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, the bill outlines the necessary supervised clinical experience, which must be verified by qualified supervisors and include a minimum of 300 direct client contact hours, with specific conditions regarding the setting and supervision ratios.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for the use of technology in therapy sessions, allowing for direct interaction through secure, real-time communication methods. It also includes 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 while accommodating modern practices in therapy.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 333.16909