The proposed legislation establishes the Washington State Board of Licensed Mental Health Counselors, which will consist of nine members, including seven licensed mental health counselors and two public members appointed by the governor. The board's responsibilities include setting education and experience requirements for licensure, administering examinations, adopting a code of ethics, and implementing a continuing competency program. The bill emphasizes the need for an independent board to enhance public safety and professional accountability, aligning the mental health counseling profession with other healthcare professions in Washington. It also introduces provisions for associate licenses for pre-licensure candidates and mandates licensed counselors to provide clients with disclosure information at the start of treatment, while ensuring confidentiality of client information.

Additionally, the bill amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to clarify definitions and procedures related to mental health counselors and social workers. Notably, it removes references to "licensed mental health counselors" throughout the text, indicating a shift in focus towards social work and marriage and family therapy. The bill introduces a probationary license for applicants, outlines requirements for obtaining an associate license, and establishes rules for the renewal of these licenses. It also includes provisions for a psilocybin therapy services pilot program and mandates training in suicide assessment for licensed professionals. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework for mental health services, improve access to care, and ensure that practitioners meet necessary qualifications.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 18.130.250, 18.225.020, 18.225.030, 18.225.060, 18.225.070, 18.225.090, 18.225.130, 18.225.140, 18.225.145, 18.225.170, 5.60.060, 13.40.230, 18.205.090, 18.205.105, 19.410.010, 25.05.510, 43.70.110, 43.70.442, 43.70.903, 48.43.087, 49.44.220, 70.02.180, 74.09.748