Continuing Education for MFTs - Expectations

Year after year, there are always several licensees that have questions on their continuing education obligations. It can be difficult keeping up with the latest expectations of one's continuing education.

Every state has different CE requirements. These requirements may change over time. It is very important to be aware of the latest rendition of one's state rules and regulations. Each licensed MFT should review their state board's rules and regulations posted on the board's website each renewal period to learn of any possible changes.

There are many online ceu providers that offer courses to meet the MFT continuing education requirements for each state. Most providers are not approved in every state. Because of this, it is vital to know if the provider is approved to offer CEUs for MFTs in your state. A good CE provider will list each state board and corresponding provider number on their website to indicate approval status.

The list below provides ideas of how to stay abreast of any updates to one's state board's CE rules and regulations:

--Find the various methods of contacting your state board (phone #, web address, mailing address, etc.).

--Ask to be added to your state board's mailing list for any newsletters or other communication methods of updates.

--Identify a CE provider that gives access to the various state board's websites via links. These providers may also provide links to the national board's websites from which they have obtained approval. This information should be located on the ceu provider's website. Most providers lack this feature. The one's that do supply a value-added benefit.

--Don't procrastinate. Get started well before the expiration date of your license. This will allow you time to research any unrealized requirements and complete them in a timely manner. You can also use the extra time to select courses that will challenge you beyond your current abilities, and not just settle for courses you are already comfortable with. There is no reason to put yourself into panic mode because you waited to long to get started. Think and plan ahead.

Aspira is a leader in online CEUs for MFT continuing education. Access all course documents for free at http://www.aspirace.com.