Changes to
WAC 246-809
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT)
- Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC)
- Licensed Advanced Social Worker (LASW)
- Licensed Independent Social Workers (LICSW)
- Licensed social work associate – advanced (LSWAA)
- Licensed social work associate – independent clinical (LSWAIC
- Licensed mental health counselor associate (LMHCA)
- Licensed marriage and family therapy associate (LMFTA)
What is
an associate?
Can
an associate provide independent services?
As an
associate, can I have my own practice?
Does an associate have to keep progress
notes?
How
much does the associate credential cost?
Can an
associate bill insurance companies?
What is an associate?
An associate is a pre-licensure candidate
with a graduate degree in a mental health
field. (RCW 18.225.090) The associate is
gaining the experience necessary to become a
licensed independent clinical social worker,
licensed advanced social worker, licensed
mental health counselor or licensed marriage
and family therapist.
Can an associate provide independent
services?
No. An associate cannot provide independent
mental health counseling, marriage and
family therapy, or social work for a fee,
monetary or otherwise. If an associate is
working under the supervision of an approved
supervisor, it is not considered independent
practice.
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As an associate, can I have my own practice?
Yes. You can have your own practice if you
are under the supervision of an approved
supervisor. The supervisor must be able to
attest to having knowledge of the practice
setting, recordkeeping, financial
management, ethics of clinical practice and
a back up plan for coverage.
Does an associate have to keep progress
notes?
Yes. An associate must keep records and
progress notes. Associates are held to the
same standard a licensed counselor. (WAC
246-809-035)
How long can I keep my associate credential?
Associate licenses are valid for one year
and must be renewed every year on the date
of issuance. You cannot renew your more than
four times. This should allow you enough
time to complete the supervision
requirements for full licensure.
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How much does the associate credential cost?
The application and
renewal fee are located on your professions
fee page:
Can an associate bill insurance companies?
The associate must contact the insurance
company to determine if they would reimburse
for services.
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