Adopted and Filed

Behavioral health professionals licensing; licensure of psychologists; licensure of marital and family therapists, mental health counselors, behavior analysts, and assistant behavior analysts; licensure of social workers, adopt ch 880; rescind chs 885, 891, 895

Untitled document

ARC 9401C

INSPECTIONS AND APPEALS DEPARTMENT[481]

Adopted and Filed

Rulemaking related to licensing

The Board of Behavior Health Professionals hereby adopts a new Chapter 880, “Behavioral Health Professionals Licensing,” and rescinds Chapter 885, “Licensure of Psychologists,” Chapter 891, “Licensure of Marital and Family Therapists, Mental Health Counselors, Behavior Analysts, and Assistant Behavior Analysts,” and Chapter 895, “Licensure of Social Workers,” Iowa Administrative Code.

Legal Authority for Rulemaking

This rulemaking is adopted under the authority provided in Iowa Code chapters 17A, 147, 154B, 154C, 154D and 272C.

State or Federal Law Implemented

This rulemaking implements, in whole or in part, Iowa Code chapters 17A, 147, 154B, 154C, 154D and 272C and 2024 Iowa Acts, Senate File 2385.

Purpose and Summary

Chapter 880 sets minimum standards for entry into the professions of mental health counselors, marital and family therapists, behavior analysts, assistant behavior analysts, social workers, and psychologists. Iowa residents, licensees, and employers benefit from the chapter because it articulates the processes by which individuals apply for licensure as a behavioral health professional in the state of Iowa, as directed in statute. This includes the processes for initial licensure, renewal, and reinstatement. These requirements ensure public safety by ensuring that any individual entering these professions has minimum competency. Requirements include the application process, minimum educational qualifications, and examination requirements. This rulemaking seeks to implement changes mandated by 2024 Iowa Acts, House File 2515, which amended supervision requirements to remove direct observation hours and modifies license by endorsement rules for mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists.

Public Comment and Changes to Rulemaking

Notice of Intended Action for this rulemaking was published in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin on February 19, 2025, as ARC 8878C. A public hearing was held on the following date(s):

●March 11, 2025

No one attended the public hearing. No public comments were received.

The Board felt there is confusion by some applicants over the examination requirements for temporary and full mental health counseling licensure. Changes from the Notice have been made in rule 481—880.3(154B,154C,154D) to reword the requirements to provide additional clarity.

Adoption of Rulemaking

This rulemaking was adopted by the Board on May 27, 2025.

Fiscal Impact

This rulemaking has no fiscal impact to the State of Iowa.

Jobs Impact

After analysis and review of this rulemaking, no impact on jobs has been found.

Waivers

Any person who believes that the application of the discretionary provisions of this rulemaking would result in hardship or injustice to that person may petition the Board for a waiver of the discretionary provisions, if any, pursuant to 481—Chapter 6.

Review by Administrative Rules Review Committee

The Administrative Rules Review Committee, a bipartisan legislative committee which oversees rulemaking by executive branch agencies, may, on its own motion or on written request by any individual or group, review this rulemaking at its regular monthly meeting or at a special meeting. The Committee’s meetings are open to the public, and interested persons may be heard as provided in Iowa Code section 17A.8(6).

Effective Date

This rulemaking will become effective on August 13, 2025.

The following rulemaking action is adopted:

ITEM 1.Adopt the following new481—Chapter 880:

BOARD OF BEHAVORIAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

CHAPTER 880

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS LICENSING

481—880.1(148,154B,154C,154D) Definitions.

“Active license” means a license that is current and has not expired.

“AMFTRB” means the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards.

“ASPPB” means the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards.

“ASWB” means the Association of Social Work Boards.

“BACB” means the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.

“Board” means the board of behavioral health professionals.

“CCE” means the Center for Credentialing and Education, Inc.

“Certified health service provider in psychology” means a person who works in a clinical setting, who is licensed to practice psychology and who has a doctoral degree in psychology. A person certified as a health service provider in psychology shall be deemed qualified to diagnose or evaluate mental illness and nervous disorders.

“Course” means three graduate semester credit hours.

“Grace period” means the 30-day period following expiration of a license when the license is still considered to be active.

“Inactive license” means a license that has expired because it was not renewed by the end of the grace period.

“NBCC” means the National Board for Certified Counselors.

“Provisional license” means a license issued to a person who is completing a predoctoral internship or postdoctoral residency under supervision in order to satisfy the requirements for licensure.

“Reactivate” or “reactivation” means the process as outlined in rules 481—880.11(272C) and 481—880.14(17A,147,272C) by which an inactive license is restored to active status.

“Reinstatement” means the process as outlined in rule 481—506.31(272C) by which a licensee who has had a license suspended or revoked or who has voluntarily surrendered a license may apply to have the license reinstated, with or without conditions. Once the license is reinstated, the licensee may apply for active status.

“Temporary license” means a license to practice marital and family therapy or mental health counseling under direct supervision of a qualified supervisor as determined by the board by rule to fulfill the postgraduate supervised clinical experience requirement in accordance with this chapter.

481—880.2(154B,154C,154D) License requirements.

880.2(1) Requirements for permanent and temporary licensure as a mental health counselor or marriage and family therapist. The following criteria shall apply to licensure:

a.The applicant shall submit a completed online application for licensure and pay the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.3(147,154D).

b.The applicant for a mental health counseling license shall submit two completed fingerprint cards and a signed waiver form to facilitate a national criminal history background check by the Iowa division of criminal investigation (DCI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The cost of the criminal history background check by the DCI and the FBI shall be assessed to the applicant.

c.No application will be considered by the board until official copies of academic transcripts sent directly from the school to the board have been received by the board or an equivalency evaluation completed by the CCE has been received by the board. The applicant shall present proof of meeting the educational requirements. Documentation of such proof shall be on file in the board office with the application and include one of the following:

(1)For licensure as a marital and family therapist, an official transcript verifying completion of a marital and family therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education (COAMFTE) as defined in paragraph 880.4(1)“a” or an equivalency evaluation of the applicant’s educational credentials completed by the CCE as defined in paragraph 880.4(1)“b.”

(2)For licensure as a mental health counselor, an official transcript verifying completion of a mental health counseling program accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) as defined in paragraph 880.4(2)“a” or an equivalency evaluation of the applicant’s educational credentials completed by the CCE as defined in paragraph 880.4(2)“b.”

d.The applicant is required to take the examination(s) provided in subrule 880.3(1).

e.The applicant for permanent licensure shall submit the required attestation of supervision forms documenting clinical experience as required in rule 481—880.7(154D).

f.The applicant for temporary licensure must submit a supervision plan to the board prior to licensure. Within 30 days of completion of the supervised clinical experience, the attestation of the completed supervised experience must be submitted to the board office. The temporary licensee shall remain under supervision until a permanent license is issued.

g.A temporary license is only valid for the purpose of fulfilling the postgraduate supervised clinical experience requirement. It is valid for three years and may be renewed at the discretion of the board.

h.A licensee who was issued an initial permanent license within six months prior to the renewal shall not be required to renew the license until the renewal date two years later.

i.An application for a temporary or permanent license will be considered active for two years from the date the application is received. If the applicant does not submit all materials within this time period or if the applicant does not meet the requirements for the license, the application shall be considered incomplete. An applicant whose application is filed incomplete must submit a new application, supporting materials, and the application fee. The board shall destroy incomplete applications after two years.

880.2(2) Licensure of behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts.

a.The applicant must submit a completed application for licensure and pay the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.3(147,154D).

b.For licensure as a behavior analyst, the applicant shall submit proof of current BACB certification as a board-certified behavior analyst or board-certified behavior analyst-doctoral. For licensure as an assistant behavior analyst, the applicant shall submit proof of current BACB certification as a board-certified assistant behavior analyst.

880.2(3) Requirements for initial psychology licensure. The following criteria shall apply to licensure:

a.The applicant must submit a completed application for licensure and pay the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.16(147,154B).

b.Except as otherwise stated in these rules, no application will be considered by the board until:

(1)Official copies of academic transcripts sent directly from the school to the board have been received by the board; and

(2)Satisfactory evidence of the candidate’s qualifications has been supplied in writing on the prescribed forms by the candidate’s supervisors.

c.An applicant shall successfully pass the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

d.The applicant shall have the national examination score sent directly from the ASPPB to the board.

e.Incomplete applications that have been on file in the board office for more than two years without additional supporting documentation shall be:

(1)Considered invalid and shall be destroyed; or

(2)Maintained upon written request of the applicant. The applicant is responsible for requesting that the file be maintained.

880.2(4) Requirements for provisional license.

a.Predoctoral internship. An applicant for a provisional license for purposes of completing a predoctoral internship shall provide the following:

(1)A completed provisional application for licensure and the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.16(147,154B).

(2)A copy of the applicant’s acceptance letter for the predoctoral internship.

(3)Identification of the training director and the training director’s contact information.

(4)Evidence that the applicant is enrolled in an educational program that meets the requirements of rule 481—880.4(154B,154C,154D).

b.Postdoctoral residency. An applicant for a provisional license for purposes of completing a postdoctoral residency shall provide the following:

(1)A completed application for licensure and the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.16(147,154B).

(2)Official copies of academic transcripts sent directly from the school establishing that the requirements stated in subrule 880.4(4) are met.

(3)A completed supervision plan on the prescribed board form, signed by the applicant’s supervisors. A change in supervisor or in the supervision plan requires submission of a new supervision plan on the prescribed board form.

c.Duration. The provisional license is effective for two years from the date of issuance. A provisional license issued for purposes of completing a predoctoral internship can be used for purposes of completing a postdoctoral residency until the provisional license expires. The provisional licensee shall submit a completed supervision plan on the prescribed board form, signed by the licensee’s supervisors, prior to beginning the postdoctoral residency. A change in supervisor or in the supervision plan requires submission of a new supervision plan on the prescribed board form. A provisional license may be renewed one time for a period of two years upon submission of the following:

(1)A provisional license renewal application;

(2)A provisional license renewal fee; and

(3)A current supervision plan as required in these rules.

880.2(5) Certified health service provider in psychology.

a.Requirements for the health service provider in psychology. The applicant shall:

(1)Verify at least one year of clinical experience in an organized health service training program that meets the requirements of paragraph 880.2(5)“b” and at least one year of clinical experience in a health service setting that meets the requirements for postdoctoral residency stated in rule 481—880.8(154B). Alternatively, an applicant may submit verification of current registration at the doctoral level by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists to verify completion of the required clinical experience.

(2)Submit a completed application and nonrefundable application fee along with supporting documentation. Incomplete applications that have been on file in the board office for more than two years without additional supporting documentation shall be:

1.Considered invalid and shall be destroyed; or

2.Maintained upon written request of the applicant. The applicant is responsible for requesting that the file be maintained.

(3)Renew the certificate biennially at the same time as the psychology license.

b.Requirements of the organized health service training program. Internship programs in professional psychology that are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) or that hold membership in the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) are deemed approved. Applicants completing an organized health service training program that is not accredited by the APA or the CPA, or is not APPIC-designated at the time the applicant completes the training shall cause documentation to be sent from the program to establish that the program:

(1)Provides the intern with a planned, programmed sequence of training experiences.

(2)Has a clearly designated doctoral-level staff psychologist who is responsible for the integrity and quality of the training program and is actively licensed by the board of psychology in the jurisdiction in which the program exists.

(3)Has two or more doctoral-level psychologists on the staff who serve as supervisors, at least one of whom is actively licensed by the board of psychology in the jurisdiction in which the program exists.

(4)Has supervision that is provided by staff members of the organized health service training program or by an affiliate of the organized health service training program who carries clinical responsibility for the cases being supervised. At least half of the internship supervision shall be provided by one or more doctoral-level psychologists.

(5)Provides training in a range of psychological assessment and treatment activities conducted directly with recipients of psychological services.

(6)Ensures that trainees have a minimum of 375 hours of direct patient contact.

(7)Includes a minimum of two hours per week (regardless of whether the internship is completed in one year or two years) of regularly scheduled, formal, face-to-face individual supervision with the specific intent of dealing with psychological services rendered directly by the intern. There must also be at least two additional hours per week in learning activities such as case conferences involving a case in which the intern is actively involved, seminars dealing with clinical issues, cotherapy with a staff person including discussion, group supervision, and additional individual supervision.

(8)Has training that is at the postclerkship, postpracticum, and postexternship level.

(9)Has a minimum of two interns at the internship level of training during any period of training.

(10)Designates for internship-level trainees titles such as “intern,” “resident,” “fellow,” or other designation of trainee status.

(11)Has a written statement or brochure that describes the goals and content of the internship, states clear expectations for quantity and quality of trainees’ work and is made available to prospective interns.

(12)Provides a minimum of 1,500 hours of training experience that shall be completed in no less than 12 months within a 24-consecutive-month period.

880.2(6) Exemption to licensure. Psychologists residing outside the state of Iowa and intending to practice in Iowa under the provisions of Iowa Code section 154B.3(5) shall complete and submit the application for the exemption to licensure and the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.16(147,154B).

a.The applicant shall provide a summary of the intent to practice and a verification of the license in the applicant’s jurisdiction of residence, sent directly from the jurisdiction to the board office. Web-based verification may be substituted for verification direct from the jurisdiction’s board office if the verification provides:

(1)Licensee’s name;

(2)Date of initial licensure;

(3)Current licensure status; and

(4)Any disciplinary action taken against the license.

b.The exemption must be issued prior to practice in Iowa. The exemption shall be valid for 10 consecutive business days or not to exceed 15 business days in any 90-day period.

880.2(7) Requirements for social work licensure. The following criteria shall apply to licensure:

a.The applicant must submit a completed application for licensure and pay the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.19(147,154C).

b.No application will be considered by the board until official copies of academic transcripts have been received by the board except as provided in paragraph 880.2(7)“g.”

c.The applicant provides verification of license from the jurisdiction in which the applicant has most recently been licensed, sent directly from the jurisdiction to the board office. The applicant must also disclose any public or pending complaints against the applicant in any other jurisdiction. Web-based verification may be substituted for verification direct from the jurisdiction’s board office if the verification provides:

(1)Licensee’s name;

(2)Date of initial licensure;

(3)Current licensure status; and

(4)Any disciplinary action taken against the license.

d.The applicant will take the examination(s) provided in subrule 880.3(3).

e.Licensees who were issued their initial licenses within six months prior to the renewal shall not be required to renew their licenses until the renewal date two years later.

f.Incomplete applications that have been on file in the board office for more than two years will be:

(1)Considered invalid and be destroyed; or

(2)Maintained upon written request of the applicant. The applicant is responsible for requesting that the file be maintained.

g.In lieu of the requirements in paragraphs 880.2(7)“b” and “c,” the board will accept the ASWB Social Work Registry verification of academic transcripts and verification of licensure in other states.

481—880.3(154B,154C,154D) Examination requirements.

880.3(1) Examination requirements for mental health counselors and marital and family therapists. The following criteria shall apply to the written examination(s):

a.The applicant will take and pass the following examinations in order to qualify for licensing:

(1)For a marital and family therapist license, the AMFTRB Examination in Marital and Family Therapy.

(2)For a mental health counselor license, the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination (NCMHCE) of the NBCC.

(3)For a temporary mental health counselor license, the NCMHCE of the NBCC or the National Counselor Examination (NCE) of the NBCC.

If the NCMHCE is passed for the temporary mental health counselor license, it does not need to be taken a second time when applying for the full mental health counselor license.

b.The passing score on the written examination shall be the passing point criterion established by the appropriate national testing authority at the time the test was administered.

c.An applicant for a marital and family therapist license who is requesting approval to take the licensure examination prior to graduation shall:

(1)Submit a completed online application for licensure and pay the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.3(147,154D).

(2)Have a letter on official school letterhead sent directly from the program director to the board indicating that the applicant is in good academic standing, that the applicant will graduate from the program within three months of the date on the letter, and the applicant’s anticipated date of graduation.

d.An applicant for a temporary or full mental health counselor license shall register for the examination directly with the NBCC.

880.3(2) Psychology examination requirements. An applicant will pass the national examination to be eligible for licensure in Iowa.

a.To be eligible to take the national examination, the applicant will:

(1)Meet all requirements of paragraphs 880.2(3)“a” and “b”; and

(2)Provide official copies of academic transcripts sent directly from the school to the board of psychology verifying completion of a doctoral degree in psychology in accordance with subrule 880.4(4).

b.The EPPP passing score shall be utilized as the Iowa passing score.

880.3(3) Social work examination requirements.

a.The applicant will take and pass the ASWB examination at the appropriate level as follows:

(1)Bachelor-level social worker—the basic level examination.

(2)Master-level social worker—the intermediate level examination.

(3)Independent-level social worker—the clinical level examination.

b.The board will accept only official results from the ASWB examination service that are sent directly from the examination service to the board.

c.The ASWB passing score will be utilized as the Iowa passing score.

d.An applicant may sit for the examination if the applicant meets the requirements stated in subrule 880.2(7). Upon written request of the applicant, the board may authorize a student to sit for the examination prior to the receipt of the official transcript if the student is in the last semester of an approved master of social work program. The student shall submit an application for licensure at the master level and the fee, and, in lieu of a transcript, the student shall request that the school submit a letter directly to the board office. The letter shall state that the student is currently enrolled in a master of social work program and the student’s expected date of graduation. Upon completion of degree requirements, the applicant shall have the transcript showing the date of the degree sent directly from the school to the board office.

e.In lieu of the requirements in paragraph 880.3(3)“b,” the board will accept the ASWB Social Work Registry verification of the ASWB examination results.

f.In lieu of the requirements in paragraph 880.3(3)“a,” the board will accept verification of passing the state of California equivalent level licensing examination.

481—880.4(154B,154C,154D) Educational requirements.

880.4(1) Educational qualifications for marital and family therapists. The applicant must complete the required semester credit hours, or equivalent quarter hours, of graduate level coursework in each of the content areas identified in paragraph 880.4(1)“b”; no course may be used more than once. The applicant must present proof of completion of the following educational requirements for licensure as a marital and family therapist:

a.Accredited program. Applicants must present with the application an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree of 60 semester hours (or 80 quarter hours or equivalent) or a doctoral degree in marital and family therapy from a program accredited by the COAMFTE from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education. Applicants who entered a program of study prior to July 1, 2010, must present with the application an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree of 45 semester hours or the equivalent; or

b.Content-equivalent program. Applicants must present an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree of 60 semester hours (or 80 quarter hours or equivalent) or a doctoral degree in marital and family therapy, behavioral science, or a counseling-related field from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education, which is content-equivalent to a graduate degree in marital and family therapy. Applicants who entered a program of study prior to July 1, 2010, must present with the application an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree of 45 semester hours or the equivalent. Graduates from non-COAMFTE-accredited marital and family therapy programs shall provide an equivalency evaluation of the graduates’ educational credentials by the CCE, website cce-global.org.

880.4(2) Educational qualifications for mental health counselors. The applicant must complete three semester credit hours, or equivalent quarter hours, of graduate level coursework in each of the content areas identified in paragraph 880.4(2)“b”; no course may be used to fulfill more than one content area. The applicant must present proof of completion of the following educational requirements for licensure as a mental health counselor:

a.Accredited program. Applicants must present with the application an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree of 60 semester hours (or equivalent quarter hours) or a doctoral degree in counseling with emphasis in mental health counseling from a mental health counseling program accredited by the CACREP from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education. Applicants who entered a program of study prior to July 1, 2012, must present with the application an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree of 45 semester hours or the equivalent; or

b.Content-equivalent program. Applicants must present an official transcript verifying completion of a master’s degree or a doctoral degree from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the United States Department of Education that is content-equivalent to a master’s degree in counseling with emphasis in mental health counseling. Graduates from non-CACREP accredited mental health counseling programs shall provide an equivalency evaluation of their educational credentials by the CCE, website cce-global.org.

880.4(3) Foreign-trained marital and family therapists or mental health counselors. Foreign-trained marital and family therapists or mental health counselors shall:

a.Provide an equivalency evaluation of their educational credentials by the following: International Education Research Foundation, Inc., Credentials Evaluation Service, P.O. Box 3665, Culver City, CA 90231-3665; telephone 310.258.9451; website www.ierf.org or email at info@ierf.org. A candidate shall bear the expense of the curriculum evaluation.

b.Receive a final determination from the board regarding the application for licensure.

880.4(4) Psychology educational qualifications. An applicant for licensure to practice as a psychologist shall possess a doctoral degree in psychology.

a.At the time of an applicant’s graduation:

(1)The program from which the doctoral degree in psychology is granted must be:

1.Accredited by the APA;

2.Accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association; or

3.Designated by the ASPPB/National Register; or

(2)The applicant must hold current board certification from the American Board of Professional Psychology; or

(3)The applicant must possess a postdoctoral respecialization certificate from a program accredited by the APA.

b.Foreign-trained psychologists who possess a doctoral degree in psychology and who do not meet the requirements of paragraph 880.4(4)“a” will:

(1)Provide an equivalency evaluation of their educational credentials by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists, 1200 New York Avenue NW, Suite 800, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone 202.783.7663, website www.nationalregister.org, or by an evaluation service with membership in the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services at www.naces.org. A certified translation of documents submitted in a language other than English shall be provided. The candidate will bear the expense of the curriculum evaluation and translation of application documents. The educational credentials must be equivalent to programs stated in paragraph 880.4(4)“a.”

(2)Submit evidence of meeting all other requirements for licensure stated in these rules.

880.4(5) Social work educational qualifications.

a.Bachelor level social worker. An applicant for a license will possess a bachelor’s degree in social work from a college or university accredited by the Council on Social Work Education at the time of graduation.

b.Master and independent level social worker. An applicant for a license will present evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant:

(1)Possesses a master’s degree in social work from a college or university accredited by the Council on Social Work Education at the time of graduation; or

(2)Possesses a doctoral degree in social work from a college or university approved by the board at the time of graduation.

c.Foreign-trained social workers shall provide an equivalency evaluation of their educational credentials by International Education Research Foundation, Inc., Credentials Evaluation Service, P.O. Box 3665, Culver City, California 90231-3665, telephone 310.258.9451, website www.ierf.org or email at info@ierf.org; or obtain a certificate of equivalency from the Council on Social Work Education, 1701 Duke Street, Suite 200, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-3457, telephone 703.683.8080, website www.cswe.org. The professional curriculum must be equivalent to that stated in these rules. The applicant shall bear the expense of the curriculum evaluation.

481—880.5(154D) Licensure by endorsement for mental health counselors and marital and family therapists. An applicant who has been a licensed marriage and family therapist or mental health counselor under the laws of another jurisdiction may file an application for licensure by endorsement with the board office.

880.5(1) The board may receive by endorsement any applicant from the District of Columbia or another state, territory, province or foreign country who:

a.Meets the requirements of paragraph 880.2(1)“a”; and

b.Provides verification of license from the jurisdiction in which the applicant has been most recently licensed, sent directly from the jurisdiction to the board office. The applicant must also disclose any public or pending complaints against the applicant in any other jurisdiction. Web-based verification may be substituted for verification direct from the jurisdiction’s board office if the verification provides:

(1)Licensee’s name;

(2)Date of initial licensure;

(3)Current licensure status; and

(4)Any disciplinary action taken against the license.

880.5(2) A person who is licensed in another jurisdiction but who is unable to satisfy the requirements for licensure by endorsement may apply for licensure by verification, if eligible, in accordance with rule 481—501.1(272C).

481—880.6(147) Licensure by endorsement for psychologists. An applicant who possesses a doctoral degree in psychology and has been a licensed psychologist at the doctoral level under the laws of another jurisdiction may file an application for licensure by endorsement with the board office.

880.6(1) The board may license by endorsement any applicant from the District of Columbia or another state, territory, province, or foreign country who:

a.Submits a completed application for licensure and pay the nonrefundable licensure fee specified in rule 481—507.16(147,154B).

b.Provides verification of license from the jurisdiction in which the applicant has most recently been licensed, and additional verifications if necessary to verify at least three years of an independent license as described in paragraph 880.6(1)“c” sent directly from the jurisdiction to the board office. The applicant must also disclose any public or pending complaints against the applicant in any other jurisdiction. Web-based verification may be substituted for verification direct from the jurisdiction’s board office if the verification provides:

(1)Licensee’s name;

(2)Date of initial licensure;

(3)Current licensure status; and

(4)Any disciplinary action taken against the license.

c.Provides verification of a current Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) issued by the ASPPB, or verification of a doctoral degree in psychology and an independent license to practice psychology in another jurisdiction for at least three years with no disciplinary history. Except as stated in paragraph 880.4(4)“b,” applicants providing certification or verification are deemed to have met the requirements stated in subparagraphs 880.6(1)“c”(1) and “c”(2). The board may license by endorsement any other applicant who:

(1)Provides the official EPPP score sent directly to the board from the ASPPB or verification of the EPPP score sent directly from the state of initial licensure. The recommended passing score established by the ASPPB shall be considered passing.

(2)Shows evidence of licensure requirements that are substantially equivalent to those required in Iowa by one of the following means:

1.Provides:

●Official copies of academic transcripts that have been sent directly from the school; and

●Satisfactory evidence of the applicant’s qualifications in writing on the prescribed forms by the applicant’s supervisors. If verification of professional experience is not available, the board may consider submission of documentation from the jurisdiction in which the applicant is currently licensed or equivalent documentation of supervision; or

2.Has an official copy of one of the following certifications sent directly to the board from the certifying organization:

●Current credentialing at the doctoral level as a health service provider in psychology by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists.

●Board certification by the American Board of Professional Psychology that was originally granted on or after January 1, 1983.

880.6(2) Licensure by verification. A person who is licensed in another jurisdiction but who is unable to satisfy the requirements for licensure by endorsement may apply for licensure by verification, if eligible, in accordance with rule 481—501.1(272C).

481—880.7(154C,154D) Supervised clinical experience. An applicant for licensure as a mental health counselor, marital and family therapist, or independent level social worker must complete a supervised clinical experience as set forth in this rule.

880.7(1) Minimum requirements. The supervised clinical experience must satisfy all of the following requirements:

a.Timing. The supervised clinical experience cannot begin until after all graduate coursework has been completed with the exception of the thesis.

b.Duration. The supervised clinical experience must be for a minimum of two years.

c.Minimum number of hours. The supervised clinical experience must consist of at least 3,000 hours of total practice.

d.Minimum number of direct client hours. The supervised clinical experience will consist of at least 1,500 hours of direct client contact.

e.Minimum number of direct supervision hours. The supervised clinical experience will consist of at least 110 hours of direct supervision equitably distributed throughout the supervised clinical experience. A maximum of 50 hours of direct supervision may be obtained through group supervision. Direct supervision can occur in person or by using videoconferencing. After 110 hours of direct supervision are complete, ongoing direct supervision will continue to occur for the remainder of the supervised clinical experience.

f.Number of supervisors. A supervisee may utilize a maximum of four supervisors at any given time. A supervisee is responsible for notifying each supervisor if another supervisor is also being utilized to allow for coordination as appropriate.

g.Number of supervisees. A supervisor will determine the number of supervisees who can be supervised safely and competently and will not exceed that number.

h.Content. The supervised clinical experience must involve performing psychosocial assessments, diagnostic practice using the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) published March 2022, and providing treatment, including the establishment of treatment goals, psychosocial therapy using evidence-based therapeutic modalities, and differential treatment planning. The supervised clinical experience will prepare the supervisee for independent practice and must include training on practice management, ethical standards, legal and regulatory requirements, documentation, coordination of care, and self-care.

880.7(2) Eligible supervisors. A supervisor must satisfy all of the following requirements:

a.Hold an active license as an independent level social worker, mental health counselor, or marital and family therapist in Iowa.

b.Have a minimum of three years of independent practice.

c.Have completed at least a six-hour continuing education course in supervision or one graduate-level course in supervision.

d.Be knowledgeable of the applicable ethical code and licensing rules governing the supervisee. Any request for a supervisor who does not meet these requirements must be approved by the board before supervision begins.

880.7(3) Supervision plan. Prior to beginning supervision, the supervisee will submit a written supervision plan to the board using the current form published by the board. The supervisee will also submit a written supervision plan to the board prior to beginning supervision with a new supervisor.

880.7(4) Supervision report. When supervision is complete, or when a supervisor ceases providing supervision to the supervisee, the supervisee will ensure a completed supervision report using the current form published by the board is submitted to the board. If the supervisor reports that the supervisee is not adequately prepared for independent licensure, or reports violations of the board’s rules or applicable ethical code, the board may require the supervisee to complete additional supervision or training as deemed appropriate prior to licensure.

880.7(5) Supervised clinical experience in other states. An applicant who completed some or all of the supervised clinical experience in another state without obtaining licensure in that state should contact the board to determine whether some or all of the supervised clinical experience that has been completed can be used to qualify for licensure in Iowa.

880.7(6) Grandfather clause. Any new or additional requirements imposed by this rule do not apply to supervision that started prior to July 20, 2022.

481—880.8(154B) Psychology postdoctoral residency.

880.8(1) The postdoctoral residency may begin after all academic requirements for the doctoral degree, including completion of the predoctoral internship, have been completed. The postdoctoral residency shall consist of a minimum of 1,500 hours that are completed in no less than ten months.

880.8(2) During the postdoctoral residency, the supervisee will competently apply the principles of psychology under the supervision of a licensed psychologist who is actively licensed in the jurisdiction where the supervision occurs in accordance with the following:

a.The supervisee and supervisor will complete a supervision plan using the form provided by the board. The supervision plan must be submitted to the board if the supervisee is applying for or utilizing a provisional license.

b.A supervisor will not have more than three concurrent full-time supervisees or the equivalent in part-time supervisees. Full-time is defined as 40 hours per week.

c.The supervisee and supervisor will meet individually in person or via videoconferencing during each week in which postdoctoral residency hours are accrued, for no less than a total of 45 hours during the postdoctoral residency. Group supervision hours cannot count toward the 45 hours of individual supervision required.

d.The supervisor will provide supervision at all times, which means the supervisor will be readily available on site, or via electronic or telephonic means, at all times when the supervisee is providing services so that the supervisee may contact the supervisor for advice, assistance, or instruction. A supervisor will identify one or more licensed mental health providers who can be contacted for advice, assistance, or instruction during times in which the supervisor will not be readily available.

e.The supervisee and supervisor will have a crisis plan in place any time the supervisee is providing services and the supervisor is not on site in the same physical setting as the supervisee.

f.The supervisor will establish and maintain a level of supervisory contact consistent with established professional standards and be fully accountable in the event that professional, ethical or legal issues are raised.

g.The supervisor will provide training that is appropriate to the functions to be performed. The supervisee shall have the background, training, and experience that is appropriate to the functions performed. The supervisor shall not permit the supervisee to engage in any psychological practice that the supervisor cannot perform competently.

h.The supervisor and supervisee will ensure clients are informed regarding the supervisee’s status and the sharing of information between the supervisee and supervisor.

i.The supervisor will have reasonable access to the clinical records corresponding to the work being supervised. The supervisor will countersign all written reports, clinical records and clinical communications as “Reviewed and Approved” by the supervisor.

j.All services will be offered in the name of the supervisor. The supervisee and supervisor will ensure that the supervisee uses a title in accordance with rule 481—880.17(147,154B).

k.The fee schedule and receipt of payment will remain the sole domain of the supervisor or employing agency.

l.The supervisor will maintain an ongoing record of supervision that details the types of activities in which the supervisee is engaged, the level of the supervisee’s competence in each, and the type and outcome of all procedures.

m.The supervisor is responsible for determining the competency of the work performed by the supervisee and must honestly and accurately complete the supervision report at the conclusion of providing supervision.

481—880.9(154B) Psychologists’ supervision of persons other than postdoctoral residents in a practice setting.

880.9(1) This rule applies when a psychologist is supervising individuals who are not licensed or who are provisionally licensed and completing the predoctoral internship. This rule does not apply to supervision of an individual completing a postdoctoral residency in accordance with rule 481—880.17(147,154B), regardless of whether the individual is provisionally licensed or not.

880.9(2) The supervising psychologist will:

a.Be vested with administrative control over the functioning of assistants in order to maintain ultimate responsibility for the welfare of every client. When the employer is a person other than the supervising psychologist, the supervising psychologist must have direct input into administrative matters.

b.Have sufficient knowledge of all clients, including face-to-face contact when necessary, in order to plan effective service delivery procedures. The progress of the work will be monitored through such means as will ensure that full legal and professional responsibility can be accepted by the supervisor for all services rendered. Supervisors will also be available for emergency consultation and intervention.

c.Provide work assignments that are commensurate with the skills of the supervisee. All procedures will be planned in consultation with the supervisor.

d.Work in the same physical setting as the supervisee unless the supervisee is receiving formal training pursuant to the requirements for licensure as a psychologist. For supervisees working off site while receiving formal licensure training, ensure the off-site location has a licensed mental health provider or primary care provider on site whenever the supervisee is working for purposes of providing emergency consultation.

e.Make public announcement of services and fees; contact with laypersons or the professional community will be offered only by or in the name of the supervising psychologist. Titles of unlicensed persons must clearly indicate their supervised status.

f.Provide specific information to clients when an unlicensed person delivers services to those clients, including disclosure of the unlicensed person’s status and information regarding the person’s qualifications and functions.

g.Inform clients of the possibility of periodic meetings with the supervising psychologist at the client’s, the supervisee’s or the supervisor’s request.

h.Provide for setting and receipt of payment that will remain the sole domain of the employing agency or supervising psychologist.

i.Establish and maintain a level of supervisory contact consistent with established professional standards and be fully accountable in the event that professional, ethical or legal issues are raised.

j.Provide a detailed job description in which functions are designated at varying levels of difficulty, requiring increasing levels of training, skill and experience. This job description will be made available to representatives of the board and service recipients upon request.

k.Be responsible for the planning, course, and outcome of the work. The conduct of supervision shall ensure the professional, ethical, and legal protection of the client and of the unlicensed persons.

l.Countersign all written reports, clinical records and clinical communications as “Reviewed and Approved” by the supervising psychologist.

481—880.10(147) License renewal for mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists.

880.10(1) The biennial license renewal period for a license to practice marital and family therapy or mental health counseling shall begin on October 1 of an even-numbered year and end on September 30 of the next even-numbered year. The licensee is responsible for renewing the license prior to its expiration. Failure of the licensee to receive notice from the board does not relieve the licensee of the responsibility for renewing the license.

880.10(2) A licensee seeking renewal shall:

a.Meet the continuing education requirements of rule 481—881.2(272C). A licensee whose license was reactivated during the current renewal compliance period may use continuing education credit earned during the compliance period for the first renewal following reactivation; and

b.Submit the completed renewal application and renewal fee before the license expiration date. An individual who was issued a license within six months of the license renewal date will not be required to renew the license until the next renewal two years later.

880.10(3) Mandatory reporter training requirements.

a.A licensee who, in the scope of professional practice or in the licensee’s employment responsibilities, examines, attends, counsels or treats children in Iowa shall indicate on the renewal application completion of two hours of training in child abuse identification and reporting as required by Iowa Code section 232.69(3)“b” in the previous three years or condition(s) for waiver of this requirement as identified in paragraph 880.10(3)“d.”

b.A licensee who, in the course of employment, examines, attends, counsels or treats adults in Iowa shall indicate on the renewal application completion of two hours of training in dependent adult abuse identification and reporting as required by Iowa Code section 235B.16(5)“b” in the previous three years or condition(s) for waiver of this requirement as identified in paragraph 880.10(3)“d.”

c.The licensee shall maintain written documentation for five years after mandatory training as identified in paragraphs 880.10(3)“a” and “b,” including program date(s), content, duration, and proof of participation.

d.The requirement for mandatory training for identifying and reporting child and dependent adult abuse shall be suspended if the board determines that suspension is in the public interest or that a person at the time of license renewal:

(1)Is engaged in active duty in the military service of this state or the United States.

(2)Holds a current waiver by the board based on evidence of significant hardship in complying with training requirements, including an exemption of continuing education requirements or extension of time in which to fulfill requirements due to a physical or mental disability or illness as identified in 481—Chapter 500.

e.The board may select licensees for audit of compliance with the requirements in paragraphs 880.10(3)“a” through “d.”

880.10(4) Upon receiving the information required by this rule and the required fee, board staff shall administratively issue a two-year license. In the event the board receives adverse information on the renewal application, the board shall issue the renewal license but may refer the adverse information for further consideration or disciplinary investigation.

880.10(5) A person licensed to practice as a marital and family therapist or mental health counselor shall keep the person’s license certificate and wallet card displayed in a conspicuous public place at the primary site of practice.

880.10(6) Late renewal. The license shall become late when the license has not been renewed by the expiration date on the wallet card. The licensee shall be assessed a late fee as specified in 481—subrule 507.3(3). To renew a late license, the licensee shall complete the renewal requirements and submit the late fee within the grace period.

880.10(7) Inactive license. A licensee who fails to renew the license by the end of the grace period has an inactive license. A licensee whose license is inactive continues to hold the privilege of licensure in Iowa, but shall not practice mental health counseling or marital and family therapy in Iowa until the license is reactivated. A licensee who practices mental health counseling or marital and family therapy in the state of Iowa with an inactive license may be subject to disciplinary action by the board, injunctive action pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.83, criminal sanctions pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.86, and other available legal remedies.

481—880.11(272C) Initial licensing, reactivation, and license renewal for behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts.

880.11(1) An initial license for a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst shall be issued with the same expiration date as the applicant’s current certification issued by BACB.

880.11(2) The biennial license renewal period for a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst shall run concurrent with the licensee’s BACB certification. Each license renewed shall be given the expiration date that is on the licensee’s current BACB certification. The licensee is responsible for renewing the license prior to its expiration. Failure of the licensee to receive notice from the board does not relieve the licensee of the responsibility for renewing the license.

880.11(3) A licensee seeking renewal shall:

a.Meet the continuing education requirements required by BACB to renew a certification.

b.Maintain current certification as a board-certified behavior analyst, board-certified behavior analyst-doctoral, or board-certified assistant behavior analyst issued by BACB.

c.Submit the completed renewal application and renewal fee before the license expiration date.

880.11(4) Upon receiving the information required by this rule and the required fee, board staff shall administratively issue a license. In the event the board receives adverse information on the renewal application, the board shall issue the renewal license but may refer the adverse information for further consideration or disciplinary investigation.

880.11(5) A person licensed as a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst shall keep the person’s license certificate and renewal displayed in a conspicuous public place at the primary site of practice.

880.11(6) Late renewal. The license shall become late when the license has not been renewed by the expiration date on the renewal. The licensee shall be assessed a late fee as specified in 481—subrule 507.3(5). To renew a late license, the licensee shall complete the renewal requirements and submit the late fee within the grace period.

880.11(7) Inactive license. A licensee who fails to renew the license by the end of the grace period has an inactive license. A licensee whose license is inactive continues to hold the privilege of licensure in Iowa, but shall not engage in the practice of applied behavior analysis for which a license is required in Iowa until the license is reactivated. A licensee who practices applied behavior analysis in a capacity that requires licensure in the state of Iowa with an inactive license may be subject to disciplinary action by the board, injunctive action pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.83, criminal sanctions pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.86, and other available legal remedies.

880.11(8) Reactivation. To apply for reactivation of an inactive license, a licensee shall submit a completed renewal application and proof of current certification and shall be assessed a reactivation fee as specified in 481—subrule 507.3(6).

481—880.12(147) Psychology license renewal.

880.12(1) The biennial license renewal period for a license to practice psychology shall begin on July 1 of even-numbered years and end on June 30 of the next even-numbered year. The licensee is responsible for renewing the license prior to its expiration. Failure of the licensee to receive notice from the board does not relieve the licensee of the responsibility for renewing the license.

880.12(2) An individual who was issued a license within six months of the license renewal date will not be required to renew the license until the subsequent renewal date two years later.

880.12(3) A licensee seeking renewal shall:

a.Meet the continuing education requirements of rule 481—881.2(272C) and the mandatory reporting requirements of subrule 880.12(4). A licensee whose license was reactivated during the current renewal compliance period may use continuing education credit earned during the compliance period for the first renewal following reactivation; and

b.Submit the completed renewal application and renewal fee before the license expiration date.

880.12(4) Mandatory reporter training requirements.

a.A licensee who, in the scope of professional practice or in the licensee’s employment responsibilities, examines, attends, counsels or treats children in Iowa shall indicate on the renewal application completion of two hours of training in child abuse identification and reporting as required by Iowa Code section 232.69(3)“b” in the previous three years or condition(s) for waiver of this requirement as identified in paragraph 880.12(4)“e.”

b.A licensee who, in the course of employment, examines, attends, counsels or treats adults in Iowa shall indicate on the renewal application completion of training in dependent adult abuse identification and reporting as required by Iowa Code section 235B.16(5)“b” in the previous three years or condition(s) for waiver of this requirement as identified in paragraph 880.12(4)“e.”

c.The course(s) shall be the curriculum provided by the department of health and human services.

d.The licensee shall maintain written documentation for three years after mandatory training as identified in paragraphs 880.12(4)“a” through “c,” including program date(s), content, duration, and proof of participation.

e.The requirement for mandatory training for identifying and reporting child and dependent adult abuse shall be suspended if the board determines that suspension is in the public interest or that a person at the time of license renewal:

(1)Is engaged in active duty in the military service of this state or the United States.

(2)Holds a current waiver by the board based on evidence of significant hardship in complying with training requirements, including an exemption of continuing education requirements or extension of time in which to fulfill requirements due to a physical or mental disability or illness as identified in rule 481—500.9(272C).

f.The board may select licensees for audit of compliance with the requirements in paragraphs 880.12(4)“a” through “e.”

880.12(5) Upon receiving the information required by this rule and the required fee, board staff shall administratively issue a two-year license. In the event the board receives adverse information on the renewal application, the board shall issue the renewal license but may refer the adverse information for further consideration or disciplinary investigation.

880.12(6) A person licensed to practice as a psychologist shall keep the person’s license certificate and renewal displayed in a conspicuous public place at the primary site of practice.

880.12(7) Late renewal.

a.The license shall become late when the license has not been renewed by the expiration date on the renewal. The licensee shall be assessed a late fee as specified in 481—subrule 507.16(3).

b.To renew a late license, the licensee shall complete the renewal requirements and submit the late fee within the grace period.

880.12(8) Inactive license. A licensee who fails to renew the license by the end of the grace period has an inactive license. A licensee whose license is inactive continues to hold the privilege of licensure in Iowa but shall not practice as a psychologist or health service provider in psychology in Iowa until the license is reactivated. A licensee who practices as a psychologist or health service provider in psychology in the state of Iowa with an inactive license may be subject to disciplinary action by the board, injunctive action pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.83, criminal sanctions pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.86, and other available legal remedies.

481—880.13(154C) Social work license renewal.

880.13(1) The biennial license renewal period for a license to practice social work will begin on January 1 of odd-numbered years and end on December 31 of the next even-numbered year. Every licensee will renew on a biennial basis. The licensee is responsible for renewing the license prior to its expiration. Failure of the licensee to receive notice does not relieve the licensee of the responsibility for renewing the license.

880.13(2) Renewal procedures.

a.A licensee seeking renewal will:

(1)Meet the continuing education requirements of rule 481—881.2(272C) and the mandatory reporting requirements of subrule 880.13(3); and

(2)Submit the completed renewal application and renewal fee before the license expiration date.

b.Those persons licensed for the first time will not be required to complete continuing education as a prerequisite for the first renewal of their licenses. Continuing education hours acquired anytime from the initial licensing until the second license renewal may be used. The new licensee will be required to complete a minimum of 27 hours of continuing education per biennium for each subsequent license renewal.

c.Persons licensed to practice social work shall keep their renewal licenses displayed in a conspicuous public place at the primary site of practice.

d.Failure to receive the notice of renewal will not relieve the licensee of the responsibility for submitting the required materials and the renewal fee to the board office 30 days before license expiration.

e.A social worker whose Iowa license is delinquent, closed, retired, voluntarily surrendered, suspended, or revoked cannot advance to a higher level until the license is again active.

880.13(3) Mandatory reporter training requirements.

a.A licensee who, in the scope of professional practice or in the licensee’s employment responsibilities, examines, attends, counsels or treats children in Iowa shall indicate on the renewal application completion of two hours of training in child abuse identification and reporting as required by Iowa Code section 232.69(3)“b” in the previous three years or condition(s) for waiver of this requirement as identified in paragraph 880.13(3)“e.”

b.A licensee who, in the course of employment, examines, attends, counsels or treats adults in Iowa shall indicate on the renewal application completion of training in dependent adult abuse identification and reporting as required by Iowa Code section 235B.16(5)“b” in the previous three years or condition(s) for waiver of this requirement as identified in paragraph 880.13(3)“e.”

c.The course(s) shall be the curriculum provided by the department of health and human services.

d.The licensee shall maintain written documentation for three years after mandatory training as identified in paragraphs 880.13(3)“a” through “c,” including program date(s), content, duration, and proof of participation.

e.The requirement for mandatory training for identifying and reporting child and dependent adult abuse shall be suspended if the board determines that suspension is in the public interest or that a person at the time of license renewal:

(1)Is engaged in active duty in the military service of this state or the United States.

(2)Holds a current waiver by the board based on evidence of significant hardship in complying with training requirements, including an exemption of continuing education requirements or extension of time in which to fulfill requirements due to a physical or mental disability or illness as identified in rule 481—500.9(272C).

f.The board may select licensees for audit of compliance with the requirements in paragraphs 880.13(3)“a” through “e.”

880.13(4) Late renewal. To renew a late license, the licensee will complete the renewal requirements and submit the late fee within the grace period.

880.13(5) Inactive license. A licensee who fails to renew the license by the end of the grace period has an inactive license. A licensee whose license is inactive continues to hold the privilege of licensure in Iowa, but shall not practice as a social worker in Iowa until the license is reactivated. A licensee who practices as a social worker in the state of Iowa with an inactive license may be subject to disciplinary action by the board, injunctive action pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.83, criminal sanctions pursuant to Iowa Code section 147.86, and other available legal remedies.

880.13(6) Upon receiving the information required by this rule and the required fee, board staff will administratively issue a two-year license. In the event the board receives adverse information on the renewal application, the board will issue the renewal license but may refer the adverse information for further consideration or disciplinary investigation.

481—880.14(17A,147,272C) License reactivation for mental health counselors, marital and family therapists, psychologists, and social workers. To apply for reactivation of an inactive license, a licensee shall:

880.14(1) Submit a reactivation application.

880.14(2) Pay the reactivation fee that is due as specified in 481—Chapter 507.

880.14(3) Provide verification of license from the jurisdiction in which the applicant has been most recently licensed, sent directly from the jurisdiction to the board office. The applicant must also disclose any public or pending complaints against the applicant in any other jurisdiction. Web-based verification may be substituted for verification directly from the jurisdiction’s board office if the verification provides:

a.Licensee’s name;

b.Date of initial licensure;

c.Current licensure status; and

d.Any disciplinary action taken against the license.

880.14(4) For mental health counseling and marriage and family therapy, provide verification of a current active license in another jurisdiction at the time of application or verification of completion of continuing education taken within two years of the application. If the license has been inactive for less than five years, the applicant must submit verification of 40 hours of continuing education, and if the license has been inactive for more than five years, the applicant must submit verification of 80 hours of continuing education.

880.14(5) For psychology, provide verification of a current active license in another jurisdiction at the time of application or verification of completion of continuing education taken within two years of the application. If the license has been inactive for less than five years, the applicant must submit verification of 40 hours of continuing education, and if the license has been inactive for more than five years, the applicant must submit verification of 80 hours of continuing education.

880.14(6) For social work, provide:

a.Verification of completion of 27 hours of continuing education within two years of application for reactivation or verification of active practice, consisting of a minimum of 2,080 hours, in another state or jurisdiction during the two years preceding an application for reactivation.

b.If the license has been on inactive status for more than five years, the verification in paragraph 880.14(6)“a” and one of the following:

(1)Verification of passing the ASWB examination within the last five years at the appropriate or higher level as follows:

1.Bachelor-level social worker—the bachelor’s level examination;

2.Master-level social worker—the master’s level examination; or

3.Independent-level social worker—the clinical level examination; or

(2)Verification of continued social work practice at the appropriate or higher level in another state for a minimum of two years immediately preceding the application for reactivation.

481—880.15(17A,147,272C) License reinstatement. A licensee whose license has been revoked, suspended, or voluntarily surrendered must apply for and receive reinstatement of the license in accordance with rule 481—506.31(272C) and must apply for and be granted reactivation of the license in accordance with rule 481—880.14(17A,147,272C) prior to practicing in this state.

481—880.16(154C) Social work services subject to regulation. Social work, marital and family therapy, and mental health counseling services provided to an individual in this state through telephonic, electronic or other means, regardless of the location of the practitioner, shall constitute the practice of the profession and are subject to regulation in Iowa.

481—880.17(147,154B) Psychology title designations.

880.17(1) Students who are enrolled in an education program that satisfies the requirements of subrule 880.4(4) and who are completing the predoctoral internship may be designated “psychology intern” or “intern in psychology.”

880.17(2) Applicants for licensure who have met educational requirements and who are completing the postdoctoral residency to be eligible for licensure may be designated “psychology resident,” “resident in psychology,” “psychology postdoctoral fellow,” or “postdoctoral fellow in psychology.” The designation of “resident” shall not be used except during a postdoctoral residency that meets the requirements of rule 481—880.8(154B).

880.17(3) Persons who possess provisional licenses shall add the designation “provisional license in psychology” following the “resident,” “intern,” or “fellow” designation.

481—880.18(147) Professional counselor licensing compact. The rules of the Counseling Compact Commission are incorporated by reference.

481—880.19(154D) Temporary licensees. A temporary licensee shall engage only in the practice of marital and family therapy or mental health counseling as part of an agency or group practice with oversight over the temporary licensee. The agency or group practice shall have at least one independently licensed mental health provider. A temporary licensee shall not practice as a solo practitioner or solely with other temporary licensees.

These rules are intended to implement Iowa Code chapters 17A, 147, 154B, 154C, 154D and 272C.

ITEM 2.Rescind and reserve 481—Chapter 885.

ITEM 3.Rescind and reserve 481—Chapter 891.

ITEM 4.Rescind and reserve 481—Chapter 895.

[Filed 6/17/25, effective 8/13/25]

[Published 7/9/25]

EDITOR’S NOTE: For replacement pages for IAC, see IAC Supplement 7/9/25.

Official Document

  • Behavioral health professionals licensing; licensure of psychologists; licensure of marital and family therapists, mental health counselors, behavior analysts, and assistant behavior analysts; licensure of social workers, adopt ch 880; rescind chs 885, 891, 895
  • Published on 7/9/2025
  • 126 Views
  • Adopted and Filed

The official published PDF of this document is available from the Iowa General Assembly’s Administrative Rules page.

View Official PDF

View the Iowa Administrative Bulletin for 7/9/2025.

View Bulletin

Related Notices

Keywords

The following keywords and tags were added to this document. You may click a keyword to view related notices.

Accredited program Certified health service provider in psychology Content Content-equivalent program Definitions Duration Educational qualifications for marital and family therapists Educational qualifications for mental health counselors Educational requirements Eligible supervisors Examination requirements Exemption to licensure Grandfather clause License reinstatement License requirements Licensure by endorsement for psychologists Licensure of behavior analysts and assistant behavior analysts Minimum number of direct client hours Minimum number of direct supervision hours Minimum number of hours Minimum requirements Number of supervisees Number of supervisors Postdoctoral residency Predoctoral internship Professional counselor licensing compact Psychology educational qualifications Psychology examination requirements Psychology license renewal Psychology postdoctoral residency Psychology title designations Requirements for initial psychology licensure Requirements for provisional license Requirements for social work licensure Requirements for the health service provider in psychology Requirements of the organized health service training program Social work educational qualifications Social work examination requirements Social work license renewal Social work services subject to regulation Supervised clinical experience Supervised clinical experience in other states Supervision plan Supervision report Temporary licensees Timing
Click To Comment