Miller introduces bill to update counseling practices

A plan to update and clarify counseling practices under Michigan law was approved Tuesday by the Michigan House. The law has not been updated since it was enacted in 1988.

State Rep. Aaron Miller, who introduced the plan, said updates are needed because the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs has proposed a rule that strikes the majority of the rules for the practice of counselors – most notably counselors’ ability to diagnose mental illnesses.

Because of this potential elimination, many counselors will not be able to practice should the proposed rules be adopted.

The most notable update to current law will clarify the current counseling techniques to include psychotherapy and diagnosis. Additionally, statute will be updated to reflect current training standards that have changed over the past three decades.

House Bill 4325 now moves to the Senate for consideration.