Training
The initial training workshop is 2.5 days long and designed for clinical staff and supervisors who plan to implement A-CRA, CRA, and ACC with individuals and their families. The training uses a combination of lecture, Q&A, and demonstrations. After each demonstration, trainees are given the opportunity to practice what they have learned and receive feedback from the training team during the workshop.
In addition to the initial training workshop, several online training courses are also available to those pursuing certification. Courses include knowledge tests, research findings, tips for clinical supervision, ACC, and use of A-CRA with co-occurring problems.
Certification
There is a clinician and supervisor certification process for each treatment model. As clinicians and supervisors work toward certification in all procedures, they also participate in toll-free coaching calls twice per month. A key feature of the certification process is uploading digital session recordings to a secure website, which are then reviewed by model experts. Experts use a standardized coding manual to assess key components of procedures and general competency in the use of A-CRA, CRA, and ACC. Rapid model-fidelity feedback on trainees’ session recordings is provided in a positive and constructive manner and facilitates obtaining certification in the desired model.
An EBT Coordinator from Chestnut is assigned to each trainee to provide on-demand individualized assistance and support. Below is a sample of trainee comments on the helpfulness of their coordinator.
From a clinical supervisor in Arizona: Thank you all so much for your training, support, and help through the certification process. I am excited to be certified as a clinical supervisor in both A-CRA and ACC! The continual assistance and support has been great, and I look forward to continuing to help our staff here through the certification process and participating in the coaching and supervisor calls.
From a clinician in California: I really appreciate the time and care you provide for all of us undergoing the A-CRA and ACC certification. I want you all to know that I felt fully supported from the beginning, and I still feel that way today. There was always someone available to answer all of my questions, and I never felt like I was alone in this process. I am very proud of this accomplishment, and it is a wonderful feeling to be a part of this program. I am seeing first-hand the opportunities and client empowerment this program provides for our youth, their families, and our community, and it's amazing.
From a clinician in Connecticut: During my certification process, the team was greatly helpful to me and any question or concerns that I had were dealt with promptly.
From a clinician in Washington: Any time I sent an e-mail to Chestnut, it was always answered in a timely manner. If there was ever any clarification needed, it was followed up. It is obvious that Chestnut holds professionalism to a high level.
From a clinician/clinical supervisor in Virginia: The team has provided valuable support and assistance in learning the A-CRA and ACC models. I can see positive results already from the adolescents and families we are working with.
From a clinician/clinical supervisor in Missouri: I truly enjoyed the certification process. Initially, it was very stressful because I was responsible for getting certified as a clinician and as a supervisor (at the same time). However, I really feel like it was my EBT Coordinator's patience that got me through. It was a real pleasure working with her. She was always available for questions, as well as concerns... The trainings were very informative! Chestnut is definitely one of the most professional, caring, and patient groups I have ever worked with.