» A Tobacco Treatment Specialist (TTS) is a professional who is specially trained to possess the skills and knowledge to provide effective, evidence-based interventions for tobacco dependence for all forms of tobacco and nicotine use.

» Tobacco Treatment Specialists understand the science behind tobacco addiction, nicotine withdrawal symptoms, and effective treatments for tobacco cessation.  They can develop individualized treatment plans using comprehensive, evidence-based assessments and treatment strategies.

» The training is designed for persons who work with tobacco and nicotine dependent clients or deliver treatment services within a healthcare or community setting; however, anyone who is interested is welcome to attend!

» Target audiences for the training can include the following: physicians, advanced practice providers, mental health counselors, addiction counselors, social workers, nurses, pharmacists, peer recovery coaches, health educators, and respiratory therapists.

» Prior to attending the TTS Core Training, participants must successfully complete the “Basic Skills for Working with Smokers” online course offered through UMass. Please be aware, there is a separate fee for this online course payable to UMass when registering for this prerequisite.

» Participants must be tobacco-free (including E-cigarettes) for 6 months prior to the training.

» There is no minimum education level and no license/certification requirements to attend the TTS Core Training.

» Successful completion of  the TTS Core Training qualifies as the training requirement to apply for the National Certificate in Tobacco Treatment Practice (NCTTP).

» This national certificate program was created to standardize and unify tobacco competencies, knowledge, and skills on a national level and provides national, unified recognition of professionals who obtain this prestigious certificate.

» By obtaining the NCTTP,  Tobacco Treatment Specialists are demonstrating to employers, third-party payers, and clients their advanced education in evidence-based tobacco treatment competencies, skills, and practice.