Bill > SB1635

This bill amends licensing requirements for several mental health professionals in Hawaii, mandating that marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, psychologists, and clinical social workers complete courses related to domestic violence. Specifically, the bill requires applicants for initial licensure to have completed a minimum of three semester hours of graduate-level courses on domestic violence as part of their educational requirements. Additionally, for license renewals, professionals will now need to complete two credit hours of continuing education specifically focused on domestic violence during each licensing period. The changes apply to various professional licensing categories, including marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, psychologists, and clinical social workers. These modifications aim to ensure that mental health professionals have a foundational understanding of domestic violence issues, which can help them better recognize, understand, and support clients who may be experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. The bill applies to both initial licensure and ongoing professional development, making domestic violence education a mandatory component of professional training and continuing education for these mental health practitioners.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1635&year=2026