MFT License Renewal

Melissa Wilson, MA, LMFT

So you want to be sure and know when and how do I renew my license. This is an important step in our profession as it allows us to continue to collect payment from insurance companies. Here is the down low on license renewal.

All licenses will get a reminder from the DCCA that it is time to renew your license. But I would not just rely on mail alone as things get lost, delayed, etc. First and foremost, make sure your address is up to date with the DCCA. To change your address go to ​pvl.ehawaii.gov​, log in and select change address. Also check on your license when your expiration date is. Expect a renewal approximately one month prior to renewal from the DCCA.

Secondly is CEU’s. In 2017 Hawaii began implementation of CEU (continuing education units) for all licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. This was implemented by our organization at the time to advance our profession. This is a requirement. Below is the actual up to date information regarding CEU’s. DCCA does not currently need proof of CEU’s but if you get audited during renewal time they will ask for proof of CEU’s.

“Beginning with the renewal for the licensing triennium 1/1/2017 - 12/31/2019, and prior to every triennial renewal thereafter, each licensee shall complete 45 credit hours of CE within the 3-year period preceding the renewal date; provided that a minimum of 6 credit hours are in ethics. Thus, to renew for the licensing triennium starting on 1/1/2017, the licensee shall complete 45 credit hours of CE between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2019. A first-time licensee is exempt from the CE requirement for the first license renewal. For instance, if you were initially issued a license between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2019, you are exempt from the CE requirement for this renewal period only.”

To summarize, we need 45 units in 3 years. First time licensees are exempt from CEU’s for the first renewal. Keep copies of all your credits, dates, places, title of workshops and who provided the workshop just in case. If you have any questions please call DCCA, marriage and family therapy division at (808) 586- 2692.

About the author

Ms. Wilson resides on the island of Kaua’i where she owns a private practice providing services as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). Ms. Wilson is the HIAMFT Kaua’i Chapter Representative and Chair of the HIAMFT Continuing Education Committee.

For more information please visit the HIAMFT website.
And be sure to find on social media!                                                                         

FB: @MFTHawaii
IG:  @HawaiiMFT