Basics of California Law for LMFTs, LPCCs, and LCSWs, 11th ed - paperback version

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Written by a therapist for other therapists (and therapists in training), Basics of California Law takes the many nuances of California law and regulation and puts them in digestible, easy-to-apply language. It covers all three of California's major masters-level mental health professions: Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, and Clinical Social Work.

The 11th edition is updated to 2024 laws and regulations, and restructured to align with how instructors often use the text. Scroll down for more information on changes in this edition.

351 pages | Paperback | ISBN 979-8987461778

About the 11th edition

Updated to 2024 California state law, with a new chapter structure and several new content areas.

Introduction

1. Scope of practice
2. Licensing
3. Supervision
4. Confidentiality
5. Documentation
6. Families and children
7. Abuse reporting
8. Technology
9. Business and marketing
10. Employment
11. Unprofessional conduct
12. Advocacy

Appendix

The 11th edition is updated to 2024 laws and regulations, and restructured to align with how instructors often use the text. Among the more substantive changes:

  • Updated rules for elder and dependent adult abuse reporting
  • Updated rules for involuntary hospitalization and conservatorship
  • Updated rules for privileged communication
  • Added information on artificial intelligence in therapy practice 
  • Added information on medical and family leave
  • Added information on supervision documentation
  • Added information on documenting medical necessity
  • Added information on advocacy efforts around license exams
  • Updated information on interstate compacts 
  • Four new "Room for Debate" segments

If you are using Basics of California Law as a required text in your class, or would like to review it for adoption consideration, you may be eligible to receive an instructor review copy at no charge. Please visit this page for additional information.

Basics of California Law for LMFTs, LPCCs, and LCSWs, 11th ed

about the author

Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD

Dr. Caldwell is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Adjunct Faculty for California State University Northridge. He served for 10 years as Legislative and Advocacy Committee Chair for AAMFT-CA, and chaired the AAMFT workgroup that developed Best Practices in the Online Practice of Couple and Family Therapy. He has been deeply involved in policy changes impacting California mental health professionals, including the state's first-in-the-nation ban on reparative therapy for minors. He speaks around the country on issues related to ethics, technology, supervision, and professional development.