Delaware Senate Advances Bill Addressing Mental Health Provider Shortage

Delaware’s psychology licensing laws would be modernized, and access to mental health services would be expanded under legislation that has cleared the Delaware Senate. The measure, sponsored by Senate Republican Whip Brian Pettyjohn now heads to the House for further consideration. According to the Delaware State Senate – Republican Caucus, 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. 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. Senator Pettyjohn says Delaware is facing a growing demand for mental health services and needs practical solutions to meet that challenge. He adds that 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.