Subject of Possible Rule Making: Establish confidential communications for licensed mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers.

     Statutes Authorizing the Agency to Adopt Rules on this Subject: Chapter 18.225 RCW.

     Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The new statute, chapter 18.225 RCW, for licensed mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers requires licensed counselors to establish confidential communications. The confidential communications will identify what and when client information can be released without the client's authorization to ensure protection of their health and safety.

     Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

     Process for Developing New Rule: Collaborative rule making.

     Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Shellie Pierce, Program Manager, Department of Health, Counselor Programs, 1300 S.E. Quince Street, Olympia, 98504, (360) 236-4907, fax (360) 236-4909.

Mary C. Selecky

Secretary

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