As the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) gears up for the upcoming legislative session, significant discussions are underway regarding the future of licensing examinations for psychology professionals. During the Professional Counseling Advisory Committee meeting on December 12, 2024, members were briefed on the implications of recent changes proposed by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).

The ASPPB has announced a pivotal shift in its licensing examination requirements, which could impact states across the nation. Starting in 2026, states wishing to continue using the existing licensing examination must require candidates to pass both the current EPPP and a new skills-based test, the EPPP2. This decision has sparked considerable concern among various state boards, including Kansas, as it could create additional barriers to licensure.

The Kansas BSRB has been actively involved in discussions surrounding this issue. The board expressed strong support for a proposed bylaw amendment that would allow states to choose whether to adopt the EPPP2, rather than mandating its requirement. This amendment was driven by concerns over the financial burden on candidates, as the EPPP costs $600 and the EPPP2 costs an additional $450. The board's position reflects a desire for flexibility and autonomy in licensing decisions.

In a recent national meeting, board members clarified that the ASPPB's earlier statement about "pausing" the requirement for both tests was not intended to imply a temporary halt. Instead, they indicated a commitment to further explore the integration of both tests into a single unified examination. This development has been welcomed by many, as it alleviates immediate concerns about the potential loss of a licensing test for psychology professionals.

In addition to the licensing discussions, the meeting also covered updates on legislative recommendations for the addiction counseling and marriage and family therapy professions. The board is seeking to eliminate vague language regarding "preparing for the practice" from existing statutes, aiming for clearer standards in the upcoming 2025 legislative session.

As the BSRB prepares for a busy spring at the Capitol, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged with these critical developments that will shape the future of mental health licensing in Kansas.