According to Health and Safety Code 11831.7, what authority does DHCS have regarding counselors?

The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) holds specific authority under Health and Safety Code 11831.7 that includes the power to investigate counselor misconduct. This authority is crucial for maintaining the standards of practice within the field of alcoholism and drug counseling. By investigating complaints against counselors, the DHCS ensures that practitioners adhere to ethical and professional guidelines, thereby protecting clients and ensuring the integrity of the counseling profession.

This function supports the overall goal of public safety and the effectiveness of treatment services by addressing any potential issues related to a counselor's conduct. The ability to investigate misconduct directly impacts the quality and reliability of services offered to individuals seeking help for substance use disorders.

In contrast, while certification of counselors, setting treatment fees, and approving training programs are also important aspects of the counseling framework, those responsibilities do not fall under the specific authority granted by Health and Safety Code 11831.7. Instead, they may be managed by different regulatory bodies or agencies within California.