The bill aims to expand licensure opportunities for school counselors by amending the requirements for obtaining a mental health counselor license. It modifies the existing law by deleting clause (3) of the first paragraph of section 165 of chapter 112 and replacing it with new language that clarifies the educational and experiential prerequisites for licensure. Specifically, it stipulates that applicants must complete a master's degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution and accumulate two years of supervised clinical experience. Additionally, it emphasizes that graduate coursework credits earned by individuals in specialized instructional support roles, such as school counselors, can count towards the educational requirements for licensure.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a provision that allows specialized instructional support personnel, including school counselors, to qualify for the written or oral examination for licensure as mental health counselors. It also mandates that applicants who have experience as specialized instructional support personnel must complete evidence-based training in suicide prevention or intervention. The bill outlines the supervision requirements, specifying that at least 200 hours of supervised clinical experience is necessary, with a portion of that supervision being conducted by qualified professionals in relevant fields. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance the pathways for school counselors to become licensed mental health counselors, thereby addressing the growing need for mental health support in educational settings.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 112-165