THE GARDENER
Certified Prevention Specialist
"Be the Change"
While many heroes help people struggling with addiction, another kind of hero works to stop the problem before it even starts. Prevention Specialists are the architects of healthier communities, building a world with less substance use.
The Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) credential is for proactive changemakers. It’s a recognition of your skills in creating and leading prevention efforts. If you are passionate about creating change, building healthier communities, and stopping problems before they start, the CPS credential is for you. It’s a powerful way to formalize your role as a leader in the field of prevention.
The Five Pillars of CPS Certification
The CPS pathway is designed to be accessible to a wide range of professionals who are passionate about community health.
Pillar 1: The Training (Learning the Science of Prevention)
Requirement: 120 hours of specialized training
Effective prevention is more than just good intentions; it’s a science. This training is broken down into three key areas:
ATOD-Specific Training (24 hours)
Understanding Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs—how they work and the problems they cause
Prevention Ethics (6 hours)
Learning the specific ethical rules for working with communities and vulnerable populations
Prevention Domains (90 hours)
The core of your training, covering how to plan, implement, and evaluate prevention programs, work with communities, and advocate for policy change
Pillar 2: The Experience (Putting Your Knowledge to Work)
Requirement: 2,000 hours of work (about one year full-time)
Paid or volunteer
You need to show that you have real-world experience in the prevention field. This is about demonstrating your ability to apply prevention principles in a practical setting.
Your experience can be gained in diverse roles:
Work in a school setting
Non-profit organization
Public health department
Community coalition
Pillar 3: The Mentorship (Learning from the Pros)
Requirement: 120 hours of supervision or mentoring
As you work, you need guidance from those who have come before you. This isn’t about being managed; it’s about having an experienced professional who can:
Help you navigate complex community issues
Give you feedback on your prevention strategies
Support your growth as a prevention leader
Ensure you're applying best practices
Pillar 4: The Examination (Confirming Your Expertise)
Requirement: Pass the IC&RC Prevention Specialist (PS) Examination
This exam confirms that you have the knowledge and skills to be an effective prevention professional, from understanding risk and protective factors to building community-wide prevention plans.
The examination validates your expertise in prevention science and ensures you meet internationally recognized standards for prevention practice.
Pillar 5: Your Commitment (Your Personal Statement)
Requirement: Submit a personal statement
Unlike other credentials, the CPS requires a personal statement. This is your chance to share your passion for prevention and reflect on your journey. It’s a way to show your dedication to building a healthier future for your community.
Your personal statement demonstrates your commitment to prevention work and articulates your vision for creating positive change in communities.
Residency RequirementÂ
Applicants must live or work at least 51% of the time within Nigeria at the time of application and examination.
Ethics Requirement
Applicants must sign a credential-specific Code of Ethics statement or an affirmation confirming that they have read, understand, and agree to abide by the Living Vines Certification Board (LVCB) Code of Ethics.
The CPS Pathway at a Glance
1
Get Trained
Complete 120 hours of specialized prevention training
2
Get Experience
Complete 2,000 hours of paid or volunteer prevention work
3
Get Mentored
Receive 120 hours of supervision while working
4
Pass the Exam
Pass the IC&RC Prevention Specialist Examination
5
Share Your Story
​Write your personal statement of commitment
Why Pursue CPS Certification?
Prevent Before It Starts
Build healthier communities by addressing substance use before it becomes a problem
Professional Leadership
Gain recognition as a prevention leader through IC&RC international certification
Community Impact
Create lasting change by implementing evidence-based prevention strategies
Ready to Build a Better Future?
“If you are passionate about creating change, building healthier communities, and stopping problems before they start, the CPS credential is for you. It’s a powerful way to formalize your role as a leader in the field of prevention.”