At this point, most social work associates and MFT interns have heard about the planned changes to the LCSW and MFT exams in California. On a daily basis I am contacted with questions about how the Therapist Development Center is planning for these changes. Well, here’s some big news…
The BBS has just announced that there will be a delayed implementation of the LCSW and MFT exam changes. The new exams were scheduled to begin as of January 1, 2014 (it was already pushed back once from January 1, 2013). A new release date has not yet been announced however they did indicate that January 1, 2016, would be the earliest any changes would take place.
The announcement was made to stakeholders at the BBS Policy and Advocacy meeting on Thursday, April 18, 2013. Kim Madsen, Executive Officer of the Board of Behavioral Sciences, requested that the associations and agencies release this information to members and constituents. There should be something posted on the BBS website in the next month.
What is the reason for the delay? The BBS is developing computer software that will allow for on-line submission of LCSW and MFT applications for licensure. This software will be linked to exam eligibility. The BBS needs an adequate amount of time to complete and test the software to ensure that applications will be processed without any complications.
For those of you pre-licensed folks, this means that the current LCSW and MFT exam structure that consists of the standard written exam and clinical vignette exam taken after post-graduate hours are completed will be in place until at least 2016. So you can stop worrying about being caught in the crossover to the new exams and focus on getting your hours done.
Please pass this message along to your pre-licensed friends. And remember, the Therapist Development Center is here to help you study smart and pass with confidence!
On behalf of the TDC Team, we look forward to helping you pass.
Think our straightforward, sensible approach could help you PASS your social work or MFT exam? If you're preparing for a social work exam, check out our Social Work Study Materials. If you're preparing for an MFT exam, check out our MFT Study Materials. Learn more about our offerings at The Therapist Development Center.
Looking for more practice questions and some study tips? Check out our new Social Work Exam Study Guide:
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