This program will provide a review and discussion of state and federal laws, rules and regulations and ethical guidelines that apply to licensed mental health professionals who provide mental health and forensic services to children and families. A family’s relationship is often interrupted by death, divorce, separation, the involvement of CPS or other agencies, or serious health or mental health diagnosis that requires outside intervention. There are additional ethical and legal considerations that must be understood and considered by mental health professionals who provide services to children and families. There will be specific instructions on identifying the client, dealing with families in litigation, responding to requests for records, and maintaining professional ethics in legal situations. Attendees will gain an understanding of how the legal system works and the importance of staying within the role of a therapist when dealing with a family in crisis.
Specific Learning Objectives:
- Understand state and federal laws that apply to provide mental health services to children and families.
- Understand specific ethical guidelines that apply to provide mental health services to children and families.
- Understand Texas law regarding mandatory reports of suspected abuse and neglect of a child, an elderly person, or a disabled person.
- Maintain professional boundaries when dealing with the legal system or families in crisis.
Kenda Dalrymple is a Partner in the firm of Dalrymple, Shellhorse, Ellis & Diamond,
L.L.P. in Austin, Texas. She earned her B.A. in Communications from Baylor University
and her law degree from Baylor University School of Law. She practices in the areas of
administrative and health law, with an emphasis on representing licensed professionals
before their licensing boards and advising them on matters related to their practices. She
is married to her college sweetheart, Bill Dalrymple, and they live in Cedar Park with four bossy little poodles.