certifications require passing a written exam. Certifications are renewed each year, requiring a recertification fee and maintaining a valid state license.

ACFEI

The ACFEI offers certification as an Accredited Forensic Counselor (AFC). Certification requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree, at least three years of professional experience and passing a detailed exam after completing one of ACFEI's certification review courses offered at conference or online.

To maintain certification requires membership in ACFEI and a minimum of 15 hours of related continuing education each year.

References

• National Association of Forensic Counselors: Certifications
• American College of Forensic Examiners International: Application for Accredited Forensic Counselor
• National Association of Forensic Counselors: About the NAFC and Certification