Prelicensed Corner (3000 Club) by Jaimi Brooks, MFT Intern

From "Intern" to "Associate"

Under a bill signed into law last September counselors (PCCs) and marriage and family therapists (MFTs) in California who have completed their graduate degrees but are not yet licensed will experience a title change from "Intern" to "Associate ." This is great news as lends respect and credibility for those of us working towards licensure; however, it does not go in to effect until on January 1, 2018.

The initiative to change our pre-licensed title came about, in part, from the impression of consumers and employers that the term "intern" means someone who is still in school, rather than a professional with a graduate degree." It is in our best interest to take ownership of a title that accurately reflects our education and standing in the field, rather than diminish it.

The title change goes into effect on January 1, 2018. So let us clinicians, soon to be formerly known as "interns," celebrate the progress as we await this much appreciated title change and prepare to update our websites and marketing materials to reflect new identity as Associates .

Law & Ethics Exam Reminder

Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) Interns in California need to take the state MFT Law & Ethics Exam prior to his or her first year intern registration renewal. This is hugely important and if you are not working closely with other interns it can be easy to miss the memo.

Your intern number will not be renewed if you have not taken the exam. You don't need to pass the exam, but you need to at least take it for the BBS to renew your registration. In order to take the Law & Ethics Exam you have to submit your application for permission to it to the BBS, by mail, which takes between 4-6 weeks to receive approval. Then you must take the exam and ensure the BBS receives proof you completed the exam in order for your renewal to process.

As you see, this is all a long, time-consuming process. It is best to begin the process at least 3 months in advance of your renewal date to prevent a lapse in your registration. Should it lapse, you cannot see clients nor accrue hours until your renewal is complete and approved. And that would be a bummer! So get that Law & Ethics Exam on your calendars!

Jaimi Brooks, M.A., MFTI, works in private practice under the supervision of Jonathan Flier, LMFT. Taking a holistic, integrative approach to her work, Jaimi specializes in working with engaged couples as they prepare for marriage, clients struggling with shame and secrets, and those with fertility challenges. Learn more about Jaimi's work on her website, www.jaimibrooks.com, or reach her by email at jaimibrooks@gmail.com. You may also reach her by phone at 310.433.0892.