This guest blog is authored by Jeff Shumway, Director, Office of Professional Licensure Review for the State of Utah. 

Utah is at the forefront of efforts to improve its residents’ access to behavioral health (BH) services. In February 2024, the state passed Senate Bill (SB) 26, a bill to remove barriers to licensure and grow the behavioral health workforce. The bill seeks to improve access to behavioral health services in several ways, including creating new certifications for entry-level workers and allowing those with related 4-year degrees a pathway to become licensed as a BH Coach. 

SB26 also creates an alternate pathway for mental health therapists (social workers, clinical mental health counselors, and marriage and family therapists) to become fully licensed with additional clinical supervision and recommendations in lieu of passing a national exam. 

One of the most significant changes in SB26 is the limited prescribing authority granted to psychologists. Psychologists can prescribe a set of low-risk antidepressants (with added education and training and in collaboration with a doctor). The physician licensing board would advise regulators on all oversight, including any expansion of allowable drugs in the future. 

Another significant change in SB26 is the creation of a new multi-professional board advising regulators on most behavioral health occupations. This board will replace the current occupation-specific boards and provide more consistent and comprehensive oversight. The new board will include researchers, employers, payors, educators, consumers, and licensed practitioners. 

Lastly, SB26 seeks to improve safety in targeted areas. For example, the bill requires more direct client care hours and direct observation by other licensees to improve safety. It also increases the quality of supervision by requiring training and certification for supervisors. Additionally, the bill requires criminal background checks for MA-level clinicians/therapists and disclosures to their clients about their license, ethics, and contact information of relevant regulators. 

Overall, SB26 represents a significant step forward for behavioral health in Utah. By removing barriers to licensure and improving safety, access, and oversight, the state is better positioned to serve its residents’ behavioral health needs. 

For detailed insights on Utah’s behavioral health regulatory changes, read the full report. To hear more about the work in Utah and health workforce leaders in Indiana and Utah, check out our recent learning network session.