Top 11 Intervention Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for an intervention specialist in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and knowledge of best practices. They also show employers that the individual has taken the time to gain specialized training and knowledge in their field, which can be beneficial when competing with other applicants. Employers may also use certifications as a way to screen potential candidates, as having a certification can show that the individual is qualified for the position and will be able to handle its responsibilities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Intervention Specialists and explain how they can help advance an intervention specialist's career.

What are Intervention Specialist Certifications?

Intervention specialist certification is a type of professional certification for educators who specialize in working with students who have special needs. The certification is typically provided by the state's department of education and can be obtained through a combination of coursework, experience, and examination.

Intervention specialist certification is designed to give educators the skills they need to work with students who have special needs. This includes identifying individual needs, developing individualized educational plans (IEPs), and providing instruction and support tailored to meet those needs. With this knowledge, intervention specialists are able to better assess student progress, create more effective interventions, and provide necessary support services.

The primary benefit of intervention specialist certification is that it provides educators with a deeper understanding of how to best serve students with special needs. Through specialized training, intervention specialists are able to better identify areas where students may require additional assistance or support. Additionally, having an official certification confirms that an educator has the necessary qualifications to provide effective instruction for these students. Ultimately, this ensures that all students receive the quality education they deserve regardless of their individual challenges or disabilities.

Pro Tip: When looking into intervention specialist certification, be sure to research the requirements for the specific state you are in. Each state has its own set of qualifications and requirements for certification, so it is important to make sure you understand them before beginning your certification process.

Related: What does an Intervention Specialist do?

Top 11 Intervention Specialist Certifications

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

1. Certified Addiction Professional (CAP)

Certified Addiction Professional (CAP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals in the addiction field who have demonstrated expertise and knowledge in their field. The CAP credential is granted by the National Association of Addiction Professionals (NAADAC).

The CAP credential requires applicants to demonstrate mastery of core competencies, including assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, counseling, case management, client education and professional ethics. In addition to these core competencies, applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of specific areas related to addiction such as pharmacology, co-occurring disorders, family dynamics and recovery support services.

To become certified as a CAP, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements which include having an active license or certification in an addiction-related profession; at least two years of experience working with individuals with substance use disorders; completion of at least 45 hours of continuing education; and passing the NAADAC Certified Addiction Professional exam.

The cost for the CAP certification exam is $225 for NAADAC members and $325 for non-members. The exam fee includes access to study materials and practice exams. It typically takes about three months from application submission until the results are released.

2. Board Certified Interventionist (BCI)

A Board Certified Interventionist (BCI) is a professional who has been certified by the Association of Intervention Specialists (AIS) to provide intervention services to individuals and families affected by addiction, mental health issues, or other behavioral health issues. BCIs are trained in evidence-based practices and specialize in helping clients identify their needs and develop strategies for recovery. BCIs work with clients to create an individualized treatment plan that addresses the client's specific needs.

In order to become a Board Certified Interventionist, applicants must have at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related field. They must also complete an AIS-approved training program that includes at least 120 hours of instruction on topics such as motivational interviewing, family dynamics, crisis management, and ethical considerations. Applicants must also pass a written examination administered by the AIS.

The cost of becoming a Board Certified Interventionist varies depending on the training program chosen and any additional fees associated with taking the examination. Generally speaking, it can take between six months and two years to become board certified.

Once certified, BCIs are able to provide services such as assessments of individuals' substance use patterns; development of individualized treatment plans; coordination of care among multiple providers; support for family members; crisis intervention; and referrals to appropriate resources.

3. Certified Clinical Intervention Specialist (CCIS)

A Certified Clinical Intervention Specialist (CCIS) is a professional who specializes in providing interventions for individuals struggling with addiction and mental health issues. The CCIS credential is awarded by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), a nonprofit organization that sets standards for substance use disorder professionals around the world.

The CCIS certification requires applicants to have a minimum of one year of supervised experience working in the field, as well as completion of an IC&RC-approved training program. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by IC&RC.

The cost of obtaining the CCIS certification varies depending on the particular training program chosen, but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. The exam fee is separate and costs approximately $150. It usually takes between three and six months to complete all requirements for the certification, depending on how quickly you can obtain your supervised experience hours and complete your training program.

4. Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist (CCIS)

A Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist (CCIS) is a professional who has specialized training in crisis intervention, providing support to individuals and families in times of distress. This certification is designed to help professionals better recognize and respond to crises, such as those related to mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence, or suicide.

The CCIS certification requires completion of a 40-hour course that includes classroom instruction as well as field experience with a qualified supervisor. The course covers topics such as crisis assessment and intervention strategies, communication skills for working with people in crisis, understanding the dynamics of trauma and abuse, and ethical considerations for working with clients in crisis.

To become certified as a CCIS you must complete the 40-hour course and pass an exam administered by the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). The cost of the course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1000.

5. National Certified Counselor (NCC)

National Certified Counselor (NCC) is a professional certification for counselors that demonstrates a mastery of counseling knowledge and skills. The NCC credential is awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), which is the largest national organization dedicated to credentialing counselors.

In order to become an NCC, applicants must hold at least a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution, have completed 3,000 hours of post-master’s supervised clinical experience, and have passed the National Counselor Examination (NCE). Applicants must also meet additional requirements related to continuing education and professional ethics.

It typically takes between one and two years to complete all of the necessary requirements for the NCC credential. Once all of the required steps have been completed, applicants can submit their application to NBCC for review.

The cost of becoming an NCC varies depending on the individual's situation. The application fee is $195, plus any additional fees associated with taking the NCE exam or completing continuing education courses.

6. Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who has obtained a state license to practice counseling. They provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, and groups in order to help them cope with emotional and psychological issues. LPCs are qualified to diagnose and treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and personality disorders.

In order to become an LPC, you must complete a master’s degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited university or college. After completing the degree program, you must also pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE). The NCE is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover areas such as human growth and development, assessment and diagnosis of mental health disorders, treatment planning and interventions, professional ethics, group counseling techniques, research methods in counseling psychology, multicultural counseling practices, etc.

Once you have passed the NCE exam you must then apply for licensure with your state board of professional counselors. Each state has its own requirements for licensure which may include additional exams or coursework. In addition to passing the NCE exam and meeting all other state requirements for licensure, applicants must also complete 3 years of supervised clinical experience before they can be licensed as an LPC.

The cost of becoming an LPC will vary depending on factors such as where you live and what type of degree program you choose to pursue. Generally speaking however it is estimated that becoming an LPC will cost approximately $20-30k including tuition costs for a master’s degree program plus fees associated with taking the NCE exam and applying for licensure.

7. Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)

A Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) is a professional who has been trained and certified to provide counseling services for individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. The CSAC credential is awarded by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), a global organization that sets standards for addiction professionals.

In order to become a CSAC, one must complete an IC&RC-approved education program, pass an IC&RC exam, and obtain relevant work experience in the field. Depending on the specific requirements of the program, it may take anywhere from two to four years to complete all of these steps.

The cost of becoming a CSAC varies depending on the state, but typically includes fees for educational programs and exams as well as any required continuing education credits. In addition, applicants may need to pay additional fees for background checks or other administrative costs.

Once certified, CSACs must renew their credentials every two years by completing continuing education courses and passing an IC&RC exam. They must also abide by ethical codes of conduct set forth by the IC&RC in order to maintain their certification status.

8. Master Addiction Counselor (MAC)

Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved the highest level of training and experience in the field of addiction counseling. It is designed to recognize those who have gone beyond the traditional educational requirements for addiction counselors and have demonstrated mastery in the field.

In order to become certified as a Master Addiction Counselor, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of full-time experience as an addiction counselor, a master’s degree in psychology or related field, completion of additional coursework in addiction counseling, and passage of the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCCAP) examination.

The NCCAP exam is offered twice a year and consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral exam. The written portion consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, ethics, and other relevant topics. The oral portion consists of role-plays that assess an applicant’s ability to interact with clients in various situations.

The cost for taking the NCCAP exam varies depending on where you take it; however, most test centers charge around $300 - $400 for both parts combined. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining continuing education credits or completing other requirements necessary to maintain certification status.

Overall, becoming a Master Addiction Counselor is an intensive process that requires dedication and commitment from applicants. However, those who are successful will gain recognition as one of the most qualified professionals in their field and will be rewarded with increased job opportunities and higher salaries than those without this certification.

9. International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification

The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification is a voluntary certification that recognizes individuals who have met certain standards of practice in the field of substance use disorder counseling. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a counselor’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of addiction counseling.

In order to obtain IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of two years of supervised work experience in the field, completing at least 150 hours of specialized training related to substance use disorders, and passing an examination. Depending on the state or country where certification is sought, additional requirements may apply.

To get IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification, applicants must submit an application to their local IC&RC Board or Affiliate along with all required documentation. Applicants will then be notified when they are approved for testing. Once approved for testing, applicants must register for and pass the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor Examination.

The cost of IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor Certification varies depending on the state or country where certification is sought. Generally speaking, it can range from $100-$500 USD. The entire process typically takes anywhere from 6-12 months to complete.

10. National Association of Social Workers Clinical Social Work Certification

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Clinical Social Work Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the specialized knowledge, skills, and experience of social workers who have met the standards established by the NASW. The certification is intended to demonstrate to employers, clients, and other stakeholders that a social worker has achieved a level of expertise in clinical social work practice.

To be eligible for the NASW Clinical Social Work Certification, an individual must have at least two years of post-Master’s degree supervised clinical experience in social work; hold a current license or certificate as a clinical social worker in their state; and meet additional requirements set by the NASW.

It generally takes up to six months from the time an individual submits their application to receive their certification. During this period, applicants are required to complete an online examination and submit additional documentation verifying their qualifications for the program.

The cost of applying for the NASW Clinical Social Work Certification is $350 for members of the NASW and $450 for non-members. This fee covers both the initial application processing fee as well as any subsequent fees associated with taking and passing the online examination.

11. Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S)

A Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor (RPT-S) is a mental health professional who has been specially trained in the use of play therapy to help children and adolescents. The RPT-S designation is awarded by the Association for Play Therapy (APT), an international organization dedicated to promoting ethical, competent, and effective play therapy services.

In order to become an RPT-S, individuals must first meet the qualifications of being a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). This includes having completed at least 500 hours of supervised play therapy experience, as well as 45 hours of postgraduate coursework in play therapy theory and practice. After meeting these requirements, individuals can then apply for the RPT-S credential through APT.

The process of becoming an RPT-S typically takes between one and two years to complete, depending on the individual’s background and experience level. In addition to completing the required coursework and supervised experience hours, applicants must also pass a written examination administered by APT.

The cost for becoming an RPT-S varies depending on factors such as training program costs and exam fees. Generally speaking, however, it is estimated that the total cost for becoming an RPT-S ranges from $2,000-$3,500 USD.

Do You Really Need a Intervention Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends largely on your individual circumstances and goals. If you want to work in the field of intervention, then a certificate may be beneficial, as it can give you an edge in the job market. A certificate can also provide you with a greater understanding of the principles and practices of intervention, which could help you become more effective when working with clients.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the field or have experience that is sufficient for the position, then a certificate may not be necessary. However, depending on your employer’s requirements and expectations, they may require a certain level of certification or education before they hire you. In this case, obtaining a certificate could be beneficial as it would demonstrate your commitment to the profession and increase your chances of being hired.

Overall, an intervention specialist certificate can be beneficial if it is necessary for employment or if it will further improve your knowledge and skills in the field. Ultimately, whether or not to pursue a certificate should be based on your individual goals and needs.

Related: Intervention Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Intervention Specialist Certifications

1. How do I become an intervention specialist?

Answer: To become an intervention specialist, you must first have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology or social work. After completing your undergraduate degree, you will need to complete additional coursework and/or certification programs specific to the area of intervention that you wish to specialize in.

2. Is there a national certification for intervention specialists?

Answer: Yes, there is a national certification for intervention specialists offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). This certification requires applicants to pass an exam and meet certain educational requirements.

3. What type of job can I get with an intervention specialist certification?

Answer: With an intervention specialist certification, you may be able to find employment as a counselor, social worker, or even school psychologist depending on the type of specialty that you have chosen.

4. How long does it take to get certified as an intervention specialist?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as an intervention specialist will vary depending on the individual’s background and the specific requirements of their chosen specialty. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months up to two years to complete all necessary coursework and obtain certification.

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

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require ongoing professional development activities such as attending conferences or taking courses in order to maintain your certification status.