The bill amends the Public Health Code to update the licensing requirements for marriage and family therapists in Michigan. It specifies that individuals seeking a license must provide satisfactory evidence of meeting educational qualifications, which include obtaining a master's or higher degree from an accredited program in marriage and family therapy or completing specific graduate-level courses. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate completion of supervised clinical experience, which must now include direct client contact hours in settings where families or couples are present, either physically or through secure technology.

Furthermore, the bill introduces changes to the supervision requirements for clinical experience, stipulating a minimum ratio of supervision to direct client contact hours and allowing for the use of technology in supervision. It also provides a waiver for certain requirements if an applicant holds a doctoral degree from an accredited program in marriage and family therapy. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the standards for licensure and ensure that therapists are adequately trained to provide effective services.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 333.16909