Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) serve a vital role in supporting the mental health of individuals across Texas. Because clients place immense trust in counselors during vulnerable times, licensed counselors are held to high ethical standards.
A professional counselor license consulting lawyer in Texas can help protect your right to work.
If you’re a counselor looking to protect your license or are facing a potential investigation, hiring an experienced Texas professional license consulting lawyer can be essential.
At Bertolino LLP, we work with licensed professional counselors throughout Texas to protect their credentials and careers. Schedule your free consultation with one of our Client Success Liaisons
Professional Counselor Licenses: Our Texas Attorneys Defend
Our legal team has extensive experience working with licensed professionals, especially in healthcare and counseling disciplines. It’s essential to recognize that even a minor complaint or misunderstanding can compromise your ability to practice.
Whether you’re preemptively seeking to safeguard your license or responding to an active complaint, we’re here to help. We represent clients across a broad range of licensure fields, including:
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs)
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs)
- Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselors (LCDCs)
- Licensed Psychologists
- School Counselors
- Mental Health Nurse Practitioners
- Behavioral Health Specialists
If your license is under review or you’re anticipating potential disciplinary action from the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) or another licensing body, we’re equipped to help you handle the legal and procedural challenges involved.
Why Professional Counselor Licenses in Texas are Vulnerable to Complaints
Mental health professionals operate in an emotionally charged environment where misunderstandings can easily arise. Despite a counselor’s best intentions, a client or their family may misinterpret actions or outcomes.
Sometimes complaints are based on miscommunication, while others may involve more serious allegations, even if untrue.
Some of the most common reasons professional counselors face complaints in Texas include:
- Alleged failure to maintain appropriate professional boundaries
- Perceived ethical violations
- Inadequate documentation or record-keeping
- Dual relationships or conflicts of interest
- Allegations of discrimination or bias
- Misrepresentation of credentials
- Improper billing practices
- Confidentiality breaches
- Unprofessional behavior or demeanor
- Substance abuse or mental health concerns impacting professional competence
It’s important to recognize that even a single complaint against you can trigger a formal investigation. In some cases, your license could be suspended, restricted, or even revoked. By understanding what types of actions can lead to complaints, you can take proactive measures to avoid them and protect your career.
An experienced Texas professional counselor license consulting attorney will review your professional conduct to determine any areas where you may be vulnerable to a complaint.
What to Do if a Complaint has Been Filed Against Your Professional Counselor License
While preventing complaints is always the goal, our legal team is also here to support licensed counselors if an allegation has already been submitted to the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) or another disciplinary body. We’ll guide you through every step of the disciplinary process and advocate on your behalf to help achieve the best possible outcome.
Depending on the nature and severity of the complaint, you may face a variety of proceedings, such as:
- Informal settlement conferences
- Formal hearings before administrative law judges at the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH)
- Temporary or emergency suspension hearings
- Compliance reviews or monitoring requirements
Attempting to handle any of these proceedings without qualified legal representation is risky and could severely impact your ability to continue practicing.
Our team understands the nuances of professional licensing law and is committed to helping you present a strong defense. We will review every detail of your case and craft thoughtful arguments supporting your license.
Click to contact our Texas Professional Counselor License Defense Lawyers today
Steps Our Professional Counselor License Consulting Lawyers Serving Texas Will Take to Protect Your License
When you choose Bertolino LLP, we take a thorough and strategic approach to your case. Whether you’re proactively safeguarding your license or responding to a complaint, we take the following steps to support your defense:
- Comprehensive review: We’ll assess your professional history, including any previous complaints or disciplinary actions, as well as the facts related to the current issue.
- Legal research and strategy: We examine relevant Texas laws and BHEC regulations to determine how they apply to your case.
- Regulatory Compliance Guidance: We advise you on best practices for maintaining full compliance with licensing requirements and proper documentation.
- Representation in hearings: If a formal hearing is scheduled, we represent you throughout the proceedings, advocating vigorously for your right to practice.
In addition, we may recommend practical steps to further protect your professional standing, such as:
- Keeping meticulous and secure client records
- Avoiding dual relationships or unclear role boundaries
- Following all continuing education and reporting requirements
- Responding professionally and promptly to any BHEC inquiries
- Seeking supervision or peer consultation when dealing with complex cases
Being proactive and thorough in your practice can go a long way toward preventing licensing issues. With our legal team supporting you, you’ll be in a stronger position to defend your reputation and preserve your ability to continue helping your clients.
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Get Help from Our Knowledgeable Professional Counselor License Consulting Attorneys in Texas Today
Your license as a professional counselor is more than just a piece of paper. This license represents years of education, experience, and dedication to helping others.
If it’s put at risk, your livelihood and the care of your clients may be put in jeopardy. That’s why it’s crucial to act quickly and consult the team at Bertolino LLP at the first sign of trouble.
We are proud to support mental health professionals throughout the state of Texas. Whether you’re looking for preventive legal advice or facing a formal complaint, we’re here to help.
Contact us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your complimentary consultation. Let our experienced team review your case and provide you with the trusted legal support you need.
Call or text (512) 476-5757 or complete a Case Evaluation form
