Board of Behavioral Sciences launches education-review, urges students to wait to apply until degree conferred

The California Board of Behavioral Sciences said in a video presentation that it has launched a comprehensive review of education requirements for marriage and family therapist and professional clinical counselor applicants, formed a new outreach and education committee, and advised students to wait until their degrees are officially conferred before submitting registration applications.

The review, led by the board’s workforce development committee, will assess course timing, length and content for both in‑state and out‑of‑state applicants and consider whether to standardize approval processes for educational programs. "The goal of this review is to establish a more consistent and equitable framework, which will reduce confusion regarding the board's education requirements," said Steve Sodergren, executive officer of the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

The review matters because inconsistent program documentation and timing can delay licensure and the start of supervised experience, the board said. To reduce processing problems, the board reiterated practical steps for students and schools, including when to apply, what…