CANS and FAST Training

Comprehensive Assessment and Planning System (CANS)

The CANS is designed for use at two levels: the individual child and family and for the system of care. The CANS provides structured assessment of children along a set of dimensions relevant to service planning and decision making. In addition, the CANS will provide information regarding the child and family's services needs for use during system planning and/or quality assurance monitoring.


Family Advocacy Support Tool (FAST)

The FAST is a communication tool designed to understand the complex needs of families. The FAST focuses on the entire family and identifies each member's unique needs and potential strengths. The purpose of the FAST is to identify safety threats and treatment needs which may exist within families, and support families in meeting needs and reducing safety threats and support effect interventions. The FAST tool is designed to be continuously modified based on new information learned throughout the life of the case. The FAST should be revisited and updated regularly as other assessments are completed and to reflect the current status of the case.


          To register for the CANS or FAST training:

  • Both trainings are provided by Marshall University to DoHS employees, agencies and providers, and those attending Marshall University classes.
  • Trainings can be conducted in person or virtually. Marshall University also will provide train-the-trainer sessions twice a year.  In order to keep West Virginia up-to-date and to address training issues, recordings are available by clicking on the links below. Marshall University will keep the most up-to-date resources related to CANS and FAST trainings. 

Questions or Concerns contact:  BSSSNSProgram@wv.gov