The Family Support Specialist Competency Course is a 40-hour virtual training and testing course prepares you to become a Certified Family Support Specialist (FSS) through the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS). 

 The Family Support Specialist Competency Course is intended for parents and caregivers of a child with a mental, emotional, or behavioral challenge. Parents and caregivers can turn firsthand experience into a recognized credential and a path toward supporting others walking the same road. 

What You’ll Learn 

The course covers five core competency areas essential to the Family Support Specialist role: 

• Effecting Change 

• System Knowledge & Navigation 

• Wellness & Resiliency 

• Resources and Natural Supports 

• Professional Responsibilities 

Upon successfully completing the course and passing the required testing, you may be eligible for FSS certification with TDMHSAS. 

Eligibility 

To register, you must be able to self-certify all of the following: 

• At least 18 years of age and legally able to work or volunteer in the United States 

• A current resident of the State of Tennessee 

• Self-identify as being, or having been, the biological parent, adoptive parent, foster parent, or authorized relative caregiver of a child or youth with a mental, emotional, behavioral, or co-occurring disorder (TDMHSAS may request supporting documentation) 

• Hold a high school diploma, GED, or degree from an accredited institution 

• Complete one of the following prerequisite trainings before starting the Competency Course:  

• TN Voices Parent 2 Parent 

• NAMI Basics 

• Family to Family 

$750 for the full 40-hour course 

Limited scholarships are available, particularly for parents and caregivers of children ages 0–8 or those who work predominantly with that age group. 

This course is offered statewide, with fully virtual participation, so it’s accessible no matter where you live in Tennessee.