Kansas Social Workers: Seven Mistakes That Could You Your License

If you ask a licensee why he or she decided to become a social worker, the most common reply is often the desire to help others. Social workers, by their very nature, are caring individuals who have spent countless hours between their education and training to be able to help clients grow and improve their life situations. However, one misstep can not only land a licensee in hot water with the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board but can also subject a license to possible criminal charges. The following are some of the most common “sin”s licensees commit:

  1. Failure to Complete Renewal/Application Requirements: A simple way to avoid problems with the Board is to make sure that you have met all requirements for renewing and maintaining your license. This includes paying all fees and completing all required continuing education classes.
  2. Practicing without a License: A licensee who fails to renew his or her license on a timely basis risks having the license expire. A licensee who continues to engage in the profession on an expired license risks discipline for practicing without a license.
  3. Fraud in Obtaining License: A social worker is a position that is based on trust and integrity. Misrepresenting information on an application for licensure or using fraud or bribery to obtain a license is grounds for discipline. If you are in the process of applying for a license and unsure if you need to disclose sensitive information, make an appointment to speak with a professional license defense attorney.
  4. Sharing Client Confidences: Revealing a client’s secrets or any information that the client shared with you violates a social worker’s professional ethics and can expose you up to disciplinary actions by the Board. Licensees also need to be aware of their obligations under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.
  5. Improper Physical Contact with a Client: Social workers, like other therapists and health care workers, share close contacts with clients. Licensees who engage in physical intimacies with a client or make sexual advances towards a client, not only blur the lines of professional integrity but also place their license in serious jeopardy.
  6. Improper Treatment of a Client: Maltreatment of a client, student or subordinate by a licensee is considered unprofessional conduct. A license is prohibited from discriminating against a client on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, disability, or national origin.
  7. Conviction of a Felony: A licensee who receives a felony conviction is at serious risk of having his or her license suspended or revoked. It is important to make note that in Kansas, a third DUI conviction is considered a felony if the second conviction occurred within the previous 10 years.

If you are a licensed social worker who has received notice of an investigation by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board, you need an experienced license defense attorney on your side. The Sanger Law Office focuses its practice on defending professionals whose licenses have come under attack. Attorney Danielle Sanger understands that disciplinary matters can affect a licensee’s livelihood and reputation and will thusly make it her priority to bring your matter to a quick resolution.  We invite you to call us today 785-979-4353 to schedule your free and completely confidential consultation.

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