Navigating the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health: A Guide
The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health is responsible for regulating and overseeing the practice of behavioral health professionals in the state of Arizona. This includes licensing, certification, and disciplinary actions. As a behavioral health professional or someone seeking behavioral health services, navigating the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health can be a complex and daunting task. In this article, we will break down five ways to navigate the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health, making it easier for you to find the information and resources you need.
1. Understanding the Board's Structure and Functions
The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health is composed of 11 members, including mental health professionals, substance abuse counselors, and public members. The Board is responsible for:
- Licensing: Issuing licenses to behavioral health professionals, including psychologists, therapists, counselors, and social workers.
- Certification: Certifying behavioral health facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and residential treatment centers.
- Disciplinary Actions: Investigating complaints and taking disciplinary actions against licensed professionals who violate the law or Board rules.
- Rulemaking: Developing and implementing rules and regulations governing the practice of behavioral health in Arizona.
🔍 Note: Understanding the Board's structure and functions can help you navigate their website and find the information you need more efficiently.
2. Finding Licensing and Certification Requirements
The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health provides detailed information on licensing and certification requirements for behavioral health professionals and facilities. To find this information, follow these steps:
- Visit the Board’s website at www.azbbhe.us.
- Click on the “Licensing” or “Certification” tab.
- Select the type of license or certification you are interested in.
- Review the requirements, including education, training, and experience.
| Licensure Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Psychologist | Doctoral degree in psychology, 1,500 hours of supervised experience, and passing the EPPP exam |
| Therapist | Master's degree in a mental health field, 2,000 hours of supervised experience, and passing the LMFT exam |
| Counselor | Master's degree in counseling, 2,000 hours of supervised experience, and passing the LPC exam |
3. Accessing Disciplinary Actions and Complaint Information
The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health maintains a database of disciplinary actions taken against licensed professionals. To access this information, follow these steps:
- Visit the Board’s website at www.azbbhe.us.
- Click on the “Disciplinary Actions” tab.
- Search by name, license number, or type of discipline.
🚨 Note: Disciplinary actions can include fines, suspension, or revocation of licensure. It's essential to check this information before selecting a behavioral health professional.
4. Finding Continuing Education and Training Resources
The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health requires licensed professionals to complete continuing education and training hours to maintain licensure. To find these resources, follow these steps:
- Visit the Board’s website at www.azbbhe.us.
- Click on the “Continuing Education” tab.
- Search by topic, format (e.g., online, in-person), or provider.
Some popular continuing education and training resources include:
- Arizona Psychological Association (AzPA)
- Arizona Counseling Association (AzCA)
- National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)
5. Contacting the Board and Filing a Complaint
If you have a question or concern about a licensed professional or facility, or if you want to file a complaint, you can contact the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Board’s website at www.azbbhe.us.
- Click on the “Contact Us” tab.
- Fill out the contact form or call the Board’s office at (602) 542-1882.
To file a complaint, follow these steps:
- Download the complaint form from the Board’s website.
- Complete the form and provide supporting documentation.
- Submit the form and documentation to the Board’s office.
By following these five ways to navigate the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health, you can find the information and resources you need to ensure that you or your loved ones receive high-quality behavioral health services in Arizona.
What is the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health?
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The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health is responsible for regulating and overseeing the practice of behavioral health professionals in Arizona.
How do I find licensing and certification requirements?
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Visit the Board’s website and click on the “Licensing” or “Certification” tab. Select the type of license or certification you are interested in and review the requirements.
How do I file a complaint against a licensed professional?
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Download the complaint form from the Board’s website, complete the form, and provide supporting documentation. Submit the form and documentation to the Board’s office.
