Bill > S792

This bill aims to increase consumer access to licensed rehabilitation counselors by amending several sections of Massachusetts General Laws to explicitly include licensed rehabilitation counselors in the definition of "licensed mental health professional" across multiple chapters related to state insurance and health services. Specifically, the bill modifies sections in chapters 32A, 175, 176A, 176B, and 176G to add licensed rehabilitation counselors to the list of recognized mental health professionals, which currently includes physicians specializing in psychiatry, psychologists, clinical social workers, mental health counselors, nurse mental health clinical specialists, and marriage and family therapists. By expanding the definition, the bill ensures that licensed rehabilitation counselors can be recognized as qualified mental health professionals within their lawful scope of practice, potentially increasing patient options for mental health treatment and insurance coverage. This change reflects a broader recognition of the professional capabilities of rehabilitation counselors and their important role in providing mental health services.

Business and Industry, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S792