(1) The definition in this subsection applies throughout this section unless the context clearly requires otherwise. The term "licensure candidate" means an individual seeking supervised experience to fulfill requirements for a license. This includes the following individuals who practice under an approved supervisor:

(a) Mental health counselor associate;

(b) Marriage and family therapist associate;

(c) Social worker associate;

(d) Individual practicing on a pending associate credential;

(e) Agency affiliated counselor;

(f) Graduate level psychology student; or

(g) Other individual who meets education requirements in chapter 246-809 WAC and is legally able to perform mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, advanced social work, or independent clinical social work under RCW 18.225.010.

(2) For a licensure candidate, supervision must include:

(a) Both the approved supervisor and the licensure candidate communicating the nature of the supervisory relationship to the public, other professionals, and all clients served, consistent with the requirements of WAC 246-809-710(2);

(b) Regular supervision, meeting at least one hour for every 80 hours of the licensure candidate's clinical practice time;

(c) The approved supervisor reviewing any assessment or diagnosis by a licensure candidate practicing on a pending associate credential. The approved supervisor must agree with any assessment or diagnosis prior to it being provided to the patient; and

(d) Discussing the following topics:

(i) Services provided by the licensure candidate;

(ii) Caseload and treatment plans of the licensure candidate;

(iii) Theory and practice of the work conducted by the licensure candidate;

(iv) Relevant Washington laws and rules;

(v) Standards of practice;

(vi) Coordination of work with other professionals and parties; and

(vii) Relevant professional literature and research.

(3) The approved supervisor shall:

(a) Qualify as an approved supervisor or equally qualified licensed mental health practitioner under this chapter and, in the event they no longer meet the supervisor qualifications, immediately notify licensure candidates under their supervision;

(b) Have the necessary expertise and knowledge to directly supervise the licensure candidate's work;

(c) Assure that the licensure candidate has sufficient and appropriate education, background, and preparation for the work they will conduct;

(d) Provide sufficient training and supervision to the licensure candidate to ensure the health and safety of clients; and

(e) Maintain documentation of supervision provided.

(4) A candidate seeking licensure as a licensed marriage and family therapist or licensed social worker must ensure that any supervision hours under a licensed mental health counselor or other equally qualified licensed mental health practitioner comply with the requirements in WAC 246-809-130 or 246-809-330, as applicable.