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Email : infocenter@camft.org
Phone : (858) 292-2638
Dear Members,
It was such a pleasure seeing so many of you at the Fall Symposium last month! Our day in Long Beach was filled with connection, collaboration, and inspiration. We also enjoyed incredible workshops exploring the impact of AI in the mental health space and Law & Ethics considerations for online therapy platforms.
For our pre-licensee members, your time is coming soon! The Pre-Licensed Virtual Summit is right around the corner on December 3rd. This three-hour event will feature staff attorney Kristin Roscoe's Road to Licensure presentation, a brand-new session from our Government Affairs Associate Shanti Ezrine, who will discuss tips and resources for finding grants and loan repayment programs on the local level, and a special update from the BBS. Don’t forget to bring your questions; we’ll have plenty of time for Q&A at the end!
While on the topic of member events, make sure you save May 1-2, 2026 in San Diego for next year’s Annual Conference. Early bird registration is open through January 31, 2026. More details to come!
We also celebrated a legislative victory this past month, as Governor Newsom signed Senate Bill 775 into law, which paves the way for the BBS’s next steps toward adopting the AMFTRB National exam, and makes videoconferencing supervision permanent in all settings.
Now is also a good time to consider making a contribution to CAMFT’s State or Federal Political Action Committee. Our PAC funds are used to contribute to political candidates who understand key issues that are important to MFTs. Now more than ever, we hope that you might be able to make a contribution before the end of the year to strengthen CAMFT’s reach. More information can be found here.
As we head into the holiday season, I want to pause and share my gratitude for our Board, our committee members, and each of you. Your engagement, feedback, and dedication to the profession continue to drive our work forward.
With care, Joy Alafia, MBA, CAE Executive Director
IN THIS NEWSLETTER YOU WILL FIND:
On October 13, 2025, Governor Newsom signed the Board of Behavioral Science’s (BBS) sponsored legislation Senate Bill (SB) 775. This is a major step, as it gives the BBS the option to move forward with regulations as the next step in the adoption of the national exam.
At the earliest, the transition to the national exam will become effective January 2027 – or after, depending on the progress of key implementation activities.
We are working in close collaboration with BBS staff and AMFTRB exam administrators on key implementation activities to ensure a smooth transition to the national exam for California applicants. At the November 2025 BBS Board meeting, AMFTRB exam administrators will meet with the BBS to address questions of the Board. CAMFT hopes to have more information on the status of a possible transition after the BBS’s November meeting.
SUPERVISION VIA VIDEOCONFERENCING NOW PERMANENT
The national exam isn’t the only topic covered in this piece of legislation. Senate Bill (SB) 775 also makes permanent the provision that allows supervision via videoconferencing in all settings.
This means that supervisors and supervisees may continue to hold supervision sessions remotely via videoconferencing, when appropriate.
Reminder: The law requires that within 60 days of starting supervision via videoconferencing, the supervisor must conduct a meeting with their supervisee to assess the appropriateness of allowing supervision via videoconferencing. The assessment must include all of the following, and the supervisor must document the results of their assessment in order for videoconferencing to be used for supervision:
DMHC Fines Cigna for Improperly Reviewing and Denying Health Care Claims Payments
The California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) has taken enforcement action against Cigna for improperly handling health care claims payments submitted by providers after medical services and/or treatment had been provided to health plan members. DMHC found Cigna denied claims using a different review process than its stated policy.
California law requires health plans to maintain policies and procedures to modify or deny claims based on medical necessity. To read more about how to navigate the policies, procedures, and laws surrounding health plans, see CAMFT’s article: Managed Health Care: California Law and Your Rights.
Providers wanting to dispute payment with a health plan should submit the dispute to the payor’s Provider Dispute Resolution (PDR) mechanism. Providers can subsequently request a review from DMHC if the PDR has been filed and is pending within that process for more than 45 working days. Visit the DMHC website Provider Complaint page for more information on the process of disputing a payment with a health plan.
California Attorney General Secures Settlement with Health Net for Inaccurate Provider Directories
California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a $40 million settlement with Health Net for using inaccurate mental health and medical provider directories. As part of the settlement, Health Net agreed to create automated processes and leverage technology to verify the accuracy of providers’ contact information in each directory, identify providers who exclusively provide telehealth services in the directory, and display the date that each provider entry was last updated.
California law requires health plans to implement features that, at a minimum, meet uniform provider directory standards. View the DMHC Uniform Provider Directory Standards for more information on required directory policies and procedures.
The Medicare Mental Health Workforce Coalition – of which CAMFT is a proud member – has officially launched its comprehensive new website, creating a central resource hub for the more than 70,000 mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, and clinical social workers now serving Medicare beneficiaries nationwide.
The new Coalition website provides critical resources that CAMFT members need to successfully navigate Medicare practice, stay informed about policy changes, and deliver high-quality care to older adults.
The timing of this resource launch is crucial. Approximately 15-20% of older adults experience depression, and anxiety disorders affect millions more Medicare beneficiaries. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified these challenges, with older adults experiencing heightened isolation, health concerns, and loss of social connections.
To access Coalition resources and stay updated on Medicare mental health policy, click here.
The BBS Newsletter is your go-to source for the latest updates, announcements, and insights directly from the heart of the Board of Behavioral Sciences. General information topics include updates involving licensing, examination, renewal, regulation/legislation, agenda notices, materials, and, most recently, supervisor updates. To subscribe, please click here.
We’re so excited to announce that our premier magazine, The Therapist, is moving to an enhanced, digital-only format in 2026!
This new format will contain all the same content you love about The Therapist print magazine, plus easier access to CE credits, live links that lead to up-to-date legislative and licensing news, and lots of other great new features.
Best of all, this change will save more than twelve million pages of magazine paper each year! That’s a win for both the environment and for our members. By going digital, we can redirect those resources toward what matters most: stronger advocacy, expanded member programs, and more free professional development webinars. Check out our Magazine Makeover webpage to find out more!
.HELP US BUILD A NEW RESOURCE HUB!
CAMFT is excited to announce the building of a new digital Resource Hub complete with helpful products and services at special CAMFT prices: a one-stop shop just for you, our members!
Before we launch, we want to hear from you! What tools, services, and resources would make your professional life easier and your business run more smoothly? Please take a few minutes to fill out this brief survey and your feedback will directly shape how we build the Resource Hub. Thanks in advance!
GO GREEN TO RECEIVE YOUR BALLOT ELECTRONICALLY
Our annual Board of Directors election is just around the corner! If you’d like to receive your ballot electronically instead of in the mail, (and receive membership communications like the Annual Business Meeting notice by email instead of paper postcard) you can learn how to Go Green here.
DONATE TO THE CAMFT POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE
CAMFT has an aggressive legislative advocacy effort in Sacramento and in Washington, D.C., but no amount of advocacy or lobbying can be effective without legislators who understand our issues.
In order for us to protect, enhance, and move our profession forward, we need your help! By combining your contribution with thousands of other members, CAMFT’s state and federal PACs can actively support candidates who make our issues a priority. Please donate today!
NEVER MISS A LEARNING OPPORTUNITY: YOUR 24/7 ACCESS TO PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
CAMFT members have 24/7 access to an On-Demand Learning Library featuring recorded webinars that make professional development convenient and flexible, allowing you to learn on your own schedule, whether early morning, late evening, or on weekends without missing opportunities due to client appointments or personal commitments. California LMFTs (and LCSWs, LPCCs, and LEPs) can fulfill their complete continuing education requirements through this BBS-recognized online platform, while pre-licensed members and associates can earn hours of experience toward licensure with supervisor approval.
This comprehensive library transforms CE requirements from a scheduling challenge into an accessible resource that adapts to your life and career stage, with detailed course descriptions covering requirements, topics, objectives, and timeframes to keep you in control of your professional growth. Log in to your CAMFT member portal to start exploring.
Interested in something recent from CAMFT? Check out these webinars:
Law and Ethics Working with Minor Clients: Prepare for Success and Avoid the Pitfalls What You DON'T Know About Insurance and Documentation- But Should Law & Ethics Mastering Mandated Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporting Law and Ethics: Child Abuse and Neglect Marketing 101: A Guided Tour through CAMFT's Member Marketing Toolkit
WEBINAR RECORDING NOW AVAILABLE: MARKETING TOOLKIT 101: A GUIDED TOUR THROUGH CAMFT’S MEMBER MARKETING TOOLKIT
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our recent membership exclusive webinar, Marketing Toolkit 101! Whether you came for the full session or just popped in for part of it, we’re so grateful you were there.
The conversation touched on how to build your brand, create your web presence, and effectively promote your business as an LMFT, and we heard from some incredible voices in the field (shoutout to EMC Communications for leading us through this toolkit).
If you couldn’t make it (or want to revisit the discussion), the full recording is now available to watch at your convenience.
You can now access the recording following this link: Recording: Marketing 101: A Guided Tour through CAMFT's Member Marketing Toolkit | CAMFT Please use your CAMFT login and password to access the recording.
Hoping to just view the presentation slides? Click here to view the handout: Marketing 101: A Guided Tour through CAMFT's Member Marketing Toolkit | CAMFT
We hope it sparks reflection, conversation, and maybe even a little inspiration. Keep an eye out for more CAMFT member exclusive events like this!
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MFT JOURNEY WITH CAMFT MEMBERSHIP
Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your practice, CAMFT membership is here to support every stage of your journey as a marriage and family therapist.
As a member, you’ll gain access to a wide range of valuable benefits, including:
With CAMFT, you get the tools, resources, community, and 60+ years of experience in California that you need to thrive in your career and the support that you're not doing it alone.
Join CAMFT Today and take the next step with confidence.
November 14, 2025 9:00 am-12:00 pm (3CEs)
California’s Medi-Cal system is complex and ever-changing. During this three-hour presentation, CAMFT Staff Attorney, Sara Jasper, will provide an overview of the Medi-Cal Behavioral Health system, including information about CalAIM and BH-Connect. Ms. Jasper will review Medi-Cal’s requirements for telehealth services, provider addresses and how providers who offer “remote-only” services can apply for an exemption from Medi-Cal’s place of business requirements. Ms. Jasper will offer practice tips and resources Medi-Cal providers may use to strengthen their recordkeeping practices in anticipation of audits. Finally, Ms. Jasper will offer general resources to support providers as they navigate the Medi-Cal system, including resources for those providing care to dual eligible patients and caregivers.
Learn more and register now!
Can’t attend live? Register to get access to the recording and watch at your convenience.
Friday, December 5, 2025 9:00 am PST (3CEs)
In this workshop, CAMFT Staff Attorney, Alain Montgomery, JD will explain the new laws that will take effect in 2026 that impact the practice of psychotherapy in California. This workshop will provide participants with an understanding of the changes to current laws and the new laws on a state and federal level. Participants will obtain insight into relevant and applicable legal, ethical, and business considerations.
CAMFT Annual Conference registration is now open! Take advantage of the Early Bird Discount before January 31, 2026 and secure your spot at the CAMFT 2026 Annual Conference. Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to save while joining us for an inspiring and engaging event!
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE PRE-LICENSED VIRTUAL SUMMIT!
Pre-licensees – this one’s for you! Join us for our annual Virtual Pre-Licensed Summit on Wednesday, December 3rd, where we’ll bring together expert presenters, insider advice, and real-world tools to help you move confidently toward licensure.
Whether you’re a student, an associate, or somewhere in between, this event is your chance to connect, learn, and gain clarity about what’s ahead.
See the agenda and register right here. It’s FREE for CAMFT members!
CAMFT has 23 chapters throughout the state that offer local programs and networking opportunities for MFTs. You can find your local chapter here. Be sure to ask how they support pre-licensees!
Use your membership login and password to get access to this directory that showcases job sites throughout California that pay Associate Marriage and Family Therapists and provide supervision for hours. Login to view.
Check out the directory of CAMFT Certified Supervisors! Our CAMFT Certified Supervisors have gone above and beyond the BBS requirements for supervision to complete the advanced training. Find a CAMFT Certified Supervisor.
CHAPTERS SHINE AT THE 2025 FALL SYMPOSIUM
Four CAMFT Chapters proudly hosted tables at this year’s Fall Symposium, held on October 17 at the Marriott Long Beach Downtown.
The East Bay, Inland Empire, Long Beach–South Bay, and Orange County Chapters were represented by dedicated board members serving in a variety of leadership roles, including President, Past President, Treasurer, Membership Director, Pre-Licensed Director, and Sponsorship Director.
Chapter hosts welcomed attendees with brochures, community resources, and fun giveaways. They shared information about local dining and entertainment, upcoming chapter events, and the essential role Chapters play in supporting members both locally and statewide.
Hosting chapter tables proved to be a wonderful success—it gave members the opportunity to see how they can get more involved with CAMFT at the local level while also contributing to statewide advocacy efforts. The event fostered a strong sense of connection and community in a profession that can sometimes feel isolating, especially for those in private practice.
Thank you to our Chapters for creating such a warm, welcoming space for members and guests at the Fall Symposium!
CAMFT'S ATTORNEYS PRESENT AT THE ORANGE COUNTY AND SOUTHWEST RIVERSIDE CHAPTERS
CAMFT Staff Attorney Bradley Muldrow, Esq., presented the 6-hour L&E course, “Reducing Liability Risks in a Complex Clinical World,” to 50 members of the Orange County Chapter on Saturday, October 25, 2025. The event was held at the Chicago School Anaheim Campus, offering a modern and comfortable setting for an enriching day of learning.
Attendees were highly engaged throughout the workshop, especially enjoying the practical vignettes and real-world examples woven into the presentation. Brad also took time to answer questions during the session, over lunch, and even after the program concluded, making the day both informative and interactive.
The Southwest Riverside County Chapter held its 6-hour Law & Ethics (L&E) presentation at the beautiful Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards in Temecula. CAMFT Staff Attorney Sara Jasper, Esq., led the session, covering critical topics including BBS Complaints, Dangerous Patients, and Medicare.
The event offered members a unique blend of professional development and community connection in a serene vineyard setting. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to learn from real-world examples and case discussions, while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
ANOTHER BENEFIT FOR CHAPTER MEMBERS
CAMFT is offering chapter members a $5 discount on the 2025 Law and Ethics webinars. Take advantage of the discount and join our expert staff attorneys as they cover the essential topics MFTs need to know! Learn more.
CONSIDER JOINING A CHAPTER
CAMFT chapters offer exciting events in your local area that can enrich your practice with relevant continuing education workshops and networking opportunities. Click here to find your local chapter.
CAMFT MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL CHAPTER EVENTS ACROSS THE STATE
Don’t forget to click here throughout the year for a list of upcoming events throughout the State. Events are listed by Chapter/Region.
WELCOME NEW CEPA PROVIDERS
IT'S EASY TO BECOME A CAMFT-APPROVED PROVIDER Have you ever thought about sharing your knowledge and skill while supplementing your income? Now is the perfect time to become a CAMFT-Approved Continuing Education Provider! APPLY TODAY!
Apply before 11/30/25 and use the code CEPACHEER when calling in your payment to get 25% off the Initial Application Fee. Get the details.
WELCOME TO OUR NEW CAMFT CERTIFIED SUPERVISORS
WAYS TO ENHANCE YOUR STATUS AS A CAMFT CERTIFIED SUPERVISOR!
Certified Supervisor Logo
The Certified Supervisor Program now has a logo! You can use this brand-new logo on your professional advertising and informational materials including business cards, letterhead, brochures, and website. To use the logo, please download this form by clicking here, sign and send it to csp@camft.org.
Add Your Photo
The Directory of CAMFT Certified Supervisors now comes with your picture! When Supervisees are looking for a Supervisor, we recommend they reach out to a CAMFT Certified Supervisor and direct them to this Directory. If you’d like to add your photo to your record, simply Log-In to your Dashboard, and click on the area for your photo, and upload your headshot! This is a GREAT way to personalize your listing!
LET CERTIFIED SUPERVISOR CANDIDATES KNOW THAT YOU ARE WILLING TO BE A CONSULTANT
The Directory lets those interested in becoming a Certified Supervisor know who is willing to be a consultant.
It’s easy! Simply log in and navigate to the area under Certified Supervisor Program. Click on “Willing to be a Consultant for a Certified Supervisor Applicant.” Candidates can sort the list by those who are willing, so it may increase your visibility!
NEW RESOURCE AVAILABLE FOR THE CAMFT CERTIFIED SUPERVISOR PROGRAM!
To better serve you and maintain the CAMFT Certified Supervisor Program’s (CSP) Creed to go “Above and Beyond,” the CSP Committee is now using a set of questions to review the topics and score the Case Summary.
For a helpful cheat sheet to guide your Case Summary writing, CLICK HERE.
Please remember that Consultants must review and approve the Case Summary before the Verification of Completion application goes to the Committee.
We are thrilled to introduce five NEW Supervision Workshops, totaling 12 CEs! Discover them all in our On-Demand Learning Library.
Don’t forget that the BBS requires supervisors to complete a minimum of six (6) hours of continuing professional development in supervision during each renewal period.
*Reminder: Supervisors may apply their CAMFT supervisor course training hours to their overall CE requirements with one exception. A course taken on law and ethics designed specifically to meet supervisor training requirements CANNOT also be accepted toward meeting the six-hour law and ethics course required of all licensees each renewal period. A single course will not fulfill both requirements.
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