This bill aims to enhance child and adolescent mental health services by updating the definition of "licensed mental health professional" across several chapters of the General Laws. Specifically, it amends Sections 22 of Chapter 32A, 47B of Chapter 175, 8A of Chapter 176A, 4A of Chapter 176B, and 4M of Chapter 176G. In each of these sections, the bill removes the existing second paragraph of subsection (i) and replaces it with a new definition that includes licensed physicians specializing in psychiatry, licensed psychologists, licensed independent clinical social workers, licensed mental health counselors, licensed nurse mental health clinical specialists, and licensed educational psychologists, all within their lawful scope of practice.

By standardizing the definition of licensed mental health professionals across various laws, the bill seeks to ensure consistency in the provision of mental health services for children and adolescents. This legislative change is intended to improve access to qualified mental health care providers, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of mental health services for young individuals in the state.

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