Instructions
Step One: First, you will need to take a look at the materials that are involved with domestic violence certification and determine whether or not this is something you actually want to do. Since you will be helping other people escape violence and abuse, it is important that you take a look at your own situation to ensure that you're situation doesn't show any signs of domesticated violence, before assisting others. This is advised to ensure that your life doesn't become intertwined with the individuals you are counseling.
Step Two: The next thing you will need to do is get in touch with your local domestic violence advocacy center and schedule an appointment to meet with the director or volunteer coordinator. Explain to him or her that you would like to obtain a certificate as a domestic violence counselor. Likely you will be asked about your qualifications and a few intimate questions about possible past or present abusive relationships you have been involved in. These questions are only asked to see whether or not you are stable enough to handle a position helping others in these situations without becoming attached personally.
Step Three: You should make plans to attend volunteer training courses at your local domestic violence center. This will help you to understand how you will be helping victims and will prepare and train you much better than just reading a book.
Step Four: Now, it's time to take some courses in domestic violence counseling. There are some shelters that offer training and are able to provide you with certification in just a couple of months. You can find an online domestic violence course at www.universalclass.com. Here you will also find training for mediation, negotiation skills and a variety of others that will come in handy when counseling victims.
