N a t i o n a l A s s o c i a t i o n o f F o r e n s i c C o u n s e l o r s
H o n e s t y - C o m p e t e n c y - I n t e g r i t y
NCCA Accredited
|
N a t i o n a l A s s o c i a t i o n o f F o r e n s i c C o u n s e l o r s
H o n e s t y - C o m p e t e n c y - I n t e g r i t y
|
|
About the NAFC and Certification
Who is the NAFC? NAFC was founded by Dr. Francis J. Deisler, a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in order to develop an identifiable, competent workforce to counsel and treat criminal offenders in order to reduce recidivism. Dr. Deisler originated the name "Forensic Counselor" to identify those clinicians that are competent. Dr. Deisler also recognized that no standards or guidelines to treat and counsel offenders were existent. The very first project Dr. Deisler gave the newly formed NAFC was to develop standards and guidelines. Today, the National Association of Forensic Counselors (NAFC) and its certification commission The American College of Certified Forensic Counselors (ACCFC) is the largest independent Credentialing Board in the U.S. representing the forensic counselor. The NAFC was established in 1994 to establish post graduate standards and professional responsibility in the very specialized area of criminal justice counseling and evaluation. The development of standards of practice, clinical guidelines, and the establishment of a valid certification program are efforts NAFC and ACCFC have made to enhance delivery of safe and effective treatment of offenders in both civil and criminal cases, improve communication, between the clinician and the justice system as well as for the protection of the public. NAFC is a non-profit corporation federally tax exempt under section 501(C) 6.
Certification is the process which validates, based on predetermined standards, an individual’s qualifications and knowledge to practice in a defined knowledge area. The certified practitioner from the NAFC and ACCFC qualifies as an expert witness under the Federal Rules of Procedure sect. 702 pertaining to expert witnesses. The NAFC and ACCFC certification programs are designed to: establish the body of knowledge necessary for certification, test through written examination, the common body of knowledge necessary to deliver counseling, evaluation, examination and forensic services to clients, attorneys and the civil/criminal justice system. The NAFC and ACCFC currently have certification programs in place for forensic counselors, and domestic violence counselor.
Certification creates an identifiable workforce to which the criminal justice system can refer. Certification offers the opportunity to gain recognition from peers, other professionals, administrators, the court systems, probation/parole departments, corrections, law enforcement and the public for your achievement as a knowledgeable professional in the field of forensic counseling and evaluation, examination, etc. Becoming certified can mean a broader range of job opportunities, provide job mobility, and in some cases promotion and monetary gain. Some organizations may use certification to determine staff privileges or eligibility for reimbursement. Further, many companies, agencies, courts, etc. may pay for your certification and renewals.
Any licensed Mental Health clinician, i.e., nurse, psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, professional counselor, addictions counselor is eligible as well as domestic violence and sexual abuse counselors. Any correctional officer or employee, law enforcement personnel, jail/detention personnel, or probation/parole agent, is also eligible and may apply. The NAFC and ACCFC recommend that candidates have at least two years experience in working with offenders or ex-offenders prior to sitting for the certification examination.
Certification is renewed annually on the member’s anniversary date. Renewal cost is $125.00 annually, and requires 20 (twenty) CEU's per year. Two year renewals are available.
Professional Certificate Suitable for Framing · National Credential & Recognition · The “Forensic Therapist” Magazine · Member Retirement Plans available · Life and Health Insurance at discount rates · NAFC MasterCard (subject to credit approval) · Professional Liability Insurance at Group Rates, as low as $99.00 per year · Regional Workshops and Seminars at reduced rates · Group Auto/Homeowners insurance at discounted rates · Free listing of services on the web
The NAFC’s Board of Governors, consisting of probation officers, mental health counselors, psychiatrists, addictions counselors, judges, psychologists and social workers recognize that the highest of professionals and ethical standards are absolutely critical to pursuit of excellence. The Board reserves the right to suspend or revoke a certification if, in its judgment, a member has violated such standards. |