DOVER, DE — Legislation sponsored by Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn (R-Georgetown) to modernize Delaware’s psychology licensing laws and expand access to mental health services has cleared the Delaware Senate and now heads to the House for consideration.
Senate Substitute 1 to Senate Bill 208 (SB 208) establishes a regulated licensure pathway for master’s-level psychology clinicians, helping to address ongoing workforce shortages and improve access to care across the state, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
“Today’s vote is an important step toward strengthening Delaware’s mental health care system,” said Senator Pettyjohn. “By creating a clear pathway for qualified master’s-level clinicians, we can expand the workforce and help more Delawareans get the care they need in a timely manner.”
SB 208 does not replace or reduce existing professional licenses, but instead adds a complementary role within the broader mental health care framework, with appropriate oversight and standards in place.
“Delaware is facing a growing demand for mental health services, and we need practical solutions to meet that challenge,” Senator Pettyjohn said. “This legislation supports a more responsive system while maintaining strong safeguards for patients and providers alike.”
The measure has received support from the Delaware Psychological Association and aligns Delaware with licensing approaches adopted in other states.
SB 208 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
###