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Email : infocenter@camft.org
Phone : (858) 292-2638
Dear Members,
I hope you were able to join me for last week’s State of the Profession presentation! It was a pleasure to share so many encouraging updates on our strategic plan and the progress we’re making together. We were also joined by the Executive Officer from the BBS, Steve Sodergren, who offered a valuable big-picture perspective; and our State Government Affairs Associate Shanti Ezrine, who shared important updates on CAMFT’s advocacy efforts. If you missed it, not to worry – you can watch the recording right here.
Even as we’ve made progress on the bigger picture, we’ve also been hard at work planning our signature annual events. The Fall Symposium is coming up fast on October 17th, and yes – there is still time to register! This year’s event will take place in Long Beach, and will feature practical discussions around using AI in a mental health setting. As always, you’ll have plenty of time to build your network and to walk the exhibit hall.
We are thrilled to offer our pre-licensed members an event geared just for them! Our Pre-Licensed Virtual Summit has been set for December 3rd . we'll have more information ready for you soon.
On the horizon, we’re also planning our next Advocacy Day for March 18th, 2026. Mark your calendars now for this unique experience that provides you with an opportunity to educate legislators on the important work done by MFTs!
Whether or not you plan on attending our upcoming events, I invite members to learn more and consider applying to join our Board of Directors starting in 2026. This year open positions include the role of CAMFT’s President-Elect, CFO, and three Clinical Directors-at-Large. The deadline for applications is coming up quickly on October 27th, so be sure to read about eligibility, time commitments, and how to apply here.
Finally, our pre-licensees and grad school students might be interested to know that we offer several scholarships totaling more than $20,000 to support the journeys of outstanding candidates. Explore our list of available scholarships here, and be sure to apply (or nominate someone!) by November 7.
This October, I hope you find both inspiration in your work and moments of rest in the crisp fall season ahead. I’m grateful to have you as part of our community.
With care, Joy Alafia, MBA, CAE Executive Director
IN THIS NEWSLETTER YOU WILL FIND:
Tomorrow, the Supreme Court will hear Chiles v. Salazar, a case assessing the constitutionality of a Colorado law that bans conversion therapy for minors by licensed mental health professionals.
Here at CAMFT, we stand firmly with the APA and other leading health organizations: concluding that sexual orientation and gender identity change efforts (SOGICE) does not meet the standards of legitimate therapeutic treatment and is ineffective at changing sexual orientation or gender identity and can cause significant harm.
As an organization, we believe therapy must always prioritize science, ethics, and client safety, and to avoid any practices that undermine identity and well-being. You can read the full amicus brief here.
The Board of Behavioral Science’s (BBS) sponsored legislation Senate Bill (SB) 775, which includes the amendment that would give the BBS the option to adopt the Association of Marital and Family Therapy Regulatory Board (AMFTRB) national exam via regulations, is enrolled and awaiting signature from the Governor.
Last month, the BBS directed its staff to initiate rulemaking to accept the AMFTRB national exam as the clinical exam for MFTs in California. The proposed regulatory amendments will start to move forward as a rulemaking package, and it is anticipated to complete the rulemaking process in May 2026. At the earliest, the transition to the AMFTRB national exam will become effective January 2027 – or after, depending on the progress of key implementation activities.
The BBS has identified several key implementation activities and we are working in close collaboration with BBS staff and AMFTRB exam administrators to ensure a smooth transition to the national exam for California applicants. At the November BBS Board meeting, AMFTRB exam administrators will meet with the BBS in a closed session to address questions of the Board.
DON’T MISS OUT ON THESE ORGANIZATIONAL GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
There are several grants for behavioral health entities still available:
To see a list of all state and federal financial assistance programs we’re keeping an eye on, you can visit this page.
QUICK TIPS ON HOW TO FIND COUNTY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Counties and regional partnerships across California may offer stipend and loan repayment programs for graduate students and associates training and working in mental health and behavioral health programs. While these local programs can be tricky to track down, here are some tips and practical ways to help you find them:
Mark your calendars! We are excited to announce that CAMFT’s Advocacy Day will be held on March 18, 2026, in Sacramento. This is an amazing opportunity for our members to come together, engage with our state legislators and advocate for the issues that impact the MFT community.
We look forward to seeing you for a day of impactful conversations and networking. Stay tuned for more details!
The Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) has released a Notice of Proposed Action to reduce fees for renewals, applications, initial license issuance, and several examinations (law and ethics, LMFT clinical, and LEP written) to 50% of the current established fee. These reduced fees would be in effect from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2030.
The BBS is accepting written comments on this proposal until November 3, 2025. Details on the proposed changes and instructions for submitting comments are available here.
To support our members as federal actions are being released and implemented, we’ve launched the Federal Action Impact Landing Page — a centralized resource offering up-to-date information on these developments. The page also invites members to share how these federal actions may be affecting their practice, clients, or ethical and professional obligations.
CAMFT remains dedicated to promoting mental health, relational well-being, and emotional safety, especially in moments of fear and instability. We recognize the pain, anxiety, and trauma many communities are experiencing in the wake of recent events that are a result of administrative orders or directives.
CAMFT encourages all members to attend BBS Board and Committee meetings to better understand upcoming changes to your licensure path, supervision requirements, workforce development, etc. Virtual attendance is also an option. To see upcoming meetings in 2025, 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 newsletters, licensing, examination, renewal, regulation/legislation, agenda notices, materials, and minutes, etc. To subscribe, please click here.
CAMFT’S Board of Directors convened on September 12-14, 2025 in Santa Barbara to discuss CAMFT’s 2025-2027 Strategic Plan, finances, and additional business for the association. Read the full Board Highlights here.
It’s time to mark your calendars and save the date for CAMFT's next Annual Conference! We’re planning another exciting event where you can sharpen your skills, explore fresh ideas, and seize new opportunities for growth and innovation. We will see you at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, CA on May 1 – 2, 2026!
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!
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.
We are pleased to recognize this year’s Scholarship and Grant Recipients and Honors and Award Winners and Runners-Up — a group of outstanding individuals who embody service, leadership, and dedication to the field of marriage and family therapy.
Learn more about their inspiring journeys and accomplishments here.
Applications for our 2026 scholarships and awards are now open! Learn more about our scholarships and grant here. Don’t forget, you can only apply for one!
The Education Foundation Scholarship ($4,000): This is our original scholarship! CAMFT launched this foundation in 1977 to support the marriage and family therapy profession through financial assistance and research.
The Scott Hamilton and Frank Galassi Scholarship ($4,000): This special scholarship honors the legacy of Frank Galassi, a marriage and family therapist known for his work as an LGBTQ+ rights activist, and his partner, Scott Hamilton. This scholarship reflects Frank’s lifelong dedication to equity, healing, and uplifting LGBTQ+ lives, and continues to support MFTs in training who share his passion for advocacy, inclusion, and mental health care.
The Clinton E. Phillips Scholarship ($4,000): This scholarship honors Dr. Phillips, who pioneered the application of family systems theory. He co-founded a graduate program that was later renamed Phillips Graduate University in his honor. Since its inception, the university’s Counseling Center has helped thousands of families.
The Gerry Grossman Scholarship ($4,000): This scholarship honors Gerry Grossman, LMFT, who has dedicated his career to working with young children and their families. Over the last 30 years, he has conducted Emotional Enrichment programs with preschoolers, helping them identify their emotions through the use of songs, books, puzzles, drawing, and games.
The Ronald D. Lunceford Scholarship ($4,000): Ronald D. Lunceford was the first African-American to serve as CAMFT president, and was a trailblazer in the field of marriage and family therapy. He was a strong advocate for ethnic minority communities, and had a deep commitment to gerontology, human relations, and political action. He also founded a counseling center, held many leadership roles, and authored several books.
The Educational Foundation Grant ($2,500): This grant is designed to provide financial assistance to MFTs engaging in a project or activity which will enhance the knowledge, skills and abilities of members of the profession. This can include a training event, a collaborate event with a university, a research project. We encourage you to collaborate with other entities and sources of funding, so that this grant funding can be used to leverage other grants.
You can read more about each of our scholarships and grant here. Don’t forget, you can only apply for one!
Be sure to apply before the deadline of November 7, 2025!
Long Beach, CA October 17, 2025 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (6.5 CEs)
Join us as we explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and psychotherapy. CAMFT's Fall Symposium brings together leading voices in psychotherapy, ethics, and law to give you the insights you need to navigate this evolving landscape with confidence.
Whether you’re simply curious or already experimenting with AI in your practice, you’ll gain new perspectives, practical takeaways, and the confidence to navigate what’s next in mental health care.
This year’s event will feature:
Choose your experience:
Click here to learn more and register!
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.
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE PRE-LICENSED VIRTUAL SUMMIT!
We’re excited to announce that our annual Pre-Licensed Summit will take place on December 3, 2025! More details coming soon.
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.
THE ORANGE COUNTY CHAPTER – CHANGING WITH THE TIMES
By Jodie Shea, President
Over the past few years, the Orange County chapter has gone through many changes. From new board members to new events, we have attempted to survey the current needs of therapists in our area and to continually offer something of value. We would love to share with you some of what we discovered and where we may be heading next.
Orange County (OC) tends to be known for its beaches, wealth, and tourism. When people think of the OC, they imagine a certain luxurious lifestyle that, while something of awe and does exist here, is often only a portion of the therapists and populations we serve. One of the ways that we shifted to embrace this over the past few years was by seeking more diverse board members, speakers/topics, and events. Examples include creating a diversity director board position, maintaining CE events on working with diverse populations, increasing discussions about taboo topics such as sex therapy or ethical non-monogamy, celebrating diversity and heritage months, and adding accommodations at events for those of different physical and mental abilities. This has not always been easy, as change often invites resistance, but we are rooted in our beliefs in respect for all. Overall have seen positive feedback and a more diverse community on our board and at our events.
Another large change has been shifting from monthly CE events at a local restaurant to more of a quarterly schedule. Most people these days are just trying to survive and finding the time to come to an event, socialize, and reschedule clients can feel overwhelming. Although we attempt to be mindful of board member bandwidth, we have been more aware of the privilege needed to attend our events, which normally take place on a Friday morning or afternoon. There also seems to be more of a longing for connection in today’s world, and this, at times, was lacking when we often combined socializing or networking with a CE event. One of our long-time board members, Terry Heptinstall, has been organizing a monthly licensed clinician social event for years, and the attendance of these has increased and remained stable throughout 2025. In addition to maintaining this event, we began to offer CE hybrid events at a donated location to reduce price and be able to offer recordings of the presentation, an extended webinar to add more depth of training and also recorded, and also a freeform social event at a café. These events are run quarterly and have been highly successful; therefore, we plan to continue this next year.
We are continuing to keep in mind the high cost of living in Orange County while also acknowledging the value of in-person connection. Changing venue and food offerings to more affordable options has allowed us to continue to offer great events while making them more accessible. Our chapter offers highly discounted rates to events for Pre-Licensed and members, and is considering changing to an all-inclusive membership in 2027 to increase buy-in from members. Other affordable events we will attempt to reinstate in 2026, or in the near future, are hikes for informal connection, longer trainings or retreats, and small group events, such as a book club, clinical focus group, or consultation group.
Change is inevitable and can feel both draining and energizing. The Orange County chapter has been making an intentional effort to stay rooted in our values while adapting to the changing needs of the therapists and populations in our area. We hope that sharing some of our process will inspire you, as some of you have also inspired us!
CAMFT'S ATTORNEY PRESENT AT THE REDDING REGIONAL CHAPTER
CAMFT staff attorney Luke Martin, Esq., presented “How to Avoid Being Sued! - Staying Out of Legal Trouble with Client, Employees, and 3rd Party Organizations” to the Redding Regional Chapter members on Friday, September 26. The 6-hour presentation, which included a catered lunch, took place at the beautiful McConnell Foundation.
Marguerite (Meg) Ferrell, President, commented on the great turnout and how well Luke’s presentation was received. The Chapter presented Luke with an award in appreciation of his Law and Ethics education of the 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.
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.
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 10/31/2025 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
Tammy Cabral
Cyreel Pablo
Cory Candelas
Amanda Najera
Kamisha Ford
Kathleen Shanahan
NEW UPDATES TO THE CAMFT CERTIFIED SUPERVISOR PROGRAM!
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.
Supervision, How to Make it a Treat and Not a Trick (2 CEs)
Challenges in Supervision (2 CEs)
Relationship-Based Supervision Through the Lens of Attachment (2.5 CEs)
Guidance for Supervisors (2.5 CEs)
Taking the Supervisory Relationship to the Next Level: Clinical Supervision in the Changing World (3 CEs)
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.
DISPLAY AD ORDERS FOR THE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 EDITION EDITION OF THE THERAPIST Place your display ad order by November 15, 2025. More Information.
Now that we have your attention, let’s talk about your future. The CAMFT Educational Foundation gives away $22,500 every year by offering five scholarships and one grant to deserving candidates. Each scholarship award is in the amount of $4,000, and the grant award is $2,500.
The Online Application for each Scholarship and Grant makes it SUPER EASY to apply! To apply for one of these opportunities—or to nominate someone else— click here.
(*Must apply for a Scholarship or Grant)
Each year CAMFT is thrilled to recognize the fantastic accomplishments of our members and others in the industry. Four honors will be awarded to distinguished CAMFT members, school, or agency that have contributed in a significant way to the body of literature or research informing the profession of marriage and family therapy or have engaged in projects or committed to a mission that has enhanced the quality and reputation of the profession.
Nominations are now being accepted for the following:
Nominate your exceptional colleague, school, or agency for their extraordinary achievements!
The Online Application for each Honor and Award makes it SUPER EASY to apply! To apply for one of these opportunities—or to nominate someone else—click here.
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