By: Cristina N. Hyde, JD
On Friday, September 24, 2021, Governor Murphy approved Assembly Bill No. 4205, making New Jersey the 16th state to enter into the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact. The Compact provides an avenue for psychological services to be offered across state borders. Designed to facilitate the practice of telepsychology and the in-person, face-to-face practice of psychology among and across the borders of member states, it is an acknowledgement of the critical need to address disparities in access to care that exist throughout the country.
Established in 2015, the Compact arose from a belief that the advancement of a viable telehealth option of psychological services is critical to the nation’s healthcare needs. In addition to being accessible, supporters believe that the versatility and affordability of telepsychology make it a crucial asset against the ongoing mental health crisis that already exited in the United States and has been exacerbated by COVID-19.
The Compact allows licensed psychologists to provide telepsychology services to patients in any other member state. It also allows limited in-person, face-to-face services, amounting to no more than 30 days in a calendar year. In-person services are subject to the provider giving notice to the member state and are subject to that state’s scope of practice requirements; including disciplinary measures, if necessary.
In order to practice psychology under the Compact, a psychologist must hold a graduate degree in psychology from an accredited institution, a foreign equivalent, or a recognized and approved psychology program. Providers must also show that no criminal history or averse professional disciplinary actions exist against them, and meet any other requirements established by the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact Commission. Moreover, psychologists licensed to practice in participating states, must apply to the Commission for an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT). Comprehensive information on the application process and other valuable resources can be found on the PSYPACT website.
Campanella Law Office supports any and all efforts to increase the accessibility of metal health services to individuals in need. If you have any questions regarding to your practice and how it may be affected by A.4205 or associated with the Compact, Contact Us.