Connecticut Senate Bill SB00552

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Allowing Licensed Clinical Social Workers To Perform Certain Roles Performed By Psychiatrists And Psychologists And Establishing A Review Process For Mental Health Care Roles In Schools, Police Departments And Department Of Correction Facilities.

Impact

If passed, SB00552 would amend state laws to officially authorize licensed clinical social workers to conduct behavioral health assessments and potentially take on more expansive roles in mental health care. This expansion is intended to alleviate the burdens on existing mental health professionals, thereby improving service delivery to individuals who frequently interact with institutional frameworks. Additionally, the bill proposes a review process to assess which mental health care roles within these institutions should mandate specific certification, which could further regulate and enhance the quality of care provided.

Summary

SB00552 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the capacity of mental health care by enabling licensed clinical social workers to perform specific roles traditionally held by psychiatrists and psychologists. This bill recognizes the acute shortage of mental health professionals and seeks to streamline the processes involved in providing mental health care within various institutions. By leveraging the skills of clinical social workers, the bill aims to address significant gaps in mental health services, particularly in schools, police departments, and correctional facilities.

Contention

As the discussion surrounding SB00552 develops, various stakeholders, including mental health professionals and advocacy groups, may voice differing opinions on the bill's implications. Proponents argue that allowing social workers to assume these roles is a pragmatic response to the pressing need for accessible mental health care. In contrast, critics may express concerns about the adequacy of training and expertise of social workers in comparison to psychiatrists and psychologists, potentially leading to discussions about the standards of care and the effectiveness of such a transition within institutional settings.