The SIVRA (Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment) is a research-based tool designed to deliver a consistent and objective evaluation of an individual’s risk of violence toward others. This assists Behavioral Intervention Teams (BITs) in proactively addressing the risk and protective factors that influence an individual’s willingness to engage in violence.
Originally developed in 2012, the current version of SIVRA taught in this course is an enhanced version featuring a refined assessment system focusing on 21 risk factors for violence, grounded in the most recent research. It includes an improved user guide, along with supplemental materials such as an interview template and suggested interview questions. Users familiar with the previous version will find the new tool better organized, with clearer descriptions of risk factors and easier scoring.
This two-day certification course provides in-depth training on using the SIVRA tool and conducting a thorough and objective violence risk assessment process. Participants in this certification course will learn how to conduct an effective interview and gather information to evaluate an individual’s risk of harm to others using the SIVRA tool. Additionally, they will practice applying the SIVRA tool to videos demonstrating violence risk assessment interviews. NABITA’s expert faculty members will also discuss strategies for assessing credibility, how to phrase questions to probe for specific risk and protective factors, and how to gather information from collateral sources.
Completing this certification course is a prerequisite for NABITA’s SIVRA in Practice course. This progression ensures a deep and comprehensive understanding, enabling participants to learn and practice administering the SIVRA in varied and challenging situations.
If you completed this training, formerly known as “Structured Interview for Violence Risk Assessment (SIVRA-35),” we recommend re-enrolling to learn the revised tool and maintain industry standards and best practices. Your SIVRA-35 certification remains valid until your expiration date.
Pre-tests, Post-test, and Verification (Coming in 2026)
NABITA offers training participants an opportunity to complete a short pre-test and post-test to help gauge participant knowledge attainment. Your score on the pre-test has no bearing on whether you will receive certification for this course. Because of that we strongly encourage you to take this pre-test on your own, closed book, and prior to reviewing the course materials.
The optional pre-test is available from the time the event lobby opens until the training’s start time. NABITA staff are unable to manually reopen the pre-test after that time. If you are interested in completing the pre-test, we encourage you to be sure to do so prior to the training start time.
Post-tests are strongly encouraged and are available for the three months of your event lobby access. NABITA staff are unable to manually reopen the post-test after that time. Post-tests can be taken open book until you pass and then result in a Verified Certification of Completion. For those who choose to opt out of this demonstration of knowledge, you will receive certification of attendance. Post-tests are are available through your event lobby for 90 days after the conclusion of your training.
Key Takeaways:
- Administer the SIVRA tool in an interview through narrative, structured questions with individuals exhibiting a range of concerning behaviors.
- Conduct a more standardized, research-based violence risk assessment with individuals determined to be at an increased risk.
Use a quantitative, numeric scoring key to assist in decision-making
Upcoming Sessions
| Schedule | Member | Non-Member | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 10 - 11, 2025 10:00am - 5:00pm ET |
$1,384 | $1,629 | |
|
Jan. 14 - 15, 2026 10:00am - 5:00pm ET |
$1,248 | $1,469 | |
|
Feb. 25 - 26, 2026 8:30am - 4:30pm ET Orlando, FL |
$1,248 | $1,469 | |
|
May 5 - 6, 2026 10:00am - 5:00pm ET |
$1,248 | $1,469 | |
|
Jul. 29 - 30, 2026 10:00am - 5:00pm ET |
$1,248 | $1,469 | |
|
Dec. 9 - 10, 2026 10:00am - 5:00pm ET |
$1,248 | $1,469 |
The pricing above is effective if purchased today. Take advantage of our Early Bird Pricing to secure your spot at a reduced rate until typically 10 weeks prior to the event. After the Early Bird pricing ends, our Regular Pricing takes effect, typically available up to 2 weeks before the event begins. Last Chance Pricing is your final opportunity to register, typically during the last 2 weeks before the event start date.
Register yourself or your team for two to four courses and receive a 15% discount; register for five or more and receive a 25% discount. Please create your order, click the 'Pay Later' option upon checkout, and reach out to events@nabita.org for the discounts to be applied.
Contact events@nabita.org to learn more about multi-registration discounts.