Training Update
As a result of unforeseen federal funding reductions, the SOAR online training program previously administered through SAMHSA was discontinued in August 2025. Responsibility for technical assistance and training has since transitioned to the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), which is actively working to redevelop the initial SOAR online training curriculum. The relaunch of new SOAR worker training is anticipated by February 2026.
Virginia SOAR Training
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SOAR Training can be offered via a few different platforms. Get to know a bit more about our training definitions and begin your Virginia SOAR Certification Process
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Online Training - Workers complete a free, online 20-hour SOAR training. This training is self-paced and is the first step toward Certification as a SOAR Worker in Virginia.
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Certification Training - After completing the online training, potential SOAR workers must attend a one day, in person course review and certification session​​. Upon completion of this certification training an individual receives Certified SOAR Worker designation.
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Cohort Training - Cohort training is a hybrid course that allows users to complete both the online training and certification training through a weekly webinar series. This series includes both self-paced weekly work and 1 hour weekly webinars to assist in course review. Cohort training lasts between 8-10 weeks, depending on the cohort schedule.
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Initial Application Cohort - Upon receipt of SOAR Certification, individuals participate in a 6 week cohort to assist in the development and submission of their first SOAR application. Cohorts meet weekly, for one hour, to review individual claim submissions.
Adult SOAR Upcoming Certification Training*
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​​March 10, 2026 - Arlington, Virginia
April 14, 2026 - Norfolk, Virginia
May 12, 2026 - Roanoke, Virginia
August 11, 2026 - Richmond, Virginia
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*Individuals must complete the SOAR online training before they are eligible to attend in person certification sessions. 30 day advanced registration required. Contact georgi.fisher@dbhds.virginia.gov for more information.
SOAR for Children Upcoming Certification Training*
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​​March 10, 2026 - Arlington, Virginia
April 14, 2026 - Norfolk, Virginia
May 12, 2026 - Roanoke, Virginia
August 11, 2026 - Richmond, Virginia
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*Individuals must complete the SOAR online training before they are eligible to attend in person certification sessions. 30 day advanced registration required. Contact georgi.fisher@dbhds.virginia.gov for more information.
SOAR for Adults & SOAR for Children
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The SOAR Process can be used for Adult and Child applications for Social Security Benefits. Due to the significant differences between submitted Social Security claims for adults and children, a separate course and certification series is required for each designation. Virginia currently has the following SOAR Certification Types:
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Certification in Adult SOAR
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Certification in SOAR for Children
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Master Certification in Adult & Child SOAR
Virginia SOAR Cohort Training
April 2026
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This 8-week hybrid course allows users to complete the Adult SOAR online training and the Certification Course through weekly webinar series. These cohorts are offered by request and, upon successful completion, provide Virginia SOAR Certification.
*Supervisor permission and advanced registration
required