Full course description
Alternatives for Families: A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (AF-CBT) is a trauma-informed, evidence-based treatment (EBT) designed to enhance the relationships between children and their caregivers. Rooted in cognitive-behavioral and family-systems principles, AF-CBT targets families experiencing frequent conflict, the use of physical discipline or force, child physical abuse, and child behavior problems.
AF-CBT is appropriate for use in a variety of mental health, child welfare, and family service settings, particularly when addressing family violence, trauma exposure, or behavioral challenges.
Who Is Eligible to Take This Course?
You are eligible for this AF-CBT training if you are a clinician with a master’s degree or greater in a mental health field and you have or will soon have a role working with families.
AF-CBT Training Sequence
To be fully trained in AF-CBT, you must complete the three-part training program in sequence, which is based on the "learning community" model:
- Part 1: Foundations of AF-CBT
Complete the free, 2.5-hour asynchronous webinar through the NCTSN Learning Center.
- Part 2: Professional Skills Training
Complete the 15-hour asynchronous course focused on applying AF-CBT in clinical practice.
- Part 3: AF-CBT Consultation Calls with Experts in the Field
After completing Part 2, participants receive instructions to enroll in monthly consultation calls with AF-CBT experts. Additional details are provided at the end of of this course and on the AF-CBT website.
About This Course
This course, "Part 2: Professional Skills Training," equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to apply AF-CBT in clinical practice. Through structured modules on key clinical content, participants will learn how to engage families, reduce high conflict and coercive interactions, and promote emotional regulation, communication, problem-solving, and positive parenting strategies.
Payment for "Part 2: Professional Skills Training" covers all three parts of the AF-CBT Learning Community. Access to this course includes expert instruction, a digital copy of the AF-CBT session guide, and AF-CBT resources like assessment scoring applications, handouts, and more.
Live Training Option
If you prefer to complete "Part 2: Professional Skills Training" as a live training with a certified AF-CBT trainer, please register on the AF-CBT website.