Article archive / October 1, 2014
Originally published: . Volume 5, No. 14. Source pages: 6.
The new Rules for psychologists’ continuing education became law last October 2013 and began to take effort for the reporting period starting July 1, 2014. Those with even-numbered licenses are now able to include new categories of education and “Continuing professional development (CPD) activities” as sources of education that apply to meeting the requirements for a license.
The new Rules note, “A. For the reporting periods that begin July 2014 and July 2015, each psychologist is required to complete 30 hours or credits of continuing professional development within the biennial reporting period. The CPD credits must conform to the percentage distribution requirements listed below in Subsection C. For the reporting periods that begin July 2016 and July 2017 and henceforth, 40 credits of continuing professional development will be required in the biennial reporting period and the hours must conform to the distribution listed below in Subsection C.”
There does not appear to be directions about percentages, but the Rules indicate that the psychologist must obtain his or her units from “at least two of the nine categories listed…” These nine are peer consultation, practice outcome monitoring, professional activities, conferences/conventions, academic courses, instruction, publications, traditional continuing education, and self-directed learning.
The October 2013 Rule change also removed the exemption for those with Emeritus status. Prior to the October 2013 change, the wording included a listing under §811. Extensions/ Exemptions that noted: “D. Licensees approved by the board for emeritus status are exempted from the continuing education requirements.”
This exemption no longer appears in the current Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC) rules on Exemptions. Also, there does not appear to be a grandfathering clause. It is not clear when those with Emeritus status will have to begin their educational requirements or when they will report them.
At its February 2014 meeting members of the Louisiana Board of Examiners of Psychologists discussed the issue. “Dr. Culross moved to keep the qualifications for emeritus alone as is (sic) but require CE via rule promulgation.” The Board discussed the motion and it passed by roll call with no opposition, noted the minutes.
The Times has requested an interview with the board to clarify this and other regulatory issues and decisions but the requests have been declined.
Emeritus psychologists should contact the board if they have questions.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.