PRESENTER

John Simoneaux, Ph.D.

OBJECTIVES:

Describe and explain Louisiana legal statutes involving families that have relevance to mental health professionals.

Critique and assess laws relating to child custody, visitation, relocation, parental rights, children in need of care, termination of parental rights, etc.

Demonstrate and communicate the positive contribution mental health professionals can and should have on families in Louisiana

Discuss and predict the legal/professional risks involved in delivering mental health services to children and families.

Prepare policies and professional procedures designed to anticipate and minimize conflicts between effective practice and professional liability

AGENDA:

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

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

On overview of relevant statutes in Louisiana related to families

• Preamble to the Children’s Code and its relevance:
• Who is a “parent”
• Grandparent rights
• Guardians
• Custody/Visitation
• Parental rights and responsibilities

Why MH professionals are important to family law

• Evaluations – Child Custody, Parenting plans, etc.
• Qualifications to perform evaluations for the Courts – challenges
• Parenting Coordinators
• The problem with shifting roles

10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. – Break

10:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Risks involving the treatment of families

• Professional Board Complaints
• Lawsuits
• Threats/Physical risks/Other dangers

Working with families effectively and safely

• The need for courage and commitment to help
• Policies and procedures to minimize risk

12:45 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 4 general 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 4 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 4 clock hours.