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Hancock County News

Crider named 2021 Public Elected Official of the Year

The National Association of Social Workers' Indiana Chapter (NASW-Indiana Chapter) recently presented State Sen. Michael Crider (R-Greenfield) with the 2021 Public Elected Official of the Year Award.

 

"Sen. Crider has seen firsthand the intersection between the criminal justice system and behavioral health systems. This has helped guide his work in the General Assembly to author some of the most innovative changes to both systems," Katrina Norris, NASW-Indiana Chapter board president, said. "Sen. Crider is Indiana's behavioral health MVP!"

 

Crider received this award, in part, for legislation he authored and helped pass during the 2021 legislative session. Under Senate Enrolled Act 82, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, clinical addiction counselors and physician assistants can now diagnose and refer an individual to start mental health treatment. These professionals are required to complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of practice under a licensed supervisor in order to diagnose mental health disorders.

 

Prior to the passage of SEA 82, professionals who met this requirement could only perform a diagnostic impression. A diagnostic impression evaluates the presenting problem, but does not include a diagnosis.

 

"In recent sessions, destigmatizing mental health and ensuring Hoosiers have access to safe and reliable mental health services has been one of my highest legislative priorities," Crider said. "I am honored to receive this recognition and will continue to be an advocate for improved mental health services for Hoosiers."

 

To learn more about bills Crider has authored and had passed into law, click here.

 

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