Senate Bill 789 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to mental health, specifically focusing on the licensure and supervision of marriage and family therapists. The bill introduces new provisions that allow student interns and trainees in marriage and family therapy to perform activities under supervision while pursuing their studies. It also establishes specific titles for these individuals, such as "marital therapy intern" and "pre-licensed marriage and family therapist." Additionally, the definition of "approved supervisor" is updated to include licensed mental health professionals who are either American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy-approved supervisors or in training under such supervision.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the process for obtaining an associate license for both licensed professional counselors and marital and family therapist applicants. It specifies the requirements for application, including the need for a completed application, evidence of supervision agreements, and payment of fees. The associate license is valid for up to four years and can be extended at the board's discretion. Importantly, the bill clarifies that holders of an associate license must not misrepresent their status as fully licensed therapists, instead using the designation "associate licensed marriage and family therapist" or "AMFT."

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 63-22-113(a), 63-22-113, 63-22-115(a)(2), 63-22-115, 63-22-121