In 2019, a California Labor Commissioner’s ruling concluded that agencies who employ post-degree volunteer interns should understand the laws and regulations that determine whether post-degree interns should be paid. CAMFT regularly receives calls from members regarding the classification/compensation of Registered Associate MFTs. We recommend agencies and employers of pre-licensees visit CAMFT’s website for further reading on the relevant laws and recommendations regarding hiring/paying pre-licensed MFTs for their services as volunteers and/or employees.  Click here for California Labor Laws that Affect MFT Pre-Licensees and Employers.

As with every legal issue that arises, every case is different and the specific facts surrounding the case are important. CAMFT recognizes that each employer is unique in its organization, funding, and day-to-day operation. For this reason, we recommend any employer or agency hiring post-degree volunteer associates to review their specific situation with an attorney who has expertise with labor and employment issues.

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