Bill would let out-of-state mental health counselors practice in NJ

By: Gene Myers
NorthJersey.com
USA Today Network - New Jersey

..... A bill aimed at easing the shortage of mental heath professionals in New Jersey passed the state Assembly unanimously on Thursday. [12/07/2023] response by Assemblywoman Michele Matsikoudis, A5311 would allow license counselors from other states to practice in New Jersey via telehealth without needing multiple licenses.
..... New Jersey is one of several states including Wisconsin, South Carolina and Rhode Island working to join the compact. A Senate companionship bill, S3061, is awaiting a committee hearing.
..... Among the 42% of adults in New Jersey who reported symptom of anxiety or depression, nearly half were unable to get counseling, Matsikousis said, citing the National Alliance on Mental Illness. also, 61% of people ages 12 to 17 with depression didn't receive care within the last year, [2022] the Alliance reported.
..... The bill builds on the success of a temporary program that allowed out-of-state counselors to practice in New Jersey during the pandemic, providing care to over 30,000 patients' according to Matsikoudis' statement.
.....The assemblywoman said joining the interstate counseling compact would:
* Decrease the regulatory burden on mental health professionals.
* Allow for continuity of care for patients who move out of state.* Open up access to new patients.
..... "An interstate counseling compact removes the barriers for professionals and patients to put New Jersey on a path to better mental health," Matsikoudis said.

Dial 988 to get immediate help

..... If you or your child is experiencing a mental health crisis,, reach a counselor through the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988.
..... that will route you to counselors with the NJ Hope Line. Other resources can be found with New Jersey Mental Health cares at 866-202-HELP.

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