“I wanted to update you… the clients attending are very responsive. I have been getting positive inputs from all the participants. (CDVS) Program is amazing and so much better than the Duluth Model.”
— Jennifer H., Probation & Parole Officer, Indiana
Certified Domestic Violence Specialist (CDVS) Training
Developed by Dr. Ronald Potter-Efron & Patricia Potter-Efron
Endorsed by the National Anger Management Association (NAMA)
This training is grounded in 30+ years of clinical experience and offers a brain-based, cognitive-behavioral approach to domestic violence offender treatment. The curriculum integrates neuroscience, anger management, and relationship skill-building to promote effective, ethical intervention.
What the CDVS Training Offers
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Evidence-based techniques for DV offender treatment
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13, 26, or 52-session structured programs
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Complete leader’s manual and participant workbooks
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Cognitive-behavioral and anger management skills
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Conflict resolution and stress management tools
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Integration of substance abuse and relationship skill work
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Focus on safety, empathy, and accountability
About the Authors
Dr. Ronald T. Potter-Efron, MSW, PhD
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Clinical psychotherapist specializing in DV, anger, and addiction
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Distinguished Diplomate, NAMA
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Author of Angry All the Time, Rage, and The Handbook of Anger Management and Domestic Violence Offender Treatment
Patricia Potter-Efron
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Co-author and longtime clinician with expertise in anger and domestic violence work
CDVS Certification Levels
CDVS-I
Certified Domestic Violence Specialist I
For educational services only. Ideal for professionals in behavioral health, schools, corrections, shelters, foster care, housing, and community education.
Eligibility:
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BA degree or equivalent experience (peer support, volunteer, or fieldwork)
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12 hours of approved coursework
Training Covers:
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DV basics & brain-based behavior
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Skills for healthy relationships
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Empathy, assertiveness, and consequences
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Cognitive distortions and stress
NAMA Certification Requirements:
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12 hours of NAMA-approved online training
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2 hours of NAMA-authorized supervision
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Application + resume + $125 processing fee
Fees:
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$599 training
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$125 certification application
Total: $724
CDVS-II
Certified Domestic Violence Specialist II
For treatment providers. Required for court-mandated or long-term offender work (26–52 weeks).
Prerequisite:
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CDVS-I certification
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State mental health license or addiction certification
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Professional liability insurance
Training Includes:
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3–4 hours of supervision (depending on credentials)
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6-hour ethics course with test
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NAMA Anger Management Certification or textbook option
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DV Treatment for Abusive Women (Bowen)
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Trauma-Informed Care (Clark et al.)
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One additional book from an approved reading list (e.g., Healing the Angry Brain)
Fees:
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$600 (with CAMS) or $800 (without CAMS) supervision
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Estimated $100 books
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$89.95 ethics course
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$150 NAMA certification application
⚠️ Please Note
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CDVS-II training requires completion of CDVS-I
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CDVS is NAMA-endorsed, but local court recognition varies
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Always confirm with your state/county whether this training meets DV counselor or program requirements
