Credentials for Strengths-based Family Workers

DHS offers professional development opportunities for frontline staff, supervisors, and managers who work with individuals and families across the human services system. These programs help participants build a shared strengths-based practice framework, philosophy, and language that supports consistent, family-centered services across agencies and disciplines. 

Jump to the program information for Credential for Strengths-Based Family Workers or Strength-Based Leadership Certificate.

Credential for Strengths-Based Family Workers

The Credential for Strengths-Based Family Workers (SFW) prepares frontline staff to use a tangible, strengths-based approach when working with individuals and families. Participants learn strategies to help families reach their goals while building healthy self-reliance and stronger connections to their communities.

Families also benefit from the continuity and consistency that the training provides across service systems. Participants who successfully complete all program requirements earn an SFW credential that is recognized in 13 states.

Program Overview

The SFW credential program includes:

  • Orientation and Foundations of Strength-Based Practice sessions
  • Six core training courses
  • A Temple University credential test
  • A seven-week practicum completed through the Temple CANVAS learning system

Training is offered virtually through Zoom and Temple University Harrisburg.

Curriculum

Participants will complete coursework and skill-building activities focused on:

  • Foundations of strengths-based practice
  • Client-centered counseling
  • Creating safe environments
  • Cultural understanding Professionalism and ethics
  • Systems advocacy Strength-based assessment practices

SFW Upcoming Training Cohorts

Fall Semester

Cohort Fall Term Credential Test Date
Group 1 (Accelerated)
 Thursdays
9:00 am to 4:00 pm		 September 3, 2026 to January 7, 2027 January 7, 2027
Group 2
 Fridays
9:00 am to 4:00 pm		 October 2, 2026 to May 14, 2027 May 14, 2027

Spring Semester

Cohort Spring Term Credential Test Date
Group 3
 Wednesdays
9:00 am to 4:00 pm		 January 13, 2027 to August 4, 2027 August 4, 2027
Group 4
 Fridays
9:00 am to 4:00 pm		 January 15, 2027 to August 6, 2027 August 6, 2027

Attendance and Participation Expectations

Participants are expected to:

  • Attend all required training sessions
  • Complete assignments and practicum requirements on time
  • Participate actively during Zoom sessions
  • Remain visible on screen during virtual classes
  • Notify instructors and supervisors of absence 

Participants who miss more than 15 minutes of a training session will not receive credit for that session and must complete a make-up session. Missing two classes may result in withdrawal from the program.

Tuition and Scholarships

Tuition for the SFW credential program is $575. Partial scholarships may be available based on agency need.

Credential for Strengths-Based Family Workers Application

Strength-Based Leadership Certificate

The Strength-Based Leadership Certificate (SBL) is designed for supervisors, managers, and leaders who support direct-service staff and oversee family-serving programs. The training focuses on applying strengths-based principles to leadership, communication, staff development, and organizational culture. Participants complete 30 hours of virtual leadership training along with self-directed learning activities and a final project presentation.

Curriculum

Workshop topics include:

  • Strength-based leadership foundations
  • Communication skills for leaders
  • Culture and the strengths-based leader
  • Performance management
  • Leading organizational change
  • Applying strengths-based leadership practices in supervision and team development

SBL Upcoming Training Cohorts

Cohort Semester  Virtual Workshop Dates Final Project
Leadership Group 1
  Fall 2026
  • November 3, 2026
  • November 17, 2026
  • December 1, 2026
  • December 16, 2026
  • January 5, 2026
 March 2, 2026
Leadership Group 2  Spring 2027
  • April 6, 2027
  • April 20, 2027
  • May 6, 2027
  • May 20, 2027
  • June 1, 2027
 August 3, 2027

Attendance and Tuition

Participants may not miss more than one session during the SBL course. More than one absence may prevent participants from receiving their certificate.

Tuition for the SBL program is $200 and must be paid within 10 days of the start of classes. CEUs are available for an additional fee through Temple University Harrisburg.

Strength-Based Leadership Certificate Application

Questions

For questions about the SFW or SBL programs, contact:

Eva Bey, Manager,
SFW and Leadership Programs, DHS
Phone: 412-350-5805
Email: Eva.Bey@AlleghenyCounty.US

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