While certification as a prevention specialist may seem daunting to some, this Virtual Learning Community will provide participants with an understanding of the prevention certification process: why it exists, who gives it, and what the minimum requirements are. The session will also address the need to increase the prevention Latino workforce nationwide to better serve Hispanic/Latino communities. The dialogue will include a first-hand account of the process and steps of a Hispanic/ Latino certified prevention Specialist who will share the experience of attaining the prevention certification. Besides, suggestions for the most effective way to prepare for the certification examination will be discussed. Also, we will provide some free resources and scholarships that may be available to those pursuing the prevention certification in the next four years.
Ivette A. Torres, MEd., M.S., Former Associate Director for Consumer Affairs at the federal Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Sandra Del Sesto, M.Ed., ACPS,
Julie Stevens, MPS, ACPS, ICPS, and
Gyna Juarez, MPA, ACPS, ICPS
