722 | Deciphering Rules, Ethics, and Statutes: What Mental Health Professionals Should Know About the Boards

Regulatory boards for behavioral health licenses are necessary for the ethical and legal practice of mental health care. In this workshop, experienced board members will demystify many aspects of these regulatory boards for psychologists and other licensed mental health professionals. Utilizing the board of counseling as an example, the presenters will explain how to navigate a complex framework of ethical and legal responsibilities, where missteps can result in formal complaints and potential disciplinary actions by licensing boards. This presentation aims to reduce anxiety surrounding licensing board processes by providing a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape. It will review the various layers of regulations that govern counselors, including federal and state statutes, board rules, board policies, and professional codes of ethics. Through case examples, the presentation will explore how these different regulations intersect and impact the counseling practice. Additionally, the session will examine common issues that often lead to complaints, investigations, and disciplinary actions, with a detailed walk-through of the process from the initial complaint to trial. The presentation will conclude by discussing when and how to proactively engage with licensing boards to prevent potential ethical or legal issues. Attendees will leave with a solid understanding of regulatory expectations and strategies for ensuring ethical compliance.