Pettyjohn bill expands Delaware’s mental health workforce

July 21, 2026 - 19:50

Governor Matt Meyer signed Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 208 into law on June 24, marking a bipartisan effort to address the state's shortage of mental health professionals. The legislation, sponsored by Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn, seeks to expand the pipeline of qualified workers entering the field.

The new law focuses on removing barriers for aspiring counselors and therapists. It creates a pathway for licensed professional counselors of mental health to gain independent practice status more efficiently. Specifically, the bill reduces the required hours of post-master's supervised clinical experience from 3,200 to 2,000 for those who have completed an accredited program. Supporters argue this change will speed up the process for new graduates to start serving patients without compromising care quality.

the measure establishes a provisional license for associate-level counselors. This allows them to begin working in community mental health settings while they complete their remaining supervision hours. Lawmakers from both parties backed the bill, citing a critical need for more providers in schools, hospitals, and rural clinics. Pettyjohn noted that the legislation was crafted with input from practicing clinicians and educators to ensure it meets real-world demands. The law takes effect immediately, with state agencies expected to update their licensing rules within the next 90 days.