Correctional Behavioral Health Certification – Behavioral Specialty – CBHC-BS (ACA)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
The Correctional Behavioral Health Certification – Behavioral Specialty (CBHC-BS) certification certifies that an individual has the managerial experience and knowledge to work in a correctional setting. Individuals with this certification have knowledge of expected practices, ethical principles and security regulations. They also have the expertise to provide mental health services to inmates.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Ability to manage mentally ill inmates
- Familiarity with levels of care and the basics of mental illness
- Knowledge of substance abuse and co-occurring disorders
- Understanding of suicide prevention
- Competency with probation and paroles issues
- Knowledge of inmates’ rights
- Familiarity with involuntary treatment and restraint practices
- Proficiency working with court diversion programs
Exam Objectives
Download the exam objectives/content outline
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: American Correctional Association (ACA)
- Prerequisites: Applicant must have 2+ years of experience in providing structured activities that have been supervised by a qualified mental health professional; applicant must have 1 year experience in a correctional facility and have direct work experience with the mental health of inmates; applicant must have 40+ hours of mental health training
- Questions: 200
- Time: 240 minutes
- Cost: $195 for ACA members and $240 for non-members
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 3 years
- Download the Certification Handbook
Other relevant details: N/A
CBHC-BS (ACA) Careers
Correctional Behavioral Health Certification – Behavioral Specialty Careers
Jobs you can get with a CBHC-BS certification (additional requirements may apply):
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Correctional Nurse
- Health Service Administrator
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the Registered Nurse (RN) shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
- National average per year: $71,730
- National average per hour: $34.48
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
CBHC-BS (ACA) Training
Exam Preparation
- Study from the key topics on the Exam Handbook
- Use flash cards as a study aid
- Consider webinars offered by the ACA
- Read reference books for additional knowledge and review
- Complete practice exams
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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