IN THIS ISSUE
Board Chair Update .......................................... 1
Law Changes Overview for 2022 ................2
Regulation Changes ........................................3
Status of Temporary Law Waivers Due
to COVID-19 .......................................................4
2022 Legislation Updates ..............................4
Stay Informed About What's Happening
with the BBS ......................................................5
Importance of Maintaining a Valid Email
Address with the Board ..................................5
Supervisor Self-Assessment Report:
A One-Time Report Required for All
Supervisors ........................................................6
Supervisory Plan: Newly Required for
Supervisees Pursuing LMFT Licensure ......6
Online is Easier and Faster ...........................6
New Board Vice Chair Elected ..................... 7
Board Member Departures ............................8
U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on
Youth Mental Health Crisis ............................ 8
BBS Executive Ocer Appointed ................9
BBS Mission Statement ................................... 9
No Surprises Act: Changes to Federal Law
that Aect BBS Licensees ............................ 10
Can BBS Issue an Approval to Take the
AMFTRB Exam? ............................................... 10
Explanation of Disciplinary Terms
and Actions ...................................................... 10
Citations ............................................................. 11
Formal Disciplinary Actions ......................... 12
Upcoming Meeting Dates .......................Back
VOL. 7 NO. 1
BOARD CHAIR UPDATE
As we enter the new year, still facing the
pandemic, the adaptability and resiliency of our
licensees and Board sta I have seen over the
last year makes me hopeful for the future. We
have all had to face the challenge of learning how
to function dierently in this world. At the same
time, we had to ensure the health and safety of
our families, clients, communities, and ourselves.
My hope is that we keep a positive outlook and
realize that we have learned some valuable
lessons while meeting these challenges. As this
is the first newsletter of the year, there are many things to announce.
BBS is excited to announce that Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Board member Crystal Anthony was elected vice chair at the Board’s
February meeting. Congratulations, Crystal!
I am excited to announce that Marlon McManus has filled the vacant
Assistant Executive Ocer position. Marlon’s background has been a Sta
Services Manager I at the Consumer Complaint and Investigations Unit
for the last six years. Prior to his management position, he functioned as
an Enforcement Analyst for the Board for over seven years investigating
consumer complaints. I am confident that Marlon’s knowledge, vision, and
dedication will assist the Board in reaching our goals.
With the beginning of the new year there were many laws that went into
eect. Assembly Bill (AB) 462 removed the requirement that applicants
for Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) licensure must gain
at least 150 hours of clinical experience in a hospital or community mental
health setting, and removed the requirement that LPCCs must gain certain
marriage and family therapy coursework and experience hours to assess
or treat couples or families. AB 468 established requirements for all
health care practitioners (including Board licensees and registrants) when
providing documentation relating to an individual’s need for an emotional
support dog. The complete text of AB 690 further clarified the Board’s
practice-setting definitions and contained some changes to supervision
requirements. In addition, many requirements pertaining to supervision were
made to the Board’s regulations.
Max Disposti
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF
BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
2
BOARD CHAIR UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
This year, the Board will initiate the BBS 2022–2026 Strategic Plan. This plan was a culmination of input from Board
members, sta, and stakeholders. With the help of the Department of Consumer Aairs’ SOLID Planning Unit, the Board
developed goals and objectives that will guide us through the next four years. These goals addressed the need for
consumer protection, the changing dynamics of delivery modalities, the need for equality and inclusiveness, and the
need for a culturally responsive mental health workforce that can meet the demands of Californians. I would like to thank
all who participated in this eort.
As we move through the new year, the Board will continue to meet virtually with the hopes of meeting in person soon.
Because we have recognized an increase in participation from the public since we have webcasted our meetings, we
will seek to have hybrid meetings to still allow the public to participate remotely.
We hope to see you in the new year. Please stay healthy and safe!
Max Disposti
Board Chair
CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
2022 LAW CHANGES
BOARDSPONSORED LEGISLATION
• AB 690 (Arambula): Practice Setting Definitions
and Supervision Law Change
This clarifies where pre-licensees may work by
providing specific definitions of private practice,
professional corporation, and non-exempt settings.
This bill also made several changes applicable
to supervisors of supervisees in a private practice,
professional corporation, or other non-exempt setting.
Status: Signed by the governor (Chapter 747,
Statutes of 2021) and took eect January 1, 2022.
More information about this new law is available on the
Board’s website. The complete text of AB 690 can be
found here.
• SB 801 (Archuleta): Omnibus Bill: LMFT Scope of
Practice; Notice to Consumers and More
This extends the Board’s sunset date to January 1, 2026.
It also modernizes and clarifies the scope of practice for
licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs). The Board
had a “support” position on those two provisions of the bill.
Additionally, the Board sponsored the portion of the bill
that makes several minor, technical, and nonsubstantive
amendments to add clarity and consistency to its current
licensing law. This includes an update to the text required
to be provided in the notice to consumers, a requirement
for licensees, registrants, and applicants to provide their
email address to the Board by July 1, 2022, requiring
education in prognosis for LMFT and LPCC licensure, and
permitting LCSWs to obtain CE from a school accredited
by the U.S. Department of Education or approved by
the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, and a
clarification in regard to provision of telehealth services.
Status: Signed by the governor (Chapter 647, Statutes of
2021) and took eect January 1, 2022, with some provisions.
More information about this new law is available on the
Board’s website. Information about the update to the
required notice to consumers is available here.
The complete text of SB 801 can be found here.
BOARDSUPPORTED LEGISLATION
• AB 462 (Carrillo): Licensed Professional Clinical
Counselor Act
This removed the following requirements for LPCC
licensure:
• The requirement to gain at least 150 hours of clinical
experience in a hospital or community mental health
setting.
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
3
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
LAW CHANGES FOR 2022 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2
• The requirement that LPCCs must complete additional
education, supervised experience, and continuing
education related to marriage and family therapy to
treat couples or families.
Status: Signed by the governor (Chapter 440, Statutes
of 2021) and took eect January 1, 2022.
More information about this new law is available on the
Board’s website. The complete text of AB 462 can be
found here.
• AB 468 (Friedman): Emotional Support Animals
This bill requires a health care practitioner who provides
documentation about an individual’s need for an
emotional support dog to comply with certain specified
criteria.
Status: Signed by the governor (Chapter 168, Statutes
of 2021) and took eect January 1, 2022.
More information about this new law is available on the
Board’s website. The complete text of AB 468 can be
found here.
REGULATION CHANGES
Supervision-Related Regulations
The Board’s supervision-related regulation changes took
eect January 1, 2022. The new regulations apply to
anyone gaining hours of supervised experience toward
licensure as an LPCC, LCSW, or LMFT. This includes
associates, applicants for associate registration, and MFT
trainees, but does not include students pursuing LCSW or
LPCC licensure. The regulations also apply to licensees
who are supervising individuals gaining experience toward
licensure.
Detailed information about these new regulations is
available on the Board’s website. A summary of the
changes:
• Specifies the documentation required when a supervisor
passes away or becomes incapacitated before they
have signed an Experience Verification form.
• Establishes a new Supervision Agreement form, which
must be completed for new supervisory relationships
that form on or after January 1, 2022.
• Changes the text required to be included in the
Written Oversight Agreement for new supervisory
relationships that form on or after January 1, 2022.
• Sets forth requirements for situations where supervisees
have been placed in a work setting by a temporary
stang agency.
• Mandates several new supervisor responsibilities.
• Requires a Supervisor Self-Assessment report to be
submitted to the Board.
• Addresses requirements for temporary substitute
supervisors.
• Modifies supervisor training and coursework
requirements.
• Requires an LMFT Supervisory Plan for individuals
gaining experience toward LMFT licensure, regardless
of when the supervisory relationship was established.
• Requires individuals gaining experience toward LCSW
licensure maintain a log of experience hours to be
signed by the supervisor weekly, for hours gained on or
after January 1, 2022.
4
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
STATUS OF TEMPORARY LAW
WAIVERS DUE TO COVID19
Pursuant to the governor’s Executive Order N-39-20,
during the current state of emergency, the director of the
Department of Consumer Aairs may waive statutory or
regulatory requirements for a professional license issued
pursuant to Division 2 of the Business and Professions
Code (BPC). This includes professional licenses issued
by BBS. Information about relevant waivers, executive
orders, and any updates or extensions will continue to
be listed on the home page of the Board’s website and
sent out to our email subscriber’s list.
Most of the Board’s law waivers expired on October 31, 2021.
However, the following two remain in eect at the time of
publishing (sign up for the Board’s email subscribers’ list
or watch our website for updates):
1. Face-to-Face Training and Supervision Requirements
This waiver allows associates in any setting to gain
their required weekly supervisor contact via two-way,
real-time videoconferencing (phone supervision is
not permitted). Current law does not specifically
address supervision of trainees via telehealth; however,
the Board is interpreting the law to also allow trainees
to receive supervision via telehealth. It remains the
responsibility of the supervisor and the school
to determine if supervision via telehealth is appropriate
for a trainee given individual circumstances.
In addition, this waiver clarifies that trainees are not
required to provide face-to-face mental health
services to earn practicum hours.
This waiver was recently extended, eective from the
beginning of the social distancing order (March 2020),
until June 30, 2022.
2. Waiver of Laws Requiring Individuals Reactivating
or Restoring a Retired, Inactive, or Canceled License
to Complete Continuing Education and Pay a Renewal
or Delinquency Fee
This waiver permits a retired, inactive, or canceled
licensee who wishes to restore their license to help
with the current state of emergency to do so during
this time without being subject to the normally required
continuing education requirements and renewal and
delinquency fees. This only applies to individuals whose
license has been retired, inactive, or canceled for no
more than five years.
A reactivated or restored license will be valid until
April 1, 2022, or when the state of emergency ends,
whichever is sooner.
Visit the following link for more information:
https://covid-19.dca.ca.gov/backToActive
CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR A PAST RENEWAL
PERIOD MUST BE COMPLETED BY APRIL 1
The waiver of continuing education (CE) requirements to
renew a license has now ended. This waiver was available
to all licensees whose license expired between
March 31, 2020, and October 31, 2021.
Although the waiver allowed licensees to renew without
completing required CE, licensees remain responsible for
completing the CE required for past renewal periods. The
Board reminds all licensees that they must complete all CE
for past renewal periods by April 1, 2022. Failure to do so
will result in a citation and/or a fine if you are audited.
Please also keep in mind that CE courses taken to fulfill the
requirements of a past renewal cycle will not count toward
the required CE for your current renewal cycle.
2022 LEGISLATION UPDATES
• AB 1758 (Aguiar-Curry): Board of Behavioral Sciences:
Marriage and Family Therapists: Clinical Social
Workers: Professional Clinical Counselors: Supervision
of Applicants for Licensure via Videoconferencing
This bill would allow required weekly supervision via
two-way, real-time videoconferencing in all settings,
if the supervisor makes an assessment that this is
appropriate. The Board approved this proposal at its
November 5, 2021, meeting. The bill is being run as
urgency legislation, meaning that if the governor signs
it, it will become eective immediately upon his signing.
• AB 1759 (Aguiar-Curry): Board of Behavioral Sciences:
Licensees and Registrants: Marriage and Family
Therapy, Educational Psychology, Clinical Social Work,
and Professional Clinical Counseling
This bill proposes two changes to the Board’s continuing
education requirements:
CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
5
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
The Board strongly encourages all licensees,
associates, and individuals in the exam process to
ensure that their current email address is on file with
the Board. The email address you provide will NOT
be disclosed to the public.
This is important for everyone, but especially
registrants working on passing the Law and Ethics
exams and the LMFT Clinical exam. This is because
they are notified of approval to test via email by
Pearson Vue. Without an email address on file, they
may not be notified how to register and schedule
the exam.
HOW TO ADD OR UPDATE YOUR
EMAIL ADDRESS
You can easily add or update your
email by accessing “Change of
Address Application” in the
drop-down menu under “Manage
Your License” on BreEZe.
EMAIL ADDRESS WILL BE REQUIRED
STARTING JULY 1, 2022
Eective July 1, a new law requires all licensees,
registrants, and applicants who have an email
address will be required to provide it to the Board.
The Board must be notified of any changes to the
email address within 30 days of the change.
IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING
A VALID EMAIL ADDRESS WITH
THE BOARD
• Applicants for licensure and current licensees to
complete three hours of training or coursework in
the provision of mental health services via telehealth,
including law and ethics related to telehealth, as a
one-time requirement.
• All Board registrants complete a three-hour continuing
education course in California law and ethics each
renewal cycle.
In addition, the proposal clarifies that certain
pre-licensees may provide services with clients via
telehealth. The Board approved a portion of this
proposal at its September 10, 2021, meeting, and a
portion of the proposal at its November 5, 2021, meeting.
• Omnibus Bill Proposal (Senate Business,
Professions and Economic Development
Committee (No Bill Number Assigned at This Time)
This bill proposal, approved by the Board at its
November 5 meeting, makes minor, technical, or
nonsubstantive amendments to add clarity and
consistency to current law.
STAY INFORMED ABOUT WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH BBS!
Are you an applicant, registrant, licensee, or consumer who would like increased access to BBS activities and updates?
Join our email subscriber’s list! You can also follow the Board on Facebook and Twitter. Click on a graphic or go to
www.bbs.ca.gov to connect!
EMAIL
SUBSCRIBERS
LIST
2022 LEGISLATION UPDATES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
6
SUPERVISOR SELFASSESSMENT
REPORT: A ONETIME
REPORT REQUIRED FOR ALL
SUPERVISORS
As part of the Board’s recently approved
supervision-related regulations, all licensees supervising
an individual gaining hours of experience toward LMFT,
LCSW or LPCC licensure must complete and submit a
Supervisor Self-Assessment Report to the board. The
purpose of the report is to arm the licensee’s
qualifications to be a supervisor. The Board has developed
a form, which includes instruction for completion and
submission, now available on the Board’s website.
Requirements for submission of the new Supervisor
Self-Assessment Report is phased in as follows:
• Licensees currently supervising one or more
supervisees as of January 1, 2022: Must submit
a Supervisor Self-Assessment Report to the Board
by January 1, 2023.
• Licensees NOT supervising as of January 1, 2022:
Must submit a Supervisor Self-Assessment Report
to the board within 60 days of commencing
supervision.
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
ONLINE IS EASIER AND FASTER!
A Variety of Online Services Available via BreEZe
For faster service, manage your registration and license
online! BreEZe provides services for applicants, registrants,
and licensees that can save you weeks of processing time
compared to paper applications. Services available include
the ability to:
• Renew a license or registration instantly
(up to 90 days in advance).
• Submit an address change (takes eect instantly).
• Request a replacement registration or license
(allow two weeks for delivery).
• Verify a license and obtain proof of renewal status.
• Obtain a certification of licensure.
• Apply for your initial Law and Ethics Exam.
• Submit an application to change from Inactive
to Active status.
• Pay with a major credit card in a secure environment.
Consumer complaints can also be filed on BreEZe.
Visit www.breeze.ca.gov.
HELPFUL TIPS
If you are new to the Board’s online services, there are
tutorial videos available to help you (select “Help Tutorials”
on www.breeze.ca.gov). Tutorial videos include:
• An overview of BreEZe services.
• How to search for a license.
• How to register for BreEZe.
• What to do if you forgot your password or user ID.
• How to submit a renewal.
• How to update license information.
• How to make a payment.
If you need additional assistance using BreEZe, technical
support can be reached at (855) 227-9633.
SUPERVISORY PLAN: NEWLY
REQUIRED FOR SUPERVISEES
PURSUING LMFT LICENSURE
A supervisor who provides supervision to any person
gaining experience toward LMFT licensure is now
required by law to complete and sign a supervisory plan
that describes the goals and objectives of supervision,
as described below:
• For supervisory relationships established PRIOR
TO January 1, 2022, if supervision is continuing past
January 1, 2022:
Complete the Supervisory Plan for LMFT
Supervisees. Do NOT submit it to the Board. The
supervisor and supervisee shall retain it for their
records.
• For supervisory relationships established ON OR
AFTER January 1, 2022 (for all types of supervisees):
Use the Supervisory Plan form that is contained within
the required Supervision Agreement.
7
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
NEW BOARD VICE CHAIR ELECTED
We congratulate Crystal Anthony on her
election as vice chair of the Board of
Behavioral Sciences! Ms. Anthony is an LCSW
who was first appointed to the Board by the
governor in October 2019, and is a therapist at
the Program for Torture Victims, and
co-executive director for Underground GRIT.
BBS WELCOMES NEW
BOARD MEMBERS
Yvette Casares Willis was appointed by
the governor as a public member of the
Board in January 2021. After a 15-year
career in professional sports, focusing
on communications, public and private
partnerships, and community outreach, she
worked with major corporations to support
early-stage startups from all backgrounds, industries, and
regions around the world. Casares Willis left her position
as director of partnerships for MassChallenge to relocate
from Texas to California. She was senior sales executive of
corporate partnerships for the Houston Dynamo Major League
Soccer Club from 2015 to 2018. Casares WIllis was senior
sales executive at Bualo Specialties from 2013 to 2015. She
was director of premium seat sales and director of corporate
sponsorships at Live Nation Entertainment from 2008 to 2011.
Casares Willis was director of premium club sales for the
Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics from 2007 to 2008. She
was advertising sales manager for the Houston Astros from
2000 to 2007. Casares Willis brings bilingual stakeholder
engagement and consensus-building skills to her new position
and looks forward to helping solve the challenges put before
the BBS Board. Wanting to become a contributing member
of her new community, Casares Willis actively sought this
opportunity believing nothing is currently more important to
Californians and their communities than mental health. Casares
Willis is the vice president of membership of Texas Lyceum and
is president of the San Francisco Bay Area Texas Execs Alumni
Association. She earned a bachelor's degree in fine arts from
the University of Texas at Austin.
Justin Huft was appointed by the governor
as an LMFT member of the Board in
September 2021. He has been an LMFT and
clinical program director at Creative Care
Calabasas since 2016, adjunct lecturer for
the Psychology and Sociology Departments
at California State University, Fullerton, since 2016 and
adjunct lecturer for the Psychology Department at El Camino
Community College since 2018. He was an adjunct lecturer in
psychological sciences at the University of California, Irvine,
from 2019 to 2020, and in psychology at Saddleback College
from 2016 to 2018. He is a member of the California Marriage
and Family Therapy Association, American Association of
Marriage and Family Therapists, American Sociological
Association, and Pacific Sociological Association. He earned
a Master of Arts degree in marriage and family therapy from
Chapman University and a Master of Arts degree in sociology
from Arizona State University.
Abigail D. Ortega was appointed by the
governor as an LCSW member of the
Board in November 2021. Ortega has
been an LCSW at Love Listen and Play, a
psychotherapy private practice, since 2016.
Ortega was a licensed clinical social worker
at the Wilmington Community Clinic from
2016 to 2021 and at Counseling4Kids from 2017 to 2020. She
was a medical social worker at the Children’s Clinic from 2014
to 2015. Ortega held several positions at Children’s Institute
Inc. from 2011 to 2014, including therapist II and Clinical
Domestic Violence Team lead. She was a psychiatric social
worker at the Child Center of New York from 2010 to 2011.
Dr. Annette Walker was appointed by the
governor as a public member of the Board
in November 2021. She has served as a
school board member at Hayward Unified
School District from 2012 to 2020, where she
was personnel commissioner from 2010 to
2011. Dr. Walker was diversity and inclusion
ocer at Life Chiropractic College West from 2020 to 2021.
She was director of graduate admissions and Kaleidoscope
Mentoring Program coordinator at California State University,
East Bay, from 2005 to 2019. She was a psychology
instructor and general counselor at Chabot College from
1999 to 2004, where she was a psychology instructor from
1998 to 1999. Dr. Walker was a bilingual elementary school
teacher at Ravenswood City School District from 1993 to
1997. She earned a Master of Science degree in education
and psychological studies from California State University,
East Bay, and a Doctor of Education degree in organization
and leadership from the University of San Francisco. She
was a delegate for the California School Board Association,
representing California's seventh district, and Legislative
Committee member.
8
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
BOARD MEMBER DEPARTURES
It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to three Board
members who will be greatly missed.
Christina Wong served as an LCSW Board
member from May of 2011 to November
2021. She served as Board chair from
May 2013 to May 2014, and was elected
as Board chair in May 2014, serving until
May 2016. She was again elected as vice
chair in June 2020, serving until November
2021. Ms. Wong sat on many committees, including the
Out-of-State Education Committee, the Continuing Education
Appeals Committee, the Exempt Setting Committee, the
Licensing Portability Committee, the Policy and Advocacy
Committee, the Telehealth Committee, the Licensing
Committee and the Sunset Review Committee. Her
leadership and thoughtful contributions resulted in proposals
that significantly modernized and strengthened California
law. Her dedication during her tenure has been incredible
and we thank her for her hard work in every task she
took on.
Deborah Brown served as a public Board
member from August 2012 to November
2021. She was elected vice chair in May
2014, serving until May 2016, and was
elected chair in June 2016, serving until
May 2018. She sat on several committees,
including the Out-of-State Education
Committee, the Exempt Setting Committee, the Policy and
Advocacy Committee and the Sunset Review Committee.
Under her leadership, the Board undertook significant
projects that led to transformative changes in California law.
The perspective and insights she shared via her background
as an educator was extremely helpful, and we thank her for
her thoughtfulness and excellent contributions.
Jonathan Maddox served as an LMFT
Board member from September 2017 to
September 2021. He sat on the Policy and
Advocacy Committee. He provided greatly
valued insights from his background in
public mental health and in private practice.
We are grateful for the article he wrote
for the Board’s 2019 newsletter about the importance of
building cross-racial relationships from his perspective as
a Black American. It was the first-ever article addressing
racial issues in a BBS newsletter. We are grateful for his
contributions in this area and for his service to the Board.
U.S. SURGEON GENERAL’S
ADVISORY ON YOUTH
MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS
In December 2021, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek
Murthy released an advisory on the youth mental health
crisis further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The advisory outlines actionable steps for health
leaders, community organizations, and governments to
protect youth mental health.
“Mental health challenges in children, adolescents, and
young adults are real and widespread. Even before
the pandemic, an alarming number of young people
struggled with feelings of helplessness, depression, and
thoughts of suicide—and rates have increased over the
past decade,” Murthy said. “The COVID-19 pandemic
further altered their experiences at home, school, and
in the community, and the eect on their mental health
has been devastating. The future wellbeing of our
country depends on how we support and invest in the
next generation. Especially in this moment, as we work
to protect the health of Americans in the face of a new
variant, we also need to focus on how we can emerge
stronger on the other side. This advisory shows us how
we can all work together to step up for our children
during this dual crisis.”
The complete advisory can be found at www.hhs.
gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth-
mental-health/index.html.
9
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
BBS EXECUTIVE OFFICER APPOINTED
A belated congratulations
to Steve Sodergren,
who was appointed as
executive ocer in March
2021! Steve had been
serving as the interim
executive ocer since
the retirement of former
Executive Ocer Kim
Madsen in December
2020. Prior to his
appointment, Steve served
as assistant executive
ocer for BBS since
2012. In that role, he was
responsible for planning,
organizing, directing, and
administering all activities of the Board’s programs and
operations, ensuring the Board fulfilled its mandate
of consumer protection and mental health access for
all Californians.
The Department of Consumer Aairs’ Consumer
Connection magazine interviewed Steve to get to
know him.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BEST MEMORIES
OF YOUR JOBS PRIOR TO THIS ONE?
In a previous position, I reviewed trademarks and
service marks using a file card system, which was
interesting but tedious. I also worked as a land
agent for the California Department of Water
Resources and worked on wetland restoration
projects. Lastly, I managed a toy store—there is
nothing like getting paid to play.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE BOARD?
I want the Board to be a model agency when it
comes to consumer protection for mental health
services. Additionally, I want the Board to be a
model agency statewide when it comes to
customer service and educating consumers
and licensees.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
My biggest challenges are ensuring that the Board is
addressing the changes that are occurring in the
mental health industry in a timely manner, such as
telemedicine, and determining how we can assist to
create a mental health workforce that can match the
needs of all Californians.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE CONSUMERS TO KNOW
ABOUT THE BOARD?
We are here to serve you and we appreciate hearing
your voices.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR JOB?
Mostly, working with my dedicated and top-notch
sta. They make this job easier to handle. I also enjoy
interacting with Board members and stakeholders in
addressing issues, and crafting policies that will
ensure more accessible and competent mental
health services for all Californians.
WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN?
I like to cook, read profusely, and especially like the
down time with my loving family.
WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ THAT
WASN’T WORKRELATED?
Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Marcia
Marquez and Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the
American City. I like to have two books going at once.
WHAT’S ON YOUR MUSIC PLAYLIST?
A better question might be, “What’s not on my
playlist?” John Coltrane, Balkan Beat Box, Green
Day, Andy Mineo, and classical are among my
recent listens.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR
YOUNGER SELF?
Slow down and listen, learn, and love. Stay present:
This moment is precious.
Steve Sodergren
MISSION STATEMENT
THE BOARD’S MISSION IS TO PROTECT AND SERVE CALIFORNIANS BY SETTING, COMMUNICATING,
AND ENFORCING STANDARDS FOR SAFE AND COMPETENT MENTAL HEALTH PRACTICE.
10
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
NO SURPRISES ACT:
CHANGES TO FEDERAL LAW
THAT AFFECT BBS LICENSEES
Recent changes have been made to the federal No
Surprises Act that aect licensed health care providers.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
(a federal entity) has put out information on its website
regarding the Act:
• General website for the No Surprises Act:
https://www.cms.gov/nosurprises
• Information for providers: https://www.cms.gov/
nosurprises/policies-and-resources/provider-
requirements-and-resources
• About good faith estimates: https://www.cms.gov/
nosurprises/consumers/understanding-costs-in-
advance
Visit https://www.cms.gov/files/document/model-
disclosure-notice-patient-protections-against-surprise-
billing-providers-facilities-health.pdf for more information
about patient rights under federal law.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Center
for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight, now
has authority to enter into collaborative enforcement
agreements with the California Department of Insurance
and the California Department of Managed Health Care
to ensure consumers are properly notified of their billing
rights and have a process to resolve billing disputes.
Surprise Medical Bills Fact Sheet for consumers:
https://dmhc.ca.gov/portals/0/healthcareincalifornia/
factsheets/fsab72.pdf
CAN BBS ISSUE AN APPROVAL
TO TAKE THE AMFTRB EXAM?
BBS does not use or oer the Association Marriage and
Family Therapist Regulatory Board (AMFTRB) exam at
this time. However, we receive frequent inquiries about
how to sign up for this exam, or how to gain approval to
take it. Because the Board does not use the AMFTRB
exam for California licensure, we cannot issue approvals
to take this exam. If you or someone you know wants to
take the AMFTRB exam, the best approach would be to
determine another state you want to become licensed
in, and read the requirements for licensure in that state.
If that state requires the AMFTRB exam (and many do),
you may be able to gain eligibility to take the exam after
meeting that state’s requirements. More information
about other states’ requirements can be found at
www.amftrb.org/state-requirements.
EXPLANATION OF DISCIPLINARY
TERMS AND ACTIONS
Accusation—Formal statement of charges against the
registrant/licensee.
Statement of Issues—Formal statement of reasons why
an application for registration/license should be denied.
Eective Date—The date the disciplinary decision goes
into eect.
Revoked—The registration/license is canceled, voided,
rescinded. The right to practice is terminated.
Revoked, Stayed, Probation—“Stayed” means the
revocation is postponed. Professional practice may
continue so long as the registrant/licensee complies with
specific probationary terms and conditions. Violation of
probation may result in the revocation that was postponed.
Suspension—The registrant/licensee is prohibited from
practicing for a specific period of time.
License Surrender—To resolve a disciplinary action,
the registrant/licensee has given up his or her registration/
license—subject to acceptance by the Board. The right to
practice is terminated.
11
ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS
Citation and Fine—An administrative action used for minor violations. Citations and fines are public information but are not
considered disciplinary action.
ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS January 2021 – May 2021
Name License Number Fine Amount
Martinez, Adam Albert LMFT 96303 $500
Nosrati, Helen LMFT 42902 $2,000
Scott-Haines, Erin K LPCC 644 $2,000
Steinberg, Lynn LPCC 644 $1,000
ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS June 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021
Name License Number Fine Amount
Abadi, Nicole Negar LMFT 99692 $500
Arballo, Ruby Unlicensed $5,000
Brinkley-Kennedy, Rhonda Fay LMFT 24823 $2,000
Chen, Annie LMFT 80025 $500
Cofer, Katharine Shurtle LMFT 35856 $500
Coleman, Kennita Unlicensed $1,500
Davalos, Christian LMFT 52340 $500
Hurt, Patricia Ann LCSW 17080 $500
Leinweber, Theresa J. LMFT 45157 $1,000
McDaniel, Arrikia Rene LCSW 81996 $500
Moon Perez, Claudia Suzanne LMFT 31370 $1,500
Pfitzer, Pamela LMFT 16539 $750
Polk, Donald Wayne AMFT 95860
Citation —no fine
Shafer, Robert F. LMFT 19148 $1,000
Tarquinio, Tiziana Unlicensed Citation—no fine
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
12
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
FORMAL DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS JANUARY 2021MAY 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
Lisa Alcala
LMFT 40624
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: March 10, 2021
Nicole Christine Aragon
ASW 65297
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: February 15, 2021
Krystyne Armenta
ASW 70628
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: April 8, 2021
Bijan Babaeian
AMFT 108730
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: April 8, 2021
Karine Babayan
AMFT 106816
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Action: Registration revoked,
revocation stayed, and placed on
probation for a period of four (4) years
with terms and conditions.
Eective: April 26, 2021
Nathan Zane Bevens
ASW 75856
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: March 10, 2021
Corie Noelle Bowden
LCSW 80020
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Edward Arthur Castro
AMFT 124333
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of two (2) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: February 15, 2021
Michael Brian Coulter
ASW 101523
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Arnette Kranay Dunn
ASW 60288
DISCIPLINE BY ANOTHER STATE/AGENCY
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of seven (7) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Jessica Caitlin Fritz
ASW 86452
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Revocation
Eective: April 8, 2021
Renita Yvette Gant- Shaer
ASW 86616
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked,
revocation stayed, and placed on probation
for a period of three (3) years with terms
and conditions.
Eective: February 9, 2021
Narda Iris Gonzalez
AMFT 86762
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: April 8, 2021
Stephen Pierre Guevara
ASW 85985
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: April 26, 2021
Heidi Marie Harder
LMFT 94792
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation stayed,
and placed on probation for a period of five
(5) years with terms and conditions.
Eective: April 26, 2021
Robin Lynn Harper
LMFT 39518
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked
Eective: May 13, 2021
Susan M. Hull
LMFT 43603
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License surrendered
Eective: April 8, 2021
Megan Crystal Jesus
LMFT 98691
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation stayed,
and placed on probation for a period of
three (3) years with terms and conditions.
Eective: February 15, 2021
Ronald Lee Johnson
ASW 68989
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: February 15, 2021
Carolyn Anne Kidd
AMFT 84237
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: April 26, 2021
Marianne Larua
LMFT 17922
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License publicly reproved
Eective: April 8, 2021
Jesus Antonio Leyva
ASW 78764
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: April 8, 2021
Lisa Lipton
AMFT 126071
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a period
of three (3) years with terms and conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
13
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
FORMAL DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Joan M. Macmillan
LMFT 17450
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked
Eective: April 8, 2021
Scott Patrick McKinney
AMFT 103208
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: April 26, 2021
Melissa Cheree Marrs
LCSW 29402
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Steven Richard Mason
AMFT 124332
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of four (4) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: February 15, 2021
Megan Nicole Meade
ASW 77864
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Michelle Nichole Molnar
AMFT 116998
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: May 13, 2021
Amanda Christine Moore
AMFT 104326
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: May 13, 2021
Andrew Lang Mottinger
LMFT 103866
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: April 8, 2021
Kasey Nelson
AMFT 116314
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: February 15, 2021
Marianna Olshanskaya
AMFT 86148
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: May 13, 2021
Greg Michael Parulski
LCSW 79766
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked
Eective: March 10, 2021
Taylor L. Pinto
ASW 98840
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: April 8, 2021
Anshu Sharma Prunet
LMFT 104675 & APCC 2742
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License/Registration revoked,
revocation stayed, and placed on
probation for a period of five (5) years
with terms and conditions.
Eective: February 15, 2021
Heather Lynne Rogers
ASW 83959
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Arden Elaine Rose
LCSW 3357
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License surrendered
Eective: May 13, 2021
Beverly Denise Thomas-Marsh
LMFT 91502
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: April 26, 2021
Jason Leonard Thompson
AMFT 85329
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: May 13, 2021
Rosalie E. Toren
LEP 2624
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: April 8, 2021
Tescia Rose Uribe
LCSW 28922
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Phillip Michael Valdez
LMFT 52261
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of five (5) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
Jaclyn Monique Warren
AMFT 104626
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: February 15, 2021
Katherine Paola Zapata
ASW 85871
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked,
revocation stayed, and placed on
probation for a period of five (5) years
with terms and conditions.
Eective: February 15, 2021
Jennie Zuniga
LMFT 125977
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for a
period of three (3) years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: May 13, 2021
14
CALIFORNIA BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
FORMAL DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS JUNE 2021DECEMBER 2021
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
Sara Escalante Arroyo
AMFT 77442
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: July 22, 2021
Stacey Ann Aus
LMFT 53660
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: June 24, 2021
Mark Lane Balen
LMFT 17694
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License surrendered
Eective: September 16, 2021
Kandice Marie Barker
ASW 69605
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: December 8, 2021
Steven Michael Butler
LMFT 46224
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
four years with terms and conditions.
Eective: September 16, 2021
Stephanie Sheryel Casey
LMFT 86061
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
three years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
Sharon Jeet Chahal
AMFT 126633
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for three
years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
Meaghan Danielle Cicairos
LCSW 88138
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked
Eective: July 22, 2021
Jessica Anne Daly
LMFT 117177
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: June 24, 2021
Christine Lynn Derr
LMFT 36168
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation stayed,
and placed on probation for three years
with terms and conditions.
Eective: December 8, 2021
Camille Andrea Dial
AMFT 116655
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: July 15, 2021
Rosario Eguino
LMFT 29006
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: October 21, 2021
Linda Lea Go
LMFT 17831
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License surrendered
Eective: July 22, 2021
Jennifer Aileen Gomez
AMFT 126632
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: September 16, 2021
Janett Susana Gonzalez
AMFT 100429
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: July 22, 2021
Jaime Debra Haasch
AMFT 91989
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
a period of thre years with terms and
conditions.
Eective: October 21, 2021
Catherine Anne Heymsfeld
LCSW 20801
DISCIPLINE BY ANOTHER AGENCY
Action: License surrendered
Eective: June 24, 2021
Walid Javis
ASW 88472
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: September 16, 2021
Latasha Yvette Jones
ASW 71120
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for five
years with terms and conditions.
Eective: September 16, 2021
Yvette Katuala
LMFT 40635
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License surrendered
Eective: October 21, 2021
Jay David Klapperman
AMFT 126623
UNLICENSED/UNREGISTERED
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
three years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
Yevgeniya Libman
LMFT 119940
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License revoked
Eective: October 21, 2021
Belinda Jo Lopes
LMFT 27331
DISCIPLINE BY ANOTHER AGENCY
Action: License revoked
Eective: October 21, 2021
Steven Craig Lund
APCC 9957
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
three years with terms and conditions.
Eective: July 22, 2021
15
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER
FORMAL DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
Ronnie Michelle Lusk
AMFT 11383 & APCC 6488
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registrations surrendered
Eective: July 22, 2021
Amanda Lynch Machi
AMFT 126987
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for five
years with terms and conditions.
Eective: July 15, 2021
Bradley Manning
LEP 2736
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
five years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
James W. Manzo
ASW 64312
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: July 15, 2021
Iris Louise Mendoza
AMFT 101458
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
three years with terms and conditions.
Eective: December 8, 2021
Jennifer Anne Mitchell
LCSW 76240
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
five years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
Linda Francine Moore
LMFT 33054
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: September 16, 2021
Joseph E. O’Toole
LCSW 10600
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License reinstated, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
two years with terms and conditions.
Eective: December 8, 2021
Vanessa Lee Perocier
AMFT 93898
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
four years with terms and conditions.
Eective: July 22, 2021
Rocheall L. Pierre
ASW 82367
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: Registration surrendered
Eective: December 8, 2021
Alejandra Pinto
ASW 84039
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked
Eective: July 22, 2021
Rodrigo Harold Richen
LMFT 105749
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License revoked
Eective: July 22, 2021
Noel Katherine Scalla
AMFT 95219
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for five
years with terms and conditions.
Eective: October 21, 2021
Giselle Elyse Scholz
AKA Giselle Elyse Shuken
LMFT 99198
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: October 21, 2021
Claudia Lorena Sepulveda
LCSW 87684
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
five years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
Kimberly Shannon
LMFT 23791
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: September 16, 2021
Melinda Ann Sherman
ASW 102143
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: Registration revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
three years with terms and conditions.
Eective: June 24, 2021
Samantha Nichol Terriss
LMFT 47395
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
three years with terms and conditions.
Eective: October 21, 2021
Debra Joan White
LMFT 13061
UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Action: License surrendered
Eective: July 22, 2021
John Franklin Workman III
LMFT 14419
CRIMINAL CHARGES/CONVICTIONS
Action: License revoked, revocation
stayed, and placed on probation for
five years with terms and conditions.
Eective: October 21, 2021
CALIFORNIA
BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
1625 North Market Blvd., Suite S-200
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 574-7830
CALIFORNIA
BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
MARCH 2022 NEWSLETTER | WWW.BBS.CA.GOV
PDE_22-049
UPCOMING MEETING DATES
Board Meetings
May 5–6
August 11–12
November 3–4
Policy and Advocacy Committee
April 20
July 29
October 14
Telehealth Committee
March 4
June 3
Licensing Committee
Dates TBD
Please visit the Board's 2022 Board
and Committee Meetings webpage or
sign up for the email subscriber’s list
for updates.
