Working in mental health generally requires years of education and state licensing. A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) has the legal right to offer counseling services to the public.
As a general rule, an LPC has slightly less professional freedom and authority than an LPCC, but both can play a major role in the treatment and recovery of their clients. However, if LPCs or LPCCs break rules regulating the mental health sector or the health industry in general, they could be at risk of disciplinary action that could cost them their professional licenses.
What alleged license violations could lead to major setbacks for LPCs or LPCCs in Minnesota?
1. Practicing without a supervisor
As mentioned previously, LPCs generally have less professional autonomy than LPCC. They typically need to have another professional supervising their work. Working without an appropriate supervisor in place could lead to disciplinary action, including the loss of professional licensing.
2. Privacy violations
Both federal rules, including HIPAA, and state statutes establish high standards for the protection of medical privacy. Professionals generally cannot share details about a client’s treatment or symptoms with others. When sharing clinical information with others or using social media to promote a practice, small mistakes could ultimately put a professional’s license at risk.
3. Failing to report criminal charges
LPCs and LPCCs should provide prompt notification of criminal charges and convictions. Professionals who fail to notify the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy about pending charges or recent convictions could face enhanced penalties when the criminal issue comes to light during their license renewal or as the result of an outside complaint.
4. Boundary violations with clients
An LPC or LPCC has an obligation to maintain a professional separation from their clients. Developing a personal or intimate relationship could lead to accusations against a mental health professional.
5. Billing fraud
Billing for missed appointments may constitute insurance billing fraud. Unbundling discounted services or upcharging for counseling and therapy not actually provided are also forms of billing fraud that could have licensing consequences for a professional.
Those facing criminal charges or accusations of professional misconduct may need help responding effectively, and that’s okay. Fighting to preserve LPC or LPCC licensing can help professionals rebuild after a mistake or an inaccurate accusation of misconduct.