What does probation entail regarding professional counselors?

Probation for professional counselors involves a period during which their practice is closely monitored to ensure compliance with professional standards and regulations. This close scrutiny allows for the counselor to demonstrate their ability to adhere to ethical guidelines and state laws following a violation or infraction. The purpose of probation is to support the counselor's professional development and safeguard the welfare of clients while enabling the counselor to continue practicing under specific conditions and oversight.

The other options reflect different consequences of professional misconduct or administrative actions, such as informal actions for minor infractions or severe measures like immediate license termination or financial penalties, but they do not accurately describe the nature of probation itself, which is fundamentally about oversight and rehabilitation rather than punishment.