TX SB2088

Expands Medicaid recipient choice to include associate-level mental health providers: licensed marriage and family therapist associates, licensed master social workers pursuing clinical licensure, and licensed professional counselor associates working toward full licensure

Changes terminology from "licensed master social worker" to "licensed clinical social worker" for fully licensed providers eligible under existing Medicaid provisions

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed professional counselors, and licensed clinical social workers at rates equal to those paid to psychiatrists or psychologists for similar services

Sets reimbursement for associate-level providers at 70% of the psychiatrist/psychologist rate for comparable counseling services

Takes effect September 1, 2025, with provisions allowing delay if federal waiver or authorization is required for implementation