Bill > SB6232

This bill establishes the Washington state board of licensed mental health counselors to provide specialized governance for the mental health counseling profession, recognizing its distinct educational requirements, practice standards, and ethical considerations. The new board will consist of nine members, seven of whom are licensed mental health counselors and two are public members, appointed by the governor for three-year terms. The board will be responsible for setting educational and experience requirements for licensure, administering or approving examinations, establishing rules for continuing competency, and adopting a code of ethics. The bill also defines "mental health counseling" and outlines the duties of the secretary of health in issuing licenses and setting fees. It clarifies that the uniform disciplinary act will govern unlicensed practice and licensee discipline, with the board acting as the disciplining authority. The bill also makes numerous amendments to existing Revised Code of Washington (RCW) sections to reflect the creation of this new board and the transfer of regulatory authority for mental health counselors, including changes to definitions, licensing requirements, and provisions related to professional corporations and limited liability partnerships. The new chapter is effective July 1, 2026, with some sections taking effect later contingent on the board assuming full regulatory authority.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6232&Year=2025&Initiative=false