PRESENTER:

John C. Simoneaux, Ph.D.

OBJECTIVES:

List and describe the most common reasons that mental health professionals are sued for malpractice

Explain the relationship between ethical violations that result in Board complaints and malpractice claims

Plan and design ethical and effective strategies for reducing the risk of malpractice exposure and responding to professional Board complaints.

AGENDA:

8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.  –  Registration

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

– Malpractice – requirements, how it is defined in the law

– Who is subject to malpractice complaints

– Frivolous and not-so-frivolous lawsuits – when do you need to consult with a lawyer.

– What to do when you first hear about being sued.

– The relationship between a lawsuit and a complaint to a professional Board

– Suggested actions upon hearing of a Board complaint – things not to do

10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. – Break

10:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

– Do you need a lawyer for a Board complaint?  Will you lose your license

– Do Board complaints always result in malpractice action?

– Step-by-step suggestions for responding to notice of a lawsuit

– Step-by-step suggestions for responding to a Board complaint

– Beware of these pitfalls – be prepared to wait.

11:45 p.m. – Adjournment

CE APPROVALS:

Psychologists – Professional Training Resources, Inc.  is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for Psychologists.  Professional Training Resources, Inc. maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

Licensed Professional Counselors – Professional Training Resources, Inc. has been approved by NBCC as an approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5829.  Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified.  Professional Training Resources, Inc. is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

Social Workers – This program has been approved for 3 ethics continuing education contact hours by the National Association of Social Workers, Louisiana Chapter, and may be applied toward the continuing education requirements for licensure renewal.

Substance Abuse Counselors  – approved by the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority for 3 clock hours.

NASP – Professional Training Resources is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists to offer continuing education for school psychologists.  Professional Training Resources maintains responsibility for the program.

Other Professions – may seek apply for education credits through their respective boards.  Everyone in attendance will receive a certificate of attendance for 3 clock hours.