Substance use disorder: counselors.
This legislation aims to provide a standardized framework for the skills and education required for substance use disorder counselors, which is expected to improve the quality of services provided to individuals in recovery. The Department of Health Care Services will be responsible for the implementation of these standards, which will be binding across all facilities licensed and certified under this part of the law. There is a clear intention to enhance the professional standards for those providing counseling within the state's treatment programs, aligning local practices with national certification expectations.
Assembly Bill 2473, authored by Nazarian, amends Section 11833 of the Health and Safety Code to enhance the qualifications and competencies of substance use disorder counselors in California. The bill mandates that the State Department of Health Care Services establish core competency requirements for registered and certified counselors. These requirements will cover vital elements such as the knowledge of mental health disorders as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, case management, and the utilization of electronic health records systems, among other competencies necessary for effective counseling in recovery and treatment programs.
The reception of AB 2473 appears to be generally positive, particularly among mental health professionals and advocacy groups focused on improving treatment outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders. By emphasizing the need for specific core competencies, supporters argue that the bill will enhance the professionalism and reliability of counseling services. However, there could be concerns regarding the implementation timeline and whether existing counselors will be adequately supported in meeting these new standards, as compliance is not mandated until July 1, 2025.
Opponents may raise concerns about the potential burden of additional requirements placed on counselors, particularly those who are already practicing and may not have the time or resources to meet the new criteria promptly. Additionally, the requirement that counselors possess specific core competencies could limit entry into the profession, possibly leading to a shortage of available counselors in a field that is already facing a high demand for qualified professionals.