As of 2023, California has implemented changes to the continuing education requirements for mental health professionals. These changes are designed to ensure that licensed professionals are up-to-date with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in the field of mental health.
The new requirements will impact licensed professionals across the state, including psychologists, social workers, marriage and family therapists, and professional clinical counselors as of July 1, 2023. Here are some of the key changes that mental health professionals should be aware of:
Increased CEU Requirements for Initial Renewal
Perhaps the most significant change is the increase in the number of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) required for initial license renewal. Previously, licensed professionals renewing for the first time were required to complete 18 hours of CEUs every two years. However, under the new requirements, licensed professionals renewing for the first time will be required to complete 36 hours of CEUs every two years.
CE Waivers
The BBS has implemented changes to its temporary Continuing Education (CE) waiver policies. The board will no longer allow temporary CE waivers for individuals absent from California due to military service or residing in another country. This policy change was made because online CE courses are now widely available, and temporary CE waivers are no longer necessary for these reasons.
The BBS has also modified its temporary CE waiver criteria for licensees who are impacted by personal health conditions or are the primary caregiver of a family member with a total physical or mental disability. The new policy limits the scope of personal health information required to be submitted by licensees applying for a waiver.
The board now requires licensees who have been granted a temporary CE waiver to complete the 6-hour law and ethics course. even if approved for a waiver. The purpose of this update is to ensure that all licensed practitioners stay up-to-date with any alterations made to laws and ethical codes.
If a temporary waiver request is necessary, it must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the license's expiration date. For example, if a license expires on July 31, 2023, the waiver request form and documentation must be received by the board no later than May 31, 2023. The BBS has implemented new CE waiver request forms and instructions to assist licensees with the application process.
CEs for Teaching Courses
In the past, licensees were able to fulfill their entire 36-hour continuing education (CE) requirement by teaching CE courses for a board-accepted provider. However, a new limitation has been introduced to improve consumer protection. Licensees can now only fulfill a maximum of 18 hours of their CE requirement by teaching courses during a single renewal period. This change is applicable to licensees whose license expires after July 1, 2023, or whose renewal application is received by the Board on or after that date, regardless of their expiration date.
This limitation aims to encourage licensees to expand their knowledge beyond the topics they teach, which ultimately benefits consumers. By requiring licensees to obtain CE on additional topics, they will be better equipped to provide quality services to their clients. The new rule serves as a reminder that professional development is an ongoing process, and it is crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry.
Licensees should plan ahead to ensure they meet the new CE requirements when renewing their license. They should take advantage of the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and skills by enrolling in courses outside of their teaching subject area. The change in the CE requirement is a positive step towards ensuring that licensed professionals provide the best possible service to their clients.
Additional changes affecting BBS continuing education requirements can be found here.
The changes to the continuing education requirements for mental health professionals in California are designed to ensure that licensed professionals are up-to-date with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in the field of mental health. With these updates, licensed professionals may be better equipped to serve diverse populations and provide the best possible care to their clients.
