Understanding the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists
The Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists (MSBESWMFT) oversees the licensing and regulation of social workers in the state of Mississippi. This board is responsible for ensuring standards of practice and ethical conduct among licensed social workers and therapists in MS.
The MSBESWMFT provides licensure to social workers at various levels within Mississippi. They also handle complaints, discipline, and continuing education approval. Understanding the role and functions of this board is important for licensed social workers practicing in Mississippi.
Mississippi Social Work Licensure Levels
The MSBESWMFT grants licenses for social workers in Mississippi at four levels:
- Licensed Social Worker (LSW) - Entry-level license to practice generalist social work.
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) - Graduate degree in social work required. Can practice without supervision.
- Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) - Clinical practice license requiring a graduate degree, exam, and supervised experience.
- Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) - Advanced independent clinical practice license.
Each license level has its own educational, exam, and experience requirements. The MSBESWMFT oversees the applications and licensing process for each tier of social work licensure in the state.
Requirements for Social Work Licensure in MS
To obtain licensure as a social worker in Mississippi, applicants must meet a number of requirements set by the MSBESWMFT. These include:
- Holding an approved social work degree at the appropriate level (BSW, MSW)
- Completing certain supervised practice hours
- Passing the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam
- Submitting an application with proof of eligibility
- Passing background checks
- Adhering to the Mississippi State Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapist Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
Continuing education requirements must also be met to renew active social work licenses on a periodic basis.
MSBESWMFT Disciplinary Actions & Complaints
Among its regulatory duties, the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists also oversees discipline for licensees. Violations of the board's Code of Ethics or state regulations can result in disciplinary action.
Some reasons disciplinary action may be taken include:
- Practicing outside the scope or limits of a license level
- Failure to meet continuing education requirements
- Unethical conduct or negligence
- Substance abuse or criminal violations
- Sexual misconduct
- False or misleading advertising
- Violating confidentiality standards
Complaints about a licensed social worker in Mississippi should be reported to the MSBESWMFT. The board will investigate and determine if disciplinary measures are warranted.
Maintaining a Social Work License with the MSBESWMFT
Once licensed by the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists, practitioners must ensure they remain in compliance with state regulations to maintain their license.
Renewing Your MS Social Work License
Social workers must periodically renew their Mississippi license with the MSBESWMFT. Renewal timelines depend on license level but are generally every 1-3 years.
To renew a social work license in Mississippi, licensees must:
- Submit a renewal application and pay required fee
- Attest that CE requirements were met
- Update contact and other information as needed
Licensees will receive reminders as their renewal date approaches. However, the responsibility lies with the licensee to ensure renewal requirements are fulfilled.
Continuing Education Requirements
Mississippi has CE requirements to maintain an active social work license. LSWs must complete 20 CE hours per year. LMSWs and LCSWs must complete 30 hours per renewal period. Certain subject requirements apply.
The MSBESWMFT reviews and approves acceptable CE providers and programs. Licensees are responsible for maintaining their own CE records in case of audit.
Updating Your License with the Board
Social workers must keep their contact and practice information current with the MSBESWMFT. This includes notifying them of:
- Address changes
- Employment changes
- Legal name changes
- Other status updates
Prompt notification ensures licensees receive important communications from the board. It also allows them to verify a social worker's license status if needed.
Resources Provided by the MSBESWMFT
In addition to licensing and oversight, the Mississippi Board of Examiners provides resources to support licensed social workers and applicants in the state.
License Lookup and Verification
The MSBESWMFT offers an online license lookup that allows anyone to verify the license status of a social worker in Mississippi. This helps identify valid license holders.
Applications and Forms
All applications for licensure and renewal are available on the MSBESWMFT website. Forms for updating license information can also be downloaded.
Exam Registration
The board provides information on registering for the ASWB social work licensing exams required in Mississippi.
Licensee Communication
The board publishes a quarterly newsletter and annual report to communicate news and updates to Mississippi licensees.
Laws, Rules, and Regulations
Key regulations, practice acts, laws, and board rules governing social workers are published online by the MSBESWMFT.
These resources help licensees and applicants understand the board's requirements and processes for maintaining a social work license in Mississippi.
Working with the MSBESWMFT as a Mississippi Social Worker
The Mississippi Board of Examiners for Social Workers and Marriage & Family Therapists provides oversight and regulation for licensed social work practice across the state. Understanding its role and functions is essential for social workers in Mississippi.
Key steps for successfully engaging with this regulatory board include:
- Reviewing licensure requirements before applying
- Maintaining licensure by renewing on time and meeting CE obligations
- Updating your license information with the board whenever changes occur
- Reading communications and resources provided by the board
- Reaching out for help if you have any questions
Following the board's regulations and requirements allows social workers to ethically serve their clients while maintaining an active license through the MSBESWMFT.
FAQs
What are the fees for social work licensure in Mississippi?
Initial licensing fees in Mississippi range from $25 (LSW) to $100 (LISW). Renewal fees are $25-$150 depending on license level. Full fee schedules are published on the MSBESWMFT website.
Does Mississippi use ASWB exam reciprocity?
Yes, Mississippi grants licensure by reciprocity to social workers holding a current license in another state, provided the licensure requirements were substantially equivalent to Mississippi’s.
Where do I submit my license application in Mississippi?
Social work license applications should be submitted online through the MSBESWMFT website portal or mailed to the board office at 239 N. Lamar St. Suite 402, Jackson, MS 39201.
How long does it take to get licensed in Mississippi?
It typically takes 1-2 months for the MSBESWMFT to process and approve a social work license application, provided all required items have been submitted.
Can I practice social work without a Mississippi license?
You generally cannot practice or advertise social work services in Mississippi without holding the appropriate license issued by the MSBESWMFT board.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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