For therapists, counselors, and clinical social workers, a DUI is a licensing matter before the California Board of Behavioral Sciences as well as a criminal case. The two tracks are separate, and the criminal outcome drives the licensing one.
The reporting duty
The Board of Behavioral Sciences requires licensees and registrants, including LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and associates, to disclose convictions, and renewal and application forms ask about them. Failing to disclose where required is treated as a serious integrity issue, often more serious than the DUI.
How the board views a DUI
A single DUI rarely costs a license by itself. The board focuses on whether the conduct is substantially related to the work, on patterns of substance abuse that could affect client care, and on honesty in disclosure. A documented, proactive response carries weight.
Why the criminal outcome matters
The board reviews how the case was resolved, so a reduction, a dismissal, or a record that can be set aside all help. Coordinating the criminal defense with any board response is the right approach.
Where to start
If you hold this license, the criminal case and the licensing question should be handled together from the start. Use the free written case analysis below or call me directly. See also the guide for nurses and alcohol treatment in a DUI case.