OAR 291-124-1030: Qualified Mental Health Associate and Qualified Mental Health Professional Standards

(1) A qualified mental health associate (QMHA) must meet the following minimum qualifications: (a) Bachelor's degree in a behavioral sciences field; or (b) A combination of at least three years relevant work, education, training or experience; and (c) Demonstrate the competency necessary to communicate effectively; understand mental health assessment, treatment and service terminology and apply these concepts; provide psychosocial skills development; implement interventions as assigned on an individual plan of care; and provide behavior management and case management duties. (2) A qualified mental health professional (QMHP) is a licensed medical practitioner or any other person who holds any of the following educational degrees and meets the following minimum qualifications: (a) Graduate degree in psychology; (b) Bachelor's degree in nursing and licensed by the State of Oregon; (c) Graduate degree in social work; (d) Graduate degree in a behavioral science field; (e) Graduate degree in recreational, music, or art therapy (f) Bachelor's degree in occupational therapy and licensed by the State of Oregon; and (g) Whose education and experience demonstrate the competency to identify precipitating events; gather histories of mental and physical disabilities, alcohol and drug use, past mental health services and criminal justice contacts; assess family, social and work relationships; conduct a mental status examination; document a multiaxial DSM diagnosis; write and supervise an individual plan of care; conduct a mental health assessment and provide individual, family or group therapy within the scope of their training.