West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 25 - Social Work Examiners
West Virginia Code of State Rules – Agency 25: Board of Social Work Examiners
Agency 25 of the West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) contains the administrative rules established by the West Virginia Board of Social Work (formerly the Board of Social Work Examiners). These rules govern the licensing, regulation, and ethical practice of social workers in the state, ensuring public protection and professional accountability.
🔹 Functions of the Board of Social Work (Agency 25):
Licensing of all levels of social workers (LBSW, LSW, LGSW, LICSW)
Setting standards for professional education and supervision
Enforcing ethical conduct and investigating complaints
Regulating continuing education and license renewal
📘 Key Rules and Chapters in Agency 25 Include:
| CSR Section | Title / Subject |
|---|---|
| 25-1 | General Rules and Definitions |
| 25-2 | Licensing Requirements and Procedures |
| 25-3 | Supervision Requirements for Advanced Licenses |
| 25-4 | Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice |
| 25-5 | Disciplinary Procedures and Complaint Process |
| 25-6 | Continuing Education Requirements |
✅ Highlights of Key Provisions:
1. Licensing Categories (25-2)
Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW)
Licensed Social Worker (LSW)
Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
Includes details on:
Educational qualifications
Examination requirements (e.g., ASWB exams)
Application procedures and fees
2. Supervision (25-3)
Required clinical supervision for advanced licenses (LGSW and LICSW)
Supervisors must be Board-approved and meet training standards
Documentation and verification of hours
3. Ethics and Conduct (25-4)
Adheres to NASW Code of Ethics principles
Defines unprofessional conduct (e.g., dual relationships, confidentiality breaches)
Sets client protection standards
4. Complaints and Discipline (25-5)
Process for filing and investigating complaints
Grounds for disciplinary action (e.g., fraud, impairment, unethical behavior)
Disciplinary options: probation, suspension, revocation, fines
5. Continuing Education (25-6)
Required CE hours per renewal cycle (typically 40 hours every 2 years)
Must include ethics training
Pre-approval of providers and audit policies
🏛️ Legal Authority:
The Board operates under West Virginia Code §30-30, with detailed rulemaking in Title 25 CSR.
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