Advocacy Action Center

Be the Change for MFT in Georgia

 

As we move through the fall of 2024 and prepare for the 2025 legislative session, now is the time to make your voice heard. One of the most effective ways you can support our profession is by building and maintaining relationships with your state legislators. Your personal connection with them can make a significant impact on the success of our legislative efforts.

Encouraging Ongoing Relationships and Support

A key component of effective advocacy is maintaining strong, ongoing relationships with legislators. Reaching out to introduce yourself and offering your support not only builds rapport but also positions you as a valuable resource when mental health issues arise.

Here’s how you can get started:

Introduce Yourself: Reach out to your state senator and representative, introduce yourself as a constituent, and let them know you’re an LMFT committed to improving mental health services in Georgia. Your introduction is the first step in creating a lasting partnership.

Offer Your Assistance: Offer to be a resource for future discussions on mental health issues. By positioning yourself as a knowledgeable and engaged professional, you can become a trusted ally for your legislators as they consider related legislation.

Regular Check-Ins: Keep in touch with your legislators’ offices throughout the year. Express your ongoing interest in mental health initiatives and stay informed about upcoming legislative priorities.

Sample Introduction Email:

Subject: Introduction and Support for Mental Health Initiatives

Dear [Legislator’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist in your district. I wanted to introduce myself and express my commitment to improving mental health services in Georgia.

As we approach the 2025 legislative session, I want to offer my support and assistance as you continue to champion mental health issues. Please know that I am here as a resource and am eager to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on these important matters.

Thank you for your dedication and support for mental health in our community. I look forward to staying in touch and working together to make a difference.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]

By engaging with your legislators in meaningful ways, you help strengthen our advocacy efforts and create lasting partnerships that benefit the Marriage and Family Therapy profession and the communities we serve.

 

2024 Legislative Advocacy Efforts

This year, our advocacy efforts have been focused on increasing mental health care access for Georgians through licensure portability. One of our key victories was the passage of SB 373:

SB 373: A BILL to be entitled an Act to amend Code Section 43-10A-13 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to requirements for licensure in marriage and family therapy, to provide for the issuance of expedited licenses by endorsement for marriage and family therapists. This important bill has been passed and sent to the Governor.

 

Get Involved and Make a Difference

We are forming two study committees to focus on critical issues that are vital to the future of Marriage and Family Therapy in Georgia.

Which are you interested in?

Medicaid and Provider Reimbursement Rates: Reimbursement rates are a key factor in ensuring that LMFTs receive fair compensation for the essential services we provide. This committee will explore current reimbursement practices, identify gaps, and develop strategies to advocate for improved rates across insurance providers. Your input will help shape future legislative initiatives aimed at securing better financial recognition for our profession.

Telehealth: Telehealth has become an indispensable tool for delivering mental health services, particularly in underserved areas. This committee will focus on the current state of telehealth regulations, challenges, and opportunities for LMFTs. We aim to ensure that telehealth remains a viable and accessible option for both therapists and clients, advocating for policies that support and expand telehealth services across Georgia.

CLICK HERE to let us know which committee you are interested in! 

What would joining a committee entail?

These study committees will play a crucial role in preparing for future legislative efforts. By participating, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the development of policies that directly impact our profession and the communities we serve.

The amount of time required for participation is yet to be determined, but meetings will be held online to encourage input from our members across the state. This format will allow for broad participation and ensure that voices from all regions of Georgia are heard.

Your insights and expertise are crucial as we continue to enhance our profession and improve mental health access across Georgia. This form allows you to express your interest in learning more about being considered for this committee. Your involvement will play a vital role in guiding our next steps and legislative priorities.

Together, let’s make 2024-25 a year of impactful change and progress for MFTs in Georgia!