Relating to the licensing and practice of psychological associates.
Impact
The changes introduced by SB1339 are significant as they aim to clarify and enhance the role of psychological associates within the Texas mental health care framework. The bill modifies existing legal structures concerning who can practice as a psychological associate, potentially increasing access to psychological services. By creating a separate provider type for psychological associates in the medical assistance program, it intends to streamline reimbursement processes for these professionals, ensuring that they can provide care effectively without bureaucratic hurdles.
Summary
Senate Bill 1339 aims to modify the licensing and practice requirements for psychological associates in Texas. The bill establishes that a person may not be licensed unless they hold a master's degree in psychology, complete a specified amount of graduate course work, and pass both a nationally recognized qualifying examination and a jurisprudence examination. Additionally, licensed psychological associates who have completed a specific number of supervised experience hours will no longer be required to work under the supervision of a psychologist, enhancing their ability to practice independently.
Contention
While the bill generally seeks to empower psychological associates, it may face scrutiny regarding the oversight of these professionals. Critics may argue that allowing psychological associates to practice independently after completing the specified experience could raise concerns about the consistency and quality of psychological services. Furthermore, there could be debates around the adequacy of the educational and practical experiences required for licensure given the sensitive nature of mental health services. Ensuring that psychological associates maintain high standards of practice will likely be a point of contention moving forward.
Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.
Relating to the licensing of marriage and family therapists, marriage and family therapist associates, professional counselors, professional counselor associates, and social workers, including certain out-of-state applicants.
Relating to the licensing in this state of a person licensed in another jurisdiction to practice psychology, marriage and family therapy, or professional counseling.