How competitive is the program?

What is a cohort?

We will accept small groups of candidates/fellows every July and January, starting in July 2024 through January 2028.

Do I have to pay for supervision?

Yes, however candidates are given stipends to help cover supervision costs

What about clinical license study materials and the fees associated with testing and licensure?

Candidates are eligible for up to $480 in licensure-related expenses

What is a candidate? 

Candidates are individuals who hold an MSW or an equivalent degree in a mental health field and are not yet clinically licensed.

What is the goal of this program?

To increase the percentage of master’s degree graduates who become licensed in Hawai'i. Increase the number of patients served by partially qualified pre- and post-master’s associates. Increase the number of fully licensed master's level mental health professionals who represent the communities being served in targeted states. Improve Heath Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) health professional shortage area scores in identified target communities.

Can I work part-time or on call?

No, this program is for full-time employment and is designed to help candidates achieve licensure in 2 years. 

What if I just got a job offer or just started employment?

Congratulations! The program is intended to help individuals that are early in their licensure journey. 

Who gets priority? How do candidates/fellows get selected? 

Candidates need to start employment in alignment with our cohort recruitment schedule (July/January). Priority categories are as follows:

• Kanaka Maoli and those of indigenous ancestry in Maui (to address the high unmet need for clinical services post-Maui fires).

• Kanaka Maoli and those of indigenous ancestry on neighbor islands.

• Persons of color in Maui and the neighbor islands.

• Kanaka Maoli and persons of color on Oʻahu.

How do I know if the tasks I am doing at my job qualify for hours for my LCSW, LMFT, or LMHC? 

For LCSW, please visit the NASW Hawai'i website for guidance.

For LMFT, consult the Hawaiʻian Islands Association for Marriage and Family Therapy website with specific questions about hours or licensing requirements. See Licensing Requirements here. Also see our Pathway page for more resources!