Can licensed counselors in Maryland practice outside of their scope of education and training?

Licensed counselors in Maryland must practice within their defined scope of practice, which is determined by their education, training, and licensure. This requirement ensures that counselors have the appropriate knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective services to clients. Practicing outside of this defined scope can lead to inadequate care, ethical violations, and potential harm to clients, as counselors may not possess the required competencies in areas beyond their training.

The regulation emphasizes the importance of adhering to ethical guidelines and standards set forth by licensing bodies to protect clients and maintain professional integrity. This means that counselors are responsible for understanding the boundaries of their qualifications and must refrain from engaging in activities or interventions for which they have not been trained or adequately educated, promoting professional responsibility and accountability.

This regulation does not imply that counselors cannot seek collaboration or guidance in complex situations; however, they must remain within the bounds of their training when providing services. The necessity for referrals in certain circumstances, while important, is not the same as practicing outside one's defined parameters. Therefore, the correct approach is to maintain practice only within one's established qualifications, upholding the quality and safety of counseling services in Maryland.