The bill amends the practice and regulation of counseling and marriage and family therapy in Arkansas by removing certain requirements related to full-time employment and additional training for licensed professionals. Specifically, it eliminates the requirement for applicants to have full-time experience in professional counseling, allowing for a broader range of experience to be considered acceptable. Additionally, the bill repeals sections that mandated licensed counselors to declare special competencies and demonstrate professional competence in specialty areas through examinations.

By removing these requirements, the bill aims to streamline the licensing process for counselors and therapists, potentially increasing accessibility to these professions. The changes may encourage more individuals to enter the field by reducing barriers related to employment status and specialized training, thereby addressing the growing demand for mental health services in the state.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB42 Original - 1-9-2023 11:23 AM: 17-27-301(6), 17-27-301(7), 17-27-307(c)
Old version SB42 V2 - 1-18-2023 09:41 AM: 17-27-301(6), 17-27-301(7), 17-27-307(c)
SB 42: 17-27-301(6), 17-27-301(7), 17-27-307(c)
Act 78: 17-27-301(6), 17-27-301(7), 17-27-307(c)