Interstate Occupational Licensure Arrangements to Expand Access to Behavioral Health Services

Abstract

This policy report describes state-based provisions to expand behavioral health services through interstate licensure arrangements for psychologists, social workers, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), marriage and family therapists (MFTs), and school psychologists, including licensure compact agreements and licensure portability models. Although the interstate licensure arrangements for each of these occupations are in the early stages of development and/or utilization, we discuss their potential impact on the provision of behavioral health, including telehealth services, with a focus on how expanded services may enhance access to behavioral health care for rural residents.

Authors:

Oster NV, Andrilla CHA, Patterson DG, Garberson LA, Graves JM

Journal/Publisher:

WWAMI Rural Health Research Center, University of Washington

Edition:

Jul 2025.

Documents:

Policy Report

Citation:

Oster NV, Andrilla CHA, Patterson DG, Garberson LA, Graves JM. Interstate Occupational Licensure Arrangements to Expand Access to Behavioral Health Services. Policy Report. WWAMI Rural Health Research Center, University of Washington; July 2025.