If you’re preparing to apply for a license in behavioral sciences or renew your existing license, knowing how to make the process go as smoothly as possible can save you substantial time and stress. Even more importantly, by taking the proper steps you’ll ensure that your license remains valid.
Types of licenses
In California, there are many different licenses one can get through the Board of Behavioral Sciences. They include:
● Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): These licensees work with people to achieve satisfying, productive social adjustments through counseling, social services and research in social work.
○ Associate Clinical Social Worker (ASW): These social workers begin their career under the supervision of LCSWs.
● Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): These types of therapists work with individuals, couples or groups to improve interpersonal relationships for satisfying and productive marriage and family life.
○ Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT): These therapists begin their career under the supervision of LMFTs.
● Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC): These counselors work with individuals on cognitive, mental and emotional issues, setting goals to deal with life situations, reduce stress, experience growth, change behavior and make rational decisions.
● Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP): LEPs work with academic learning processes and the education system in a variety of capacities. Learn more here.
Applications
Applications and information for applicants for all the BBS licenses can be found on http://www.bbs.ca.gov/.
In order to have a smooth application process, follow a few simple steps. First, understand the requirements for the license you want. Each license requires a master’s degree, a criminal background check, an exam and other requirements specific to the type of work you will be doing, which may include supervised experience or additional exams.
Once you know what is expected, you can begin the application process for your license. There is an application fee, which may vary depending on the type of license you are applying for. After the application is the examination. After you’ve applied and taken and passed the required exam(s), you will be able to obtain your license for California.
Licenses must be renewed annually.
Disclosing a Conviction
Your application requires disclosure of any pending or past convictions. If you have to disclose a conviction, remember that anything you disclose can be used against you. Consult an experienced professional license defense attorney during your application process on any disclosures you need to make. They can help you understand your options and what results may occur. In addition, failure to disclose – even expunged convictions, infractions and convictions remote in time – can be a reason for denial.
If you experience legal issues with getting or maintaining your behavioral science license, seeking the assistance of a qualified professional license defense attorney is a must. If you need help from a lawyer you can trust, contact Scott J. Harris for a free, 30-minute consultation or call us at 323-794-0701.
