75-Hour Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Certification Training
Our 75-Hour Training is an accredited California State Dual Certification for Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence Counselors.
Completion of the 75-Hour Training is required for all direct-service staff and volunteer positions that work with survivors or who engage community members with violence prevention education.
Our training is also open to anyone seeking the certificate in order to work with survivors at another Rape Crisis Center or Domestic Violence organization, or for your own professional development.
Training Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be able to attend all training sessions in order to receive the Certificate. Participants must be 18 years or older.
Participants agree to create a safe, respectful, non-judgemental space that allows learning and unlearning. Participants commit to a confidential learning environment where some participants may disclose their own experiences with domestic violence or sexual assault.
Participants are expected to do their part in creating a safe, non-judgmental space, which includes respecting those whose background, experiences, beliefs and values may differ from theirs.
What makes our Certification Training unique?
Most dual Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Counselor Certification Trainings are 65 hours. At Your YWCA, we include an additional 10 hours of content on the topics of Human Trafficking and Racial Equity. During the Racial Equity modules, we discuss the multiple dimensions of identities and reflect on how we are privileged and marginalized. We engage in identifying and unlearning inaccurate and harmful social conditioning with the lens of race and ethnicity. We also explore more about our own biases and behaviors and how they are shaped by white supremacy culture.
Certification Training is offered through six- to seven-week-long cohorts each winter (beginning January), spring (beginning April), and fall (beginning August).
Get Certified
Our Certification Training utilizes a combination of instructor-led sessions, small and large group discussions, breakout activities, and more. Participants will learn and practice skills vital to supporting survivors in our communities. Participants will gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills crucial for effective advocacy and support in their roles.
Topics covered include:
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History, types and definitions.
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Best practices for supporting survivors and information about trauma and the long-range impacts.
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Principles and techniques of safety planning and crisis counseling.
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Understanding the functions and responsibilities of advocates and organizations in collaborative response.
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Working at the intersections of oppression and violence and cultural considerations in providing services
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Sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking laws and insights into the investigation process.
Apply for Certification
An application does not guarantee participation in the training. All applicants will be invited to an interview with a member of the Volunteer Engagement team prior to admission. Because space in the training is limited, first priority is given to those who wish to volunteer with the us.
Training Fees
Fees are $95 for those who volunteer with a 200-Hour commitment and $425 full-price for those seeking professional development. YWCA Golden Gate Silicon Valley is proud to offer training at no cost for other local domestic violence or rape crisis agency staff and volunteers. Training fees are non-refundable, tax deductible, and cover the cost of professional speakers, presentations and training materials.
I was nervous before starting this training because of how heavy the topics are but the space created felt so safe. Now I feel so equipped and I can’t wait to use what I learned to support others.75 Hour Training Participant
