To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish qualifications for the appointment of a person as a marriage and family therapist, qualified to provide clinical supervision, in the Veterans Health Administration.

# HR 658 Summary **What the Bill Does** HR 658 sets specific qualifications for marriage and family therapists working in the Veterans Health Administration (the VA's healthcare system) who supervise other therapists. Currently, there are no federal standards for who can hold this supervisory role. The bill would require these supervisors to have a master's degree, be licensed or certified in their state, and either be authorized by their state to provide clinical supervision or be approved as a supervisor by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. **Who It Affects** This bill primarily affects veterans receiving mental health care through the VA, as well as marriage and family therapists employed by the VA.

By establishing clear qualifications, the bill aims to ensure that supervisors in VA mental health programs meet professional standards and can effectively oversee and train other therapists. **Current Status** HR 658 has passed the House of Representatives and is awaiting action in the Senate. The bill has bipartisan support conceptually, as it focuses on improving professional standards rather than partisan issues.