Governing Board Task Force Meeting

The Governing Board Task Force is a Policy and Professional Advocacy Committee initiative working to establish a dedicated governing board for licensed mental health counselors and associates in Washington State. Our goal is straightforward: the standards, regulations, and scope of practice that govern our profession should be shaped by the people who live and work within it every day.

A governing board is about more than professional autonomy. It creates a structure for transparent, accountable, and evidence-informed oversight that protects the public while strengthening the integrity of our field. Licensed mental health counselors in Washington deserve the same professional governance that other health disciplines have had for years — and we're working to make that happen.

Right now, the task force is focused on three things: helping WMHCA members understand what a governing board is and why it matters, building relationships with allied mental health associations for cross-discipline advocacy, and identifying legislative sponsors for a bill in the 2026–2027 session.

If you're a counselor, supervisor, educator, or advocate who believes our profession deserves a stronger voice in decisions that affect us and the clients we serve — we'd love to have you involved.

We meet on the second Tuesday of the month from 5-6pm.