As NASW-FL continues to advocate for social workers across Florida, we are sharing several important updates following the recent meeting of the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, and Mental Health Counseling (491 Board).
NASW-FL Public Comments Regarding Licensing Concerns
Executive Director Christina Cazanave-McCarthy and Chapter President Michael Alicea presented public comments highlighting many of the concerns outlined in our previous email and survey results. They offered recommendations focused on collaboration, improved communication, and increased education opportunities for licensees and applicants. You can review their full public comments here.
They are pleased to share that the Board received the comments well. The Board Chair and Board staff expressed their appreciation for NASW-FL's efforts and shared their commitment to continued collaboration to better support Florida's behavioral health workforce.
We are already seeing this partnership move forward. NASW-FL and Board staff are moving forward with establishing quarterly meetings to discuss common licensing questions, recurring concerns, process updates, and opportunities to provide additional education. We are also working toward member-only workshops with Board staff in the fall and spring to help provide clearer guidance and resources throughout the licensing process.
Important Update: Qualified Supervision Rule
During the meeting, the Board voted unanimously to amend the definition of "on premises" to allow a licensed mental health professional to be present via telehealth or other synchronous electronic means when appropriate protocols and safety plans are in place.
This rule change recognizes the evolving nature of behavioral health practice and provides additional flexibility while maintaining appropriate supervision standards and public protection. To read the text of the amendment that was proposed and voted on, click here.
Social Work Licensure Compact Update
The Social Work Licensure Compact continues to advance nationally, with significant progress toward implementation. For members interested in the latest national updates regarding the Compact Commission, rule development, and implementation timeline, you can review the full update here.
While Florida has not yet passed the Compact, NASW-FL wants to be clear: our opportunity is not over. There is still time for Florida to join before Compact privileges become available.
This summer and fall, NASW-FL will continue to meet with legislators, attend delegation meetings, and strengthen our grassroots advocacy efforts across the state. We will also continue educating policymakers on why joining the Compact is critical for workforce mobility, improving access to services, and ensuring Florida does not fall behind as other states move forward.
NASW-FL remains committed to getting this across the finish line.