Learn About the Board
Setting the standards for excellence in forensic social work
Definition of Forensic Social Work
Forensic social work is the application of social work to questions and issues relating to the law and legal system, both criminal and civil. Forensic social workers help children and families involved in custody issues, including but not limited to separation, divorce, neglect, and the termination of parental rights. The social workers also deal with the implications of child and spouse abuse. Forensic social workers may work in a number of settings, including juvenile and adult justice services, corrections, and mandated treatment programs.
Certification Opportunities
Requirements to become a Certified Forensic Social Worker, CFSW℠
- ACFEI Member
- Score a minimum of 100 points based on education, experience, knowledge, skill, and training.
- Hold a Bachelor's degree or higher in social work
- Submit resume, professional license (if applicable), diploma, and relevant support documentation.
Requirements to become a Certified Master Forensic Social Worker, CMFSW℠
- ACFEI Member
- Score a minimum of 150 points based upon education, experience, knowledge, skill, and training.
- Hold a minimum of a Master's degree in social work.
- Submit resume, professional license, diploma, and relevant support documentation.
How to Join
- Download the Application.
- Complete the application, fax to 417-881-4702
or
Mail to ABFSW, 2750 E. Sunshine, Springfield, MO 65804. - Member services will contact you regarding your application.
Achieving Diplomate Status
Check out our site to find out more information about becoming a Diplomate of ABFSW. If you are not a member of ACFEI please feel free to check out our membership opportunities and become one of the elite with a membership with ACFEI.
Specific Board Requirements
A minimum of an MSW from an accredited university or college, and a current valid license in social work (if applicable).
On this page
Definition of Forensic Social Work
Requirements
How to Join
Download the brochure
CLICK HERE for a list of our approvals and accreditations
“For over the past decade, the profession of social work has evolved and grown in the field of forensics. Social workers have become important as forensic interviewers of children, assisting in resolving domestic violence occurrences and frequency in the community, working as therapists in prison, delinquency centers, for Probation and Parole, conducting sex therapy with perpetrators and victims and assisting law enforcement officials in their duties, investigations and their EAPs. It is time for a national forensic credential. I am proud to be a member of ACFEI and to have it be our credentialing agency.”
Mike Meacham
Professor, Ph.D., LCSW, DCSW
Valdosta State University