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Email : infocenter@camft.org
Phone : (858) 292-2638
Dear Members,
March has arrived, bringing longer days and the first signs of a new season. This time of transition often brings renewed energy to our community, and I’m excited to share some important updates with you.
First, I want to highlight the significant progress we have witnessed towards license portability. On the national level, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy has continued onto Phase III of their portability advocacy for MFTs. On the state level, the Board of Behavioral Sciences continues to move toward implementing the national exam. California is now entering the regulatory phase, and the national exam is on track to become the required clinical exam anticipated between January and July, 2027. You can read more about this possible transition on our new FAQ page. I want to thank all our members who have given their input, asked questions and engaged in advocacy efforts to help move this forward.
By now you should have received your ballots for the election. Remember, this year we’re voting on several open Board Positions, alongside new proposed CAMFT Bylaws. Voting closes on March 12, so be sure to read our candidate statements and review our revisions to the Bylaws so you can vote with confidence.
I am also looking forward to this year’s Annual Conference, now just weeks away. This year, we’ll be gathering in San Diego on May 1-2. You’ll have the incredible opportunity to earn over 20 CE credits by attending workshops about everything from clinical topics like addiction, trauma recovery, and rethinking grief, as well as therapist-centric sessions on burnout prevention, and navigating the unique stressors faced by therapists of color. Find the full agenda right here, and then be sure to register soon to secure your spot.
If you’re looking for other meaningful ways to get involved with CAMFT, I invite you to consider serving on a committee this year. With 19 committees to choose from, it’s a great opportunity to grow your leadership skills, connect with other members, and help guide our organization’s future. Best of all, most committee meetings are virtual, making it a flexible commitment for your busy schedule. Check out the list of CAMFT committees that need your service here, and be sure to apply by the deadline of April 15. I hope to see your name as an applicant!
With care, Joy Alafia, MBA, CAE Executive Director
IN THIS NEWSLETTER YOU WILL FIND:
The Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) has entered the regulatory phase of transitioning to the AMFTRB National Exam as the clinical licensure exam for California.
A proposed regulation package is expected to be filed with the Office of Administrative Law this month. If approved, the AMFTRB National Exam would become the required clinical exam anticipated between January and July, 2027.
CAMFT is actively engaged in the process. We have developed a new member resource, MFT License Portability: National Exam FAQs, to help you navigate this change. We’ve also partnered with BBS staff and AMFTRB to ensure accurate and up-to-date information. We’ll continue to update you as new details become available.
It might be time to renew your Medicare opt-out status! If you opted out of Medicare in 2024, you’ll be approaching your first opt-out renewal period in 2026. The opt-out auto-renewal cycle occurs every two years.
If you wish to remain opted out of Medicare, you do not need to take any action. If you’ve changed your mind and wish to enroll as Medicare providers, you must notify your Medicare Administrative Contractor by letter no later than 30 days before the opt-out auto renewal would occur. If you live and work in California, you’ll contact California’s MAC, Noridian Healthcare Solutions. You should begin the Medicare provider enrollment process within that 30-day timeframe as well.
If you’re uncertain about your opt-out status, visit the Center for Medicare and Medicaid’s Provider Opt-Out Affidavit Look-Up Tool to determine your opt-out renewal date. For more information about MFTs and Medicare, visit the Medicare Corner on CAMFT's website.
If you are a licensed provider who has not yet decided what relationship you’ll have with Medicare, review this flow chart.
Following recent legal and regulatory changes, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' HIPAA Privacy Rule Final Rule to Support Reproductive Health Care Privacy, we have updated our sample notice of privacy practices documents.
The new sample notices include: 1) required updates for providers and settings under HIPAA that create, receive, and/or maintain substance use disorder treatment records regulated by 42 CFR part 2; and 2) required updates for ALL California providers and settings under HIPAA regarding recent California laws that have strengthened privacy protections pertaining to patient information and records.
CAMFT members can find these updated sample notice of privacy practices documents in the "Private Practice Starter Forms" section of CAMFT's Sample Practice Forms page.
CAMFT’s Political Action Committee (PAC) plays a critical role in advancing the interests of Marriage and Family Therapists at every level of government. The PAC supports candidates who align with MFT priorities, strengthens professional representation from local districts to Capitol Hill, and ensures our profession maintains a strong and effective political voice.
Our 2026 goal, 100 by 10,000, aims to raise $100,000 while engaging 10,000 contributing members.
Learn how PAC contributions were utilized in our 2025 Full-Year PAC Update: 2025 PAC Update.
Help us move the profession forward. Donate today!
We recently led a grassroots advocacy campaign in support of H.R. 658, federal legislation forwarded by CAMFT and AAMFT to remove barriers preventing LMFTs within the Veterans Health Administration from advancing into clinical supervisory roles. The bill addresses inequitable requirements that limit career advancement, recruitment, and retention of LMFTs in the VA system.
H.R. 658 has passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now moves to the Senate. We have initiated Senate outreach and are engaging key committee offices as next steps are determined. Stay tuned, as additional grassroots advocacy may be pursued as the strategy develops.
The Board of Behavioral Sciences will utilize the revised CAMFT Code of Ethics as one of the reference materials for its California MFT Law & Ethics Exam and the California MFT Clinical Exam as of April 1, 2026.
The CAMFT Board of Directors recently approved revisions to the CAMFT Code of Ethics, specifically addressing the use of technology, telehealth, and artificial intelligence. Members are encouraged to review the changes in the revised CAMFT Code of Ethics to ensure compliance and stay informed on current ethical standards, as well as the BBS Statutes and Regulations book when studying for the exams.
The Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) is offering an exciting new scholarship opportunity for individuals who are pursuing behavioral health degrees and are willing to commit to serving Medi-Cal members for 2-4 years in an eligible Medi-Cal safety net setting. This Medi-Cal Behavioral Health Scholarship Program offers up to $240,000 in educational scholarships. The application cycle closes March 16, 2026.
To see a list of all state and federal financial assistance programs we’re keeping an eye on, you can visit this page.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) invites mental health providers to learn about Reduce the Risk, a statewide education and outreach campaign that provides information on legal tools related to firearm risk.
The campaign explains the types of protection orders available under state law that provide safeguards and allow courts to temporarily remove firearms and ammunition from an individual in distress. MFTs who are interested in learning more can access trainings, resources, and additional information on the campaign’s website.
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) published an implementation plan in response to Medi-Cal changes under H.R. 1. The plan outlines the new federal eligibility and enrollment changes as well as California’s strategy for updating its Medi-Cal policies and programs. Members are encouraged to review the changes in the implementation plan to understand the impacts of the federal law on Medi-Cal members.
We at CAMFT encourage all members to attend BBS Board and Committee meetings, either in person or virtually, to better understand upcoming changes to your licensure path, supervision requirements, workforce development, etc. Click here to see upcoming meetings in 2026.
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.
We’re calling on dedicated individuals like you to help shape the future of CAMFT. With nearly 20 committees to choose from—ranging from the Political Action Committee to the Pre-Licensed Committee—there’s a place for everyone to make an impact, regardless of your skillset or availability.
Click here to learn more about all our open committees. Applications are due by April 15, 2026. Don’t miss this opportunity to get involved!
Our Nominating Committee has chosen the slate of candidates to run for the Board of Directors. Click here to view the candidates and read their statements.
If you weren't able to attend the latest CAMFT State of the Profession, now is the time to catch up with insights that directly affects your profession.
CAMFT Executive Director Joy Alafia, CAE, led a one-hour (1 CE) presentation designed specifically for mental health professionals, walking members through the most pressing issues, legislation, and internal association processes impacting CAMFT members right now.
The best part? It's free for members!
This briefing is available to CAMFT members at no cost, one of the many benefits your membership provides. Whether you missed the live session or want to revisit the content, the recording is ready for you. Not a CAMFT member? You can still watch the State of the Profession at the nonmember rate of $35 on our On-Demand Library: State of the Profession | CAMFT.
Log in to your CAMFT member account to watch the recording today.
We're 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. Your feedback will directly shape how we build the Resource Hub!
Over the past year, the CAMFT Bylaws Committee has been hard at work carefully reviewing and revising the CAMFT Bylaws to ensure they continue to support the organization’s mission, governance, and members.
This year, clinical members will vote on the proposed Bylaws updates as well as participate in the CAMFT Board of Directors election. Thank you for helping shape CAMFT’s future through your participation.
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ACCOUNTABILITY REMAINS HUMAN: CAMFT'S ETHICS STANDARDS FOR TELEHEALTH, TECHNOLOGY, AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
April 10, 2026 9 am – 12 pm PST
This presentation walks through the approved updates to Section 6 of the CAMFT Code of Ethics, which addresses Telehealth, Technology, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). It explains what the changes mean in practice and how they guide therapists in responsibly using digital tools and AI across clinical work, supervision, documentation, practice management, education, and public-facing activities. The presentation also highlights how the revisions ensure that technological innovation does not diminish therapist accountability, reinforce the importance of professional judgment, and establish clear ethical guardrails for competence, informed consent, confidentiality, disclosures, and legal compliance. Collectively, these updates provide a forward-looking yet grounded ethical framework that supports responsible adoption of emerging technologies while safeguarding client welfare and the integrity of the profession.
Learn more and register today!
Can’t attend live? Register to get access to the recording and watch at your convenience.
The countdown is on! With two months until CAMFT’s Annual Conference, we are excited to announce our amazing lineup of speakers. From Ellyn Bader discussing the topic of infidelity to Adi Jaffee discussing the topic of addiction, we have valuable insights for everyone to institute in your work.
Our opening keynote will be a session not to miss. Dr. Mike Dow, PsyD., is a New York Times bestselling author and has written eight books: Diet Rehab, The Brain Fog Fix, Healing the Broken Brain, Heal Your Drained Brain, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think, Act and Be Happy, Your Subconscious Brain Can Change Your Life, The Sugar Brain Fix and The Ketamine Breakthrough. His books have been translated into many languages in Europe, Asia and South America, and he has traveled the world to offer workshops based on his books.
CAMFT's 2026 Annual Conference is happening on May 1 - 2, 2026 in sunny San Diego, CA at the Town and Country Resort. This year’s conference offers an excellent opportunity to earn up to 21 CEUs. Let us know who you are most excited to see!
Be sure to visit the Pre-Licensed Corner of our website for up-to-date newsletters, guides, resources, and so much more – created just for you.
We’re excited to share the March 2026 Edition of the Pre-Licensed Newsletter, written and compiled from our Pre-Licensed Committee. This edition focuses on articles about self care and burnout, and includes suggestions for career paths with an MFT degree. Check it out now!
CAMFT has 24 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.
CAMFT members are invited to explore the in-person events offered by Chapters across the state.
The San Diego Chapter scheduled it's Psych Hike/Walk Group for March 8. This group typically meets the first Sunday of every month at varying locations to enjoy beautiful views and a chance to connect with their peers.
The Long Beach-South Bay Chapter’s Walk and Connect networking event will take place on March 14.
The Sacramento Valley Chapter’s 3,000 Club Prelicensed Support Group is scheduled for March 12. The San Gabriel Valley Chapter has scheduled its 3,000 Club March Coffee Date for March 15.
The San Gabriel Valley is offering Curious Clinician (Pasadena) - Special Interest Group (SIG) - Confronting Clients on March 15 and Dream Circle March 2026 - Special Interest Group (SIG) on March 21.
To foster professional networking, inspire creative approaches to therapy, and strengthen their local community, the Santa Cruz County Chapter scheduled “Spring Into Connection: Expressive Arts Exchange” for March 14.
The 2-hour (2 CE) presentation “Shame: Putting It All Together—Essential Insights for Healing and Thriving” is presented by the Santa Cruz County Chapter on March 20, and the Central Coast Chapter on April 18.
On April 25, the East Bay Chapter is offering Neuroscience, Mindfulness, and Movement (2 CEs) in Lafayette, CA. The workshop will offer practical, accessible tools to help regulate the nervous system through gentle movement, guided breathing, and approachable meditation practices.
For more Chapter in-person and virtual events, click here.
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.
.USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN CREATING CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES
The CEPA Committee has approved adding language to the Acknowledgement and Agreement page regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in creating continuing education courses.
The added language states that CAMFT-Approved CE Providers acknowledge that the majority of their courses' content is based on professional personal experience, and if AI tools were used, those tools were supplemental to the creation of course content. They also acknowledge that appropriate citations were used, especially if the bulk of the AI "generated" material on a topic is primarily sourced from, or overly similar to, material from another CE provider or similar entity. Finally, Providers will have to acknowledge that if they used AI in preparing courses, that they, and no one else, are responsible for the accuracy of the material, especially in regard to legal updates in the field.
The CEPA Committee has approved that self-attestation is an acceptable form of recording a participant's record of attendance. An example of self-attestation would be a box on the evaluation that states, “By checking this box, I attest that I attended (name of workshop) on (date).”
If you have any questions or concerns, please email CEPA@camft.org.
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 3/31/26 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
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 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.
Hey, supervisors! Did you know that you can watch FIVE workshops, totaling 12 CEs, right in our On-Demand Learning Library? Here's what we have in store.
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.
CAMFT has partnered with Delta Dental to offer comprehensive dental coverage at competitive rates.
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