When Good Intentions Lead to Bad Policy: Why the BBS Needs Therapist Feedback – An Interview with Dr. Benjamin E. Caldwell, LMFT

Curt and Katie talk with Dr. Benjamin E. Caldwell about the California BBS’s new regulatory proposals and why several well-intended ideas may actually undermine therapist education and professional standards. We discuss the proposal to award CE hours simply for providing supervision, giving CE credit for passive activities, concerns about codifying the licensing exam vendor, and the surprising reason behind the upcoming four-year fee reduction. Ben breaks down what therapists need to know—and how to make their voices heard during the public comment period.

About Our Guest: Dr. Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD, LMFT

Benjamin E. Caldwell, PsyD is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Adjunct Faculty for California State University Northridge. He is the author of Basics of California Law for LMFTs, LPCCs, and LCSWs and the lead author of AAMFT’s Best Practices in the Online Practice of Couple and Family Therapy. His company, High Pass Education, provides exam prep and continuing education for mental health professionals.

Key Takeaways for Therapists

• Why the BBS’s proposed changes matter for therapists in and beyond California
• Concerns about awarding CE for providing supervision instead of structured learning
• How CE requirements may shift toward passive or non-educational activities
• Issues with naming Pearson VUE in regulation
• Why BBS fees will be reduced for four years
• How therapists can participate in the public comment period to influence policy

Full show notes and transcript available at mtsgpodcast.com

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Voice Over by DW McCann – https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/
Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano – https://groomsymusic.com/