House Bill 1633, a bill to enact new licensing standards for NH Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors, recently passed the House of Representatives. In addition to setting new and expanded rules and authorities to the Board of Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselors, this bill establishes new requirements for and levels of LADC status.
The proposed Masters LADC (MLADC) will require a 60 credit Masters degree in substance abuse counseling and 4000 hours of post graduate, supervised experience. The LADC credential will require an Associates degree and 6,000 hours supervised experience or a Bachelors degree and 4,000 hours experience. The law also establishes criteria for certification as a Recovery Support Worker (CRSW) and Clinical Supervisor.
The bill is now in the Senate Committee for review, amendment, and subsequent vote. There had been some discussion prior to this bill leaving the House as to certain language regarding MLDC’s capacity to treat co-occurring disorders. Whereas treating mental health disorders typically falls under the purview of the Board of Mental Health Practice the debate centered around expertise and oversight. That language was ultimately removed from the House bill.
NHMHCA will keep members posted as this legislation progresses.
