How can I become a Mental Health Professional?

I am a mental health clinician/case manager at a King County Community Mental Health Agency. I would like to become a “Mental Health Professional” (MHP). What do I need to do?

If you have:

• a master’s degree or further advanced degree in counseling or one of the social sciences from an accredited college or university,
• and two years of experience in direct treatment of persons with mental illness or emotional disturbance
• and you were supervised by a mental health professional during your two years of direct service

you can ask your agency about receiving recognition as a Mental Health Professional.

If you have:

• a bachelor’s degree in counseling or one of the social sciences from an accredited college or university,
• and five years of experience in direct treatment of persons with mental illnesses or emotional disturbances

you will need to ask your agency to submit a “Request for Exception” to the King County Regional Support Network (MHCADSD) in order to become a Mental Health Professional. The Request for Exception form is located in the King County Policies and Procedures Manual at your agency (Section VII, Attachment C). Your agency must support your request in writing.

For more information about becoming a Mental Health Professional, ask your agency for assistance.