SECTION 140.402. Scope of Practice

(a) An LCDC is authorized to provide chemical dependency counseling services involving the application of the principles, methods, and procedures of the chemical dependency profession as defined by the profession's ethical standards and the KSAs as defined in §140.400 of this title (relating to Definitions). The license does not qualify an individual to provide services outside this scope of practice.

(b) The scope of practice for an LCDC includes services that address substance abuse/dependence and/or its impact on the service recipient subject to the following:

(1) the LCDC is prohibited from using techniques that exceed his or her professional competence;

(2) the service recipient may only be the user, family member or any other individual involved in a significant relationship with a user;

(3) the focus of an LCDC's services shall be on assisting individuals or groups to develop an understanding of chemical dependency problems, define goals, and plan action reflecting the individual's or group's interest, abilities, and needs, as affected by claimed or indicated chemical dependency problems; and

(4) LCDCs are not qualified to treat individuals with a mental health disorder or provide family counseling to individuals whose presenting problems do not include chemical dependency.

Source Note: The provisions of this §140.402 adopted to be effective September 9, 2008, 33 TexReg 7520; amended to be effective August 9, 2012, 37 TexReg 5788