(a)
The Board of Psychology and the Board of Behavioral Sciences shall consider adoption of continuing education requirements including training in the area of recognizing chemical dependency and early intervention for all persons applying for renewal of a license as a psychologist, clinical social worker, marriage and family therapist, or professional clinical counselor.
(b)
Prior to the adoption of any regulations imposing continuing education relating to alcohol and other chemical dependency, the boards are urged to consider coursework to include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following topics:
(1)
Historical
and contemporary perspectives on alcohol and other drug abuse.
(2)
Extent of the alcohol and drug abuse epidemic and its effects on the individual, family, and community.
(3)
Recognizing the symptoms of alcoholism and drug addiction.
(4)
Making appropriate interpretations, interventions, and referrals.
(5)
Recognizing and intervening with affected family members.
(6)
Learning about current programs of recovery, such as 12 step programs, and how therapists can effectively utilize these programs.