Top 10 Family Support Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a family support specialist in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to provide quality services to families. Certifications also allow employers to quickly assess the qualifications of a potential employee, as certifications show that an individual has met certain standards and can be trusted with the responsibility of providing family support services. Additionally, certifications can help a family support specialist stand out from other applicants, making them more attractive to potential employers. Finally, certifications can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities, as they indicate that an individual is qualified for positions of greater responsibility within the field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Family Support Specialists, and explains how they can contribute to a Family Support Specialist's career.

What are Family Support Specialist Certifications?

Family support specialist certification is a type of professional credential that recognizes individuals who possess specialized knowledge and skills related to providing family-centered services. This certification is offered through several organizations and is intended to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in the field of family support. It can be obtained through an assessment process that includes written exams, interviews, and portfolio reviews.

The primary purpose of becoming a certified family support specialist is to ensure that families receive the highest quality of care possible from qualified professionals. Individuals who hold this designation are typically well-versed in the latest research and approaches to helping families in need. They also have experience working with families from diverse backgrounds and can provide culturally appropriate services tailored to each unique situation.

Certified family support specialists are equipped with specific strategies for providing emotional, financial, educational, and social support for families in crisis or transition periods. They understand the dynamics of family relationships, including strengths and weaknesses, as well as how those dynamics can affect a family’s overall functioning. By having this knowledge, they are better able to assess needs and develop individualized plans for addressing issues such as poverty, substance abuse, mental illness, violence prevention, and other challenges faced by many families today.

In addition to providing direct services to clients, certified family support specialists may also serve as advocates for policy change at the local or state level. This could involve lobbying legislators on behalf of families in need or participating in community initiatives designed to improve conditions within their communities.

Overall, obtaining certification as a family support specialist can help individuals stand out from their peers when seeking employment opportunities or advancing their career goals. It also demonstrates a commitment to upholding ethical standards while delivering quality services that promote positive outcomes for families across all socio-economic statuses.

Pro Tip: When considering a family support specialist certification, be sure to research the certifying organization and review their requirements for certification. It is important to ensure that the certifying organization has a good reputation and established standards for certification. Additionally, be sure to evaluate the cost of the certification process, as well as any continuing education or recertification requirements.

Related: What does a Family Support Specialist do?

Top 10 Family Support Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Family Support Specialists today.

1. Certified Family Support Specialist (CFSS)

Certified Family Support Specialist (CFSS) is a professional certification program for individuals who provide family support services to families in need. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those working in the field of family support services. The CFSS program is offered through the National Association for Family Support Professionals (NAFSP).

To become a Certified Family Support Specialist, an individual must have at least three years of experience providing family support services and have completed a minimum of 40 hours of approved training. The training must include topics such as child development, family dynamics, crisis intervention, communication skills, and cultural competency. Upon completion of the training requirements, applicants must pass an exam administered by NAFSP.

The cost to become a Certified Family Support Specialist varies depending on the level of training required. Generally speaking, it can range from $400-$1000 or more depending on the number of courses taken and other related fees.

The process typically takes several months to complete depending on how quickly an individual completes their coursework and passes their exam. After successfully completing all requirements and passing the exam, individuals will be awarded their CFSS certification which is valid for three years.

2. Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE)

A Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of family life education. This credential is offered by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) and is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the field of family life education.

In order to become a CFLE, one must complete an approved program of study in family life education from an accredited college or university. The program must include at least 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) of coursework in family life education topics such as marriage and family relationships, parenting, human development across the lifespan, communication skills, conflict management, financial literacy, and other related topics. After completing this coursework, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by NCFR to receive their CFLE certification.

The cost for taking the CFLE exam varies depending on whether or not you are currently a member of NCFR. For non-members, the fee is $350 USD; for members it is $275 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining transcripts from your school or any other materials required to apply for the exam.

3. National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Family Support Certificate

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Family Support Certificate is a professional credential offered by the NASW to recognize social workers who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in providing family support services. This certificate is designed to help social workers develop their practice in this specialized field and provide recognition for those who have achieved mastery in the area.

The Family Support Certificate requires completion of a minimum of 15 hours of continuing education in family support topics, including but not limited to: family dynamics, communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, parenting skills, and crisis intervention. The curriculum must be approved by the NASW and must include at least one hour related to ethics.

It typically takes three months or longer to complete the requirements for the Family Support Certificate. The process begins with an application form that must be completed and submitted along with documentation of your continuing education activities. Once your application has been reviewed and approved by the NASW, you will receive an official certificate from the organization acknowledging your achievement.

The cost for obtaining the Family Support Certificate varies depending on how many continuing education credits you need to complete in order to qualify for the certificate. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $50-$100 per credit hour.

4. Certified Parent Educator (CPE)

A Certified Parent Educator (CPE) is a professional who has specialized training and experience in providing parent education and support. CPEs are certified by the National Association of Parent Education (NAPE). To become a Certified Parent Educator, individuals must complete an approved training program that meets NAPE’s standards. The training program typically consists of 10-20 hours of online or in-person instruction, depending on the provider. After completing the training program, individuals must pass an exam to become certified.

The cost for the certification depends on the provider and can range from $50-$500. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam or renewing your certification every two years.

In order to get certified as a CPE, you must first find an approved training program that meets NAPE’s standards. You can search for approved programs on NAPE’s website or contact your local school district for more information about available programs in your area. Once you have completed the training program, you must take and pass an online exam to become certified.

Once you have obtained your CPE certification, you will need to renew it every two years in order to maintain active status. Renewal fees vary depending on the provider but typically range from $50-$100 per renewal period.

5. Certified Professional Counselor (CPC)

Certified Professional Counselor (CPC) is a professional certification awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). It is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates a counselor’s commitment to excellence in the field of counseling. To become certified, counselors must meet educational, experience and examination requirements set forth by the NBCC.

It typically takes 3-5 years to complete all of the necessary requirements for CPC certification. The first step is to obtain a master's degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution. After completing your degree, you must then gain supervised clinical experience in counseling for at least 3,000 hours over two years. Once these requirements are met, you can take the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE) which is administered by the NBCC. Upon passing this exam, you will be awarded your CPC certification.

The cost of obtaining CPC certification varies depending on individual circumstances such as location and type of program chosen. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$8,000 including tuition and fees associated with obtaining a master's degree in counseling or related field as well as any fees associated with taking the NCMHCE exam.

6. Certified Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Specialist (CCABHS)

A Certified Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Specialist (CCABHS) is an individual who has been certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as having met the educational, experience, and examination requirements to provide specialized mental health services to children and adolescents. The CCABHS credential is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of child and adolescent behavioral health.

To become a CCABHS, individuals must first obtain a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited college or university. They must also complete at least two years of supervised clinical experience working with children and adolescents. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the certification exam offered by the NBCC. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a clinical skills portion.

The cost of becoming a CCABHS varies depending on where you live, but typically ranges from $300-$500 for application fees plus any additional costs associated with obtaining your master's degree or completing any required supervised clinical experience. It usually takes between one to three years to become certified after all requirements have been met.

7. National Certification for Family Life Educators (NCFLE)

National Certification for Family Life Educators (NCFLE) is a voluntary certification program offered by the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of competence in the field of family life education. NCFLE is open to all qualified individuals, regardless of their educational background or experience.

The process of obtaining NCFLE certification typically takes about one year. To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete an application packet that includes a professional resume, three letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors, and a written statement outlining the applicant's commitment to family life education. Once the application is approved, applicants must pass an online assessment that covers topics such as family dynamics, communication skills, and cultural diversity.

The cost for NCFLE certification varies depending on whether you are an NCFR member or non-member. For non-members, the total cost is $425 ($225 application fee plus $200 assessment fee). For members, the total cost is $375 ($175 application fee plus $200 assessment fee).

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification status by completing continuing education credits every two years. This can be done through attending conferences and workshops related to family life education or completing online courses offered through the NCFR website.

8. Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist (CCIS)

A Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist (CCIS) is an individual who has been trained to provide crisis intervention services in a variety of settings. This certification is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively respond to people in crisis, including those experiencing mental health issues, substance abuse, domestic violence, and other traumatic events. The CCIS certification requires completion of an approved course of study that focuses on crisis intervention theory, communication strategies, and best practices for responding to crises.

The length of time it takes to complete the CCIS certification varies depending on the program chosen. Most programs require at least 40 hours of instruction over several weeks or months, although some may require additional hours depending on the level of instruction desired.

To obtain a CCIS certification, individuals must complete an approved training program and pass a written exam. The cost of these programs varies depending on the provider and location but typically range from $500-$2,000 USD. Additionally, some states may require additional licensure or registration for those wishing to practice as a Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist.

9. Certified Trauma-Informed Care Practitioner (CTICP)

Certified Trauma-Informed Care Practitioner (CTICP) is a credential offered by the International Association of Trauma Professionals (IATP). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of trauma-informed care. The CTICP credential is intended to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in providing trauma-informed services, as well as an understanding of the principles and practices that support clients’ healing from traumatic experiences.

To be eligible for the CTICP credential, applicants must have at least two years of full-time professional experience in providing trauma-informed care services. In addition, applicants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of training in trauma-informed care topics, including trauma theory, assessment, intervention strategies, self-care practices, and ethical considerations.

The application process for the CTICP credential includes submission of an application packet with supporting documentation and payment of a $150 fee. Once approved, applicants receive their certificate within four weeks.

The cost for the CTICP credential is $150 USD. This fee covers processing costs and materials associated with obtaining the certification.

10. Master of Science in Family Studies or Human Services

The Master of Science in Family Studies or Human Services is a graduate-level degree program that prepares students for work in the fields of family studies and human services. This program usually takes two years to complete, depending on the school and the student's course load. It typically requires completion of core courses in family studies, human services, research methods, and social policy; elective courses related to the student's area of interest; and a thesis or capstone project.

To get a Master of Science in Family Studies or Human Services, applicants must have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. They may also need to submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores. Depending on the school, they may also need to provide evidence of relevant professional experience.

The cost of obtaining a Master of Science in Family Studies or Human Services varies by institution. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $20,000-$50,000 for two years of study. Additional fees such as books and supplies can add up quickly as well.

Do You Really Need a Family Support Specialist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Family Support Specialist Certificate depends on your individual goals, career aspirations, and current job prospects. There are many advantages to having a Family Support Specialist Certificate, such as expanding your knowledge and understanding of family dynamics, developing specialized skills related to working with families, and gaining recognition in the field.

The Family Support Specialist Certificate provides an opportunity to learn about the diverse needs of families, including those facing challenges due to poverty, mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and other issues. This certificate will provide you with the necessary background in order to understand how best to support families in need. Additionally, by obtaining this certificate you will gain a better understanding of the various roles played by family members and their importance in providing support for each other. You will also gain insight into the different approaches used to create effective strategies for helping families cope with difficult situations.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a family support specialist then obtaining this certification may be beneficial for your career. It can open doors to new opportunities within the field of family services and make you more competitive when applying for jobs. Additionally, employers may view your certification as evidence that you are qualified for positions requiring specialized knowledge on family dynamics.

Ultimately it is up to you whether or not you decide to pursue this certification. If you feel that it will help advance your career goals then it could be well worth investing in obtaining this certificate.

Related: Family Support Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Family Support Specialist Certifications

Q1. What is a Family Support Specialist Certification?

A1. A Family Support Specialist Certification is a credential that shows expertise in providing support to families facing challenges in their lives. It requires specialized training, education, and experience to earn the certification.

Q2. How do I become a Certified Family Support Specialist?

A2. To become a Certified Family Support Specialist, you must complete approved coursework, meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam, and have at least two years of experience working with families in a professional capacity.

Q3. How long does it take to get certified?

A3. The time frame for becoming certified varies depending on the individual's level of preparation and experience but it typically takes 6-12 months to complete all of the necessary steps for certification.

Q4. What are the benefits of having a Family Support Specialist Certification?

A4: A Certified Family Support Specialist can offer their clients more effective assistance due to their increased knowledge and expertise in this field. Additionally, having this credential may also lead to greater job opportunities or higher wages/salaries within family support organizations or other related fields.

Q5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

A5: Yes, Certified Family Support Specialists must complete continuing education credits each year in order to maintain their certification status.