Narrative Focused Trauma Care® Level I

The Allender Center is committed to training professional therapists, ministry leaders, spiritual directors, life coaches, and advocates to work on behalf of healing and redemption through story—beginning with their own. Narrative Focused Trauma Care® (NFTC) is an innovative methodology that integrates psychology and theology to holistically engage the heartbreaking impact of trauma and abuse with compassion and care.

Applications for the 2025-26 cohort of Narrative Focused Trauma Care Level I are now open! Join the Allender Center for NFTC Level I and begin your journey into this life-changing work. 

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Narrative Focused Trauma Care Training: Healing to Lead

About NFTC Level I

Heartache and trauma are inevitable parts of life, yet we believe redemption is possible. The Narrative Focused Trauma Care training program is designed to equip you to support others by first exploring your own story, grounded in the belief that we cannot guide others beyond where we’ve been ourselves. Becoming Level I trained marks the start of a transformative journey, where you’ll uncover the profound narrative of God and gain essential psychological and theological frameworks for personal and collective trauma recovery.

Key Takeaways
Through four intensive weekend training sessions, you will gain:

  • A deeper understanding of the nature of trauma and abuse, and how those experiences impact our stories and personhood.
  • Transformative engagement with your story, deepening awareness of how it has shaped your identity, style of relating, imagination, and calling.
  • Insight into the key elements of a person’s story arc, how family of origin impacts attachment styles, and how to identify and engage cycles of shame and contempt.
  • Deeper insight into your sexual development, exploring how it shapes your patterns of relating and understanding its connection to intimacy, identity, and relationships.
  • Expanded awareness of personal and collective identity formation, recognizing how culture, gender, race, sexuality, and socioeconomic experiences inform your understanding of and engagement with both your own story and the stories of others.

Training Weekend Topics

Weekend 1 – Shalom Framework: Core Components of Story and the Impact of Trauma & Abuse – Gain foundational insight into trauma, the power of engaging narrative, and how understanding your story within God’s greater story equips you to care for others.

Weekend 2 – Story in Context: How Your Story Shapes Who You Are – Explore how your family of origin, cultural identity, and collective stories shape and impact your way of being, relating, and leading.

Weekend 3 – Reclaiming Desire: Healing, Freedom, and the Power of Your Story – Become empowered to boldly engage the sacred realm of sexuality and desire, offering meaningful care to these tender stories—including where sexual trauma has left its mark—and an invitation to step into true freedom from shame.

Weekend 4 – Calling: Integrating Your Story and Purpose – Cultivate a deep, integrated understanding of how your story, God’s story, and your unique calling intertwine in the work of restoration.

 

This is truly transformative work done at the highest level. There really isn’t anything like it…My life is forever better. I can’t wait to continue this work! Thank you!! -Level I Participant


📄 Is NFTC Level I right for you?

Take our Readiness Self-Assessment to reflect on your journey and discern if NFTC Level I training with the Allender Center is the next step for you. This thoughtful tool is designed to be a resource as you consider your readiness for this transformative work. Download it here.

Level I Training Dates & Cost

NFTC Level I is offered in both an In-Person Cohort or a Virtual Cohort, offering flexibility to engage in the way that best suits you. As a trainee, you’ll participate in four intensive training weekends (Thursday–Sunday) featuring live teaching and interactive small group work, and one orientation session prior to the first weekend.

2025-2026 Program Dates:
Orientation: September 8, 2025 (4-5pm PT) This orientation occurs online via Zoom for all participants
Weekend 1: September 18-21, 2025
Weekend 2: November 13-16, 2025
Weekend 3: January 22-25, 2026
Weekend 4: March 19-22, 2026

Each four-day session runs 8:00am-4:00pm PT Thursday-Saturday and 8:00am-12:30pm PT Sunday. A detailed, daily schedule for the 2025-2026 cohort will be provided.

Cost: The total program cost of NFTC Level I, which includes 110 seat hours of training, is $7495 for the Virtual Cohort and $8495 for the In-Person Cohort. Complete details about the cost for each program, payment plans, and scholarship options are below.

Your Training Experience

Each weekend offers an immersive experience that fosters personal transformation, deepens knowledge, and builds skills—all within a carefully structured schedule that prioritizes rest, sustainability, and ongoing self-care.

Interactive Story Groups

A defining feature of NFTC training is the opportunity to engage in an intimate, facilitator-led Story Group. Over the course of the program year, you will participate in 28 Story Group sessions (seven sessions per weekend intensive), providing consistent opportunities for engagement and growth. In-Person Cohort participants gather in a shared physical space led by on-site Facilitators, while Virtual Cohort participants connect securely online with experienced virtual Facilitators. Both formats cultivate deep reflection, meaningful transformation, and hands-on practice in Narrative Focused Trauma Care.

Teaching Sessions

Live, interactive teaching sessions led by Dr. Dan Allender and our diverse and experienced Teaching Team. Both Virtual and In-Person cohorts will engage with the same teaching sessions, which are conducted live via Zoom. Virtual Cohort participants will join these sessions remotely, while In-Person Cohort participants at our Seattle location will gather in a classroom to watch the sessions projected onto a large screen. Please note that instructors will not be physically present in the room for the In-Person Cohort—all teaching will be conducted remotely and streamed live. The only in-person facilitation will take place in Story Groups, which are led by on-site facilitators.

Additional Learning Support

Throughout the program year, you’ll have access to a variety of resources designed to enhance your learning through our learning platform. These include preparatory reading, podcasts, films, and writing assignments to deepen your understanding. You’ll also receive 1-2 hours of video or audio teaching before most weekend sessions to introduce key concepts. Recordings of all teaching sessions will be available for you to revisit throughout the year.

Benefits of Completing Level I

  • Documented completion verifying 110 seat hours (60 hours of teaching, 50 hours of group work) for those seeking CEUs
  • Recognition as NFTC Level I Trained and eligible to be listed in the NFTC Directory
  • Eligibility to continue your training in Narrative Focused Trauma Care Level II

 

This was truly life changing… I believe it will impact generations to come in my family as we break the cycles of shame and contempt. -Level I Participant

Select from In-Person or Virtual Cohort Learning Environment

You can choose to join NFTC Level I through either our In-Person Cohort hosted in Seattle, WA or our Virtual Cohort hosted entirely online, providing flexibility to engage in the learning experience in the way that best suits your needs. Whichever format you choose, you’ll receive the same exceptional teaching and content, and enjoy camaraderie with fellow participants.

FAQs and Requirements: In-Person Cohort

How many people will be there?
Our In-Person Cohort has limited space, with participation typically capped at 30–35 participants.
How do I decide whether the In-Person Cohort is the right fit for me?
The In-Person Cohort in Seattle offers an immersive experience designed to foster connection, focus, and growth. You’ll engage in intimate, facilitator-led Story Groups in-person, while also building meaningful relationships with your cohort during breaks and over meals. Enjoy a focused learning environment with complimentary boxed lunches, light snacks, and beverages, plus time to recharge or connect with others. Outside of training hours, you can explore Seattle’s stunning scenery. If you have the ability to travel to Seattle for all four training weekends, and if you’re seeking in-person connection and a refreshing break from screen fatigue, then this may be the option for you!
May I attend some weekends virtually and some in-person?
To support group continuity and ensure the best experience for everyone, you need to commit to attending all four weekends in-person at our Seattle location. Our In-Person Cohort is intentionally designed for full presence and participation in the shared, immersive Story Group sessions that occur onsite.
Will the instructors be on campus for the Teaching Sessions?
Only the Story Groups will be led by an in-person facilitator. Instructors for the collective Teaching Sessions will not be physically present in the room for the In-Person Cohort; all teaching will be conducted live by our remote instructional team and projected onto a large screen for the in-person group to watch together in a classroom.
What is the location?
All training weekends will take place at the Allender Center located at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology at 1130 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, Washington 98144 (View map). Note: This is a new location for our center! Our old address was on Elliott Avenue; please update your records, as mapping services may take time to reflect this change.
What about lodging and transportation options?
In-person participants will be responsible to secure their own lodging and transportation while in town. Our building is in an urban setting, and while there are no hotels within immediate walking distance, there are walkable Airbnb and Vrbo options as well as nearby hotels that will require just a short Uber or Lyft to the venue. You will have the opportunity to connect with other members of the in-person cohort to collaborate on shared lodging and transportation if desired. As with any large city, Seattle has areas that may feel unfamiliar if you’re not used to an urban environment. While our building is in a well-traveled part of town and Seattle is a safe city to visit, you will encounter aspects of city life such as busier streets, a diverse mix of people and backgrounds, and a visible range of socioeconomic conditions. We encourage you to plan your lodging and transportation with your comfort level in mind, and we’ll provide a list of potential nearby accommodations for you to consider as you make your travel plans.
If I am booking flights, when do I need to arrive?

Each training weekend begins at 8:00am PT on Thursdays and ends at 12:30pm PT on Sundays. The SeaTac Airport is approximately 25-40 minutes from our location depending on traffic conditions. We recommend arriving by Wednesday night so you have plenty of time to feel rested and ready to engage in the training by Thursday morning. Flight departures of 3:00pm or later on Sunday are advised.

FAQs and Requirements: Virtual Cohort

How do I decide whether the Virtual Cohort is the right fit for me?
Our Virtual Cohort is a fantastic option if you value flexibility and convenience, allowing you to engage in this transformative training from the comfort of your own space. It’s also a budget-friendly choice, offering the same rich content and meaningful connections, while saving on program fees and eliminating travel expenses.
What kind of space do I need to attend online?

Choose a quiet, comfortable space in your home or other getaway location where you can participate without distractions. Be sure that you’ve secured childcare and/or time off work, if applicable. Your space should offer privacy for the duration of the training weekends, allowing you to fully engage in both teaching and Story Group sessions.

What technology do I need to participate?

A reliable computer with a high-speed internet connection, webcam, and microphone is required. Since all Story Groups and teaching sessions take place online, a stable internet connection with both video and audio capabilities is essential for full participation.

Still have questions? Please reach out to our team at programs@theallendercenter.org with any other questions you may have as you discern if you’d like to participate in the Virtual Cohort or In-Person Cohort.

Probably the best program I have ever been a part of (and I have been through many)!! It is life changing and I am a better person and therapist for it. – Level I participant

Application Process

To apply, please create an account in our online application portal. The first step is to select an application for the In-Person or Virtual cohort. In your application, you will be asked to respond to questions about your current work with people, experience participating in a group, experience leading or facilitating groups, and ways that you have gone deeper into your own story. If we have any questions about your application, an admissions counselor may reach out to discuss your short answers.

A non-refundable $50 application fee is required to submit your application.

Admission into the Narrative Trauma Care Level I program is not competitive. We accept a wide range of experiences and backgrounds and applicants do not need to have professional experience in a helping profession to be considered for this program. All applications will be reviewed thoughtfully to ensure readiness to enter the depth of this work. Applicants will be notified of their admission status within 10 days of application submission.

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Costs

The total program cost for 110 seat hours of training at NFTC Level I is $7495 for the Virtual Cohort and $8495* for the In-Person Cohort. 

Upon acceptance to NFTC Level I, a non-refundable, non-transferable $500 deposit is required to initially reserve your seat. This deposit is applied toward your total program cost. To fully secure your enrollment, you will be invited to set up a 6 Month or 10 Month Payment Plan to pay your remaining balance (the extended 10 Month option is only available for applicants who start their Payment Plan by July 31, 2025). If you would prefer to pay your balance in full instead of on a Payment Plan, please contact us at programs@theallendercenter.org for options. Limited partial scholarships are also available; see below.

*The In-Person Cohort cost reflects the additional expenses involved in hosting and staffing an onsite experience. Attendance also includes daily access to light breakfast items, snacks, and refreshments, as well as lunches on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of each weekend.

Scholarships Are Available

We believe in the importance of this work and do our best to make this offering accessible. If the cost of the program is a barrier, we encourage you to invite your community to consider sponsoring you. We are also grateful to be able to offer a limited number of partial scholarships thanks to the generosity of our donor community.

We offer sliding scale scholarships ranging from $600-$2100 for NFTC Level I. Scholarships are typically awarded on a first-come, first-served basis at the time of application. However, if some initial award recipients do not officially enroll and use their scholarship, additional funds may become available on a rolling basis later in the year, though this cannot be guaranteed.

Instructions to apply for a scholarship using a self-reflection and self-assessment tool are provided through email when you submit your application. We prioritize support for applicants facing current financial constraints and/or systemic barriers that limit access to wealth and opportunities. If approved, you will be notified of your award amount along with your acceptance to the program.

If you are not initially awarded a scholarship but still choose to enroll at the standard fee, we trust this indicates you have found a way to cover the cost without scholarship assistance. As a result, we do not retroactively apply newly available scholarships to those who have already enrolled.

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Cancellation, Payment, and Refund Policy

The Center understands that unforeseen circumstances may arise and wants to be clear about our financial policies regarding payments, cancellations, and refunds. This policy exists because your enrollment reserves a limited spot in our program, and cancellations close to the start date make it difficult for us to fill that space. We strive to steward our resources wisely, and withdrawals create financial challenges that impact our ability to operate and serve others effectively. We appreciate your understanding of the commitments required to sustain this program for all participants.

Once you receive your acceptance notice and choose to complete your enrollment, the following payment and refund policies go into effect:

  • The $500 enrollment deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable under all circumstances.
  • If you cancel or withdraw, any other Program fees may be refundable or still due, based on the following schedule. If an amount is still due, you are responsible for paying the amount through an existing payment plan or another payment method.  The percentage refundable or still due is based on the total Program fees (excluding the deposit), not the amount paid to date:
    • More than 60 days before program start date: 100% refundable
    • 45–60 days before program start date: 75% refundable (25% is retained or still due if unpaid)
    • 30–44 days before program start date: 50% refundable (50% is retained or still due if unpaid)
    • Less than 30 days before program start date or anytime after start date: No refund (100% of Program fees retained or still due if unpaid)

If you choose to cancel or withdraw from the program, please promptly notify the Center in writing by sending an email to programs@theallendercenter.org.

Continuing Education Units

Participants in Narrative Focused Trauma Care Level I receive a certificate of completion verifying 110 seat hours (60 hours of teaching, 50 hours of group work). Participants may apply for recognition of these hours for CEU credit with their respective licensing bodies. The Allender Center is an organization housed within The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology. The Seattle School is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), is authorized by the Washington Student Achievement Council, and meets the requirements and minimum education standards established for degree-granting institutions under the Degree-Granting Institution Act.

The Allender Center at The Seattle School will not be held responsible for professional licensing boards or states that do not recognize the requested CEUs.

Scope & Limitations of NFTC

Narrative Focused Trauma Care is a theologically and psychologically-informed approach that integrates psychological perspectives within a Christian theological framework. NFTC incorporates research on trauma and attachment, as well as Christian biblical and archetypal frameworks, to understand the impact of trauma in relation to the self, God, and others. NFTC functions as a lens through which to understand personal and collective stories of trauma. It centers on the story engagement process, and NFTC training provides instruction that can help a trauma-informed individual offer a supported experience for exploring and understanding personal stories and their impacts. 

NFTC can be applied in various professional and vocational contexts. While licensed counselors may integrate NFTC into their practice, it is not a substitute for clinical mental health services and does not diagnose or treat mental health concerns. NFTC should not be regarded as counseling, psychotherapy, or any other clinical intervention. NFTC trained individuals who use NFTC in their professional, volunteer, or personal contexts are responsible for ensuring use of the training is in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and licensing or educational requirements in their location.

Learn More About Narrative Focused Trauma Care®

The Narrative Focused Trauma Care® (NFTC) Model is an innovative methodology that integrates psychology and theology to holistically engage the heartbreaking impact of trauma and abuse with compassion and care. This model builds on the foundational, lifelong work of Dr. Dan Allender in the realm of trauma and abuse recovery and his deep conviction that healing is not only possible, but is core to the gospel story unfolding within and around us. Read more about NFTC here.

Questions about this training? We’d love to talk with you. Please reach out to programs@theallendercenter.org.