Who is the NAFC?
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 representing the forensic counselor in the U.S. The NAFC was established in 1994 to establish post-graduate standards and professional responsibility in the very specialized area of criminal justice evaluation and counseling. The development of standards of practice, clinical guidelines, and the establishment of a valid certification program are the efforts NAFC and ACCFC have made to enhance delivery of safe and effective treatment of offenders in both civil and criminal cases and improve communication between the clinician and the justice system as well as protect the public. NAFC is a non-profit corporation federally tax exempt under section 501(C) 6.
Certification is the process based on predetermined standards, which validates an individual’s qualifications and knowledge to practice in a defined area of knowledge.
The certified practitioner from the NAFC and ACCFC qualifies as an expert witness under the Federal Rules of Procedure, Section 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, and discern the common body of knowledge necessary to deliver evaluation, examination and forensic services, and counseling to clients, attorneys, and the civil/criminal justice system.
The NAFC and ACCFC currently have certification programs in place for forensic and domestic violence counselors.
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 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., a nurse, psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or professional counselor is eligible for certification as well as domestic violence and substance 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 $90.00 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 · 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, judges, psychologists and social workers recognize that the highest levels of professionals and ethical standards are absolutely critical to the pursuit of excellence. The Board reserves the right to suspend or revoke a certification if, in its judgment, a member has violated such standards.
