The Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner Training Institute (SAFE-TI) trains healthcare professionals and staff of organizations aiming to improve their response to survivors of sexual violence. SAFE-TI offers training courses approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) as well as courses accredited by the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) for licensed medical professionals in New York City who wish to become a Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE). Additionally, regular professional development courses and webinars are offered to allow SAFE examiners to continue to develop their skillset in meeting the needs of survivors of sexual violence.
The Alliance has been providing these trainings since August 2014 and has trained upwards to 100 healthcare professionals each year. Our courses are open to NYS-licensed physicians, physician assistants, registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and nurse midwives. Our training prepares medical professionals to provide high quality trauma-informed, comprehensive, and compassionate care to survivors of sexual violence. We aim to improve community response through our training and ensure that survivors are supported, safe and cared for when seeking post sexual violence support in their respective communities.
Selection of Courses Offered:
Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner- Adult/Adolescent (40-Hour Course)
This comprehensive, 40-hour SAFE certification course prepares physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives and physician assistants to provide competent, compassionate and prompt care to sexual assault victims, while using the most advanced technology associated with DNA and other sexual assault forensic evidence collection and preservation. Upon completion of all course requirements, including online reading and assessment of knowledge, course participants can use the Certificate of Completion to be certified as a SAFE with NYS Department of Health. The International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN) certification allows participants to take the exam for IAFN certification.
Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner- Pediatric (40-hour course)
This 40-hour SANE-P certification course prepares physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, nurse-midwives and physician assistants to provide comprehensive evaluation, treatment and evidence collection for pediatric survivors of sexual violence. The objectives of this course address the development of skillful assessment techniques, thorough understanding of the dynamics of rape and child sexual abuse and the mechanics of injury which provide a solid foundation for working with pediatric survivors. This course combines the knowledge and expertise of a nationally recognized faculty with a variety of educational methods to give participants the maximum opportunity for professional growth in this advanced practice role. In addition, this course will combine classroom sessions with an online independent study.
The course has been certified through the International Association of Forensic Nurses (IAFN). Upon completion of all course requirements, course participants will be able to use the Certificate of Completion in order to sit for the SANE-P IAFN exam.
To learn more about SAFE-TI or to request training, please contact Clarissa – Director Of Programs 
.
Skills Lab
Skills Lab fulfills the NYS DOH preceptorship requirements necessary to become a NYS certified Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE). In order to become a NYS certified SAFE, healthcare providers must complete the NYS Department of Health 40-hour didactic course as well as a supervised preceptorship experience. The Skills Lab is an excellent way for SAFEs to refresh their skills and knowledge base in the areas of evidence collection, interviewing techniques, and more under the supervision of an experienced NYS and International Association of Forensic Nurses certified SAFE/SANE.
Mock Trial
The course prepares Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners for providing expert testimony in criminal court. This training session combines the expertise of the NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault, District Attorney’s Office, and experienced Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners. Using a combination of information and a presentation of fact pattern, participants will learn about the process of testifying in court. There will be an opportunity to practice skills during training. Upon completion of this course, SAFEs will be able to describe their professional experience as an expert witness, identify the procedural rules of a court system as it relates to SAFE testimony, demonstrate the process of preparing for testimony in a criminal trial, and demonstrate direct testimony and cross examination techniques.
