Rhode IslandH70642026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT RELATING TO BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS -- MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELORS AND MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPISTS .

Sponsored By: Mary Ann Shallcross Smith (Democratic)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.

More hours for marriage and family therapist license

The law sets new hour rules to become a licensed marriage and family therapist. You must have a master’s degree and at least two years of post‑graduate experience. You must document 1,500 hours of direct client contact. At least 1,400 hours must be after your degree. Up to 100 hours can be during graduate study. At least 300 of the 1,500 hours must be with couples, families, or groups. The law takes effect upon passage.

300-hour practicum for associate marriage and family therapists

The law sets a practicum rule for associate marriage and family therapists. Your internship or practicum must be part of your master’s or doctoral program. It must include at least 300 hours of direct client contact under an approved supervisor. Client contact can be with individuals, couples, families, groups, or organizations. The law takes effect upon passage.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Mary Ann Shallcross Smith
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Samuel A. Azzinaro
Democratic • House
David A. Bennett
Democratic • House
Lauren H. Carson
Democratic • House
Julie A. Casimiro
Democratic • House
Susan R. Donovan
Democratic • House
Deborah A. Fellela
Democratic • House
Kathleen A. Fogarty
Democratic • House
Joseph M. McNamara
Democratic • House
Ramon A. Perez
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 64 • No: 0

House vote • 3/31/2026

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELORS PASSAGE