Behavioral Health Support Specialist Credentialing

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In 2023, the state legislature created a new credential, the Behavioral Health Support Specialist (BHSS), authoring the Department of Health (DOH) to begin credentialing graduates from approved educational programs starting in 2025. Lake Washington Tech is working on its application for approval of the BAS in Behavioral Healthcare (BASBH) as a qualifying program.

Credential Qualifications

As spelled out in state law (WAC 246-824), to qualify for the credential an individual must

  • Graduate from an approved bachelor's degree program, post-baccalaureate continuing education program, or a registered apprenticeship program
    • Having taken at least 45 quarter credits of relevant content
    • Covering the eight specified meta-competencies
  • Complete at least 240 hours of experience through a clinical practicum or apprenticeship under the supervision of a qualified behavioral healthcare professional
  • Apply to the DOH
  • Pass a background check, and
  • Pass a basic exam on the relevant laws

Please refer to the DOH or the UW BHSS Clinical Training Program for complete information on the requirements.

Update

State leaders hope that Behavioral Health Support Specialists will expand treatment opportunities for our community and that, in return, those BHSS will earn higher salaries than other bachelor’s degree level professionals.

As of winter 2025, no colleges have yet been approved or even been able to submit applications. We can say, however, that those behind the state’s development of this credential have given LWTech strong and clear encouragement to proceed, even identifying the LWTech BASBH as a model program for the new credential.

One of the strengths of the LWTech BASBH program is that it is an applied degree. We offer students a rigorous, practical clinical education, including a 270-hour practicum.

BASBH students can choose from a variety of practicum options. The program faculty will clearly identify placements as BHSS-appropriate or not, so that students can choose accordingly.

LWTech hopes to submit its application to the state in the coming months. We will share the results of our application as soon as possible.