House Bill 361 amends various sections of Florida Statutes concerning mental health professionals, specifically redefining the status of individuals in training by changing the terminology from "intern" to "associate." This reclassification applies to clinical social work, marriage and family therapy, and mental health counseling, introducing new terms such as "registered associate clinical social worker intern," "registered associate marriage and family therapist intern," and "registered associate mental health counselor intern." The bill also establishes requirements for associate registration, mandating that individuals must register as associates before starting their post-master's experience or practicum.

A significant change in the bill is the removal of the requirement for a licensed mental health professional to be present on-site when registered associates provide clinical services in a private practice, which was previously necessary. This adjustment aims to facilitate practical experience for registered associates while ensuring they remain under supervision. Additionally, the bill introduces a new designation for students providing regulated services as "student associate interns" and requires registered associates to display their registration prominently at their practice locations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes conforming amendments to ensure clarity and compliance with the updated terminology and requirements.

Statutes affected:
H 361 Filed: 491.014, 491.0149