Licensing Investigations: Suggestions from Social Workers Who Received Sanctions

Abstract When clients have concerns about licensed social workers, they may file complaints with their state licensing boards. Although prior research has explored the types of complaints made against social workers, there has been little research on the experiences of social workers who are being investigated. This phenomenological study is based on in-depth interviews designed to gain a better understanding of the lived experiences of 13 licensed social workers who participated in licensing investigations and received sanctions by a state licensing board for violating state laws, rules, or ethical standards. The researchers used an interpretive approach to analyze the interviews and identify common themes surrounding participant suggestions for improvement for licensing boards when investigating complaints and issuing sanctions. Research participants suggested that being investigated for licensing violations can cause significant levels of anxiety, stress, and embarrassment. Although some participants felt that the investigation process was fair, others expressed deep concerns about how they were treated. The participants’ suggestions for improving the investigation process centered around five primary themes: ensuring the process is fair, treating licensees with kindness and respect, using a collaborative approach, using a corrective approach, and hiring professional social workers as investigators.