The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board's Marriage and Family Therapy Advisory Committee meeting on August 15, 2025, spotlighted the ongoing debate over the use of televideo for supervision in therapy practices. Committee members expressed concerns about whether all supervision could be conducted remotely, a flexibility that was initially introduced during the pandemic. While some states reverted to stricter in-person requirements, Kansas has maintained its allowance for televideo supervision, which many practitioners appreciate for its efficiency and accessibility.

One committee member emphasized the importance of clarifying this option to ensure that all licensed professionals are aware that they can fulfill their supervision hours via telehealth. This discussion is set to continue in future meetings, with plans to explore the supervision topic further and gather feedback on any negative issues related to telehealth practices.

In addition to supervision discussions, the committee is preparing to address the implications of artificial intelligence in therapy. Recent federal legislation that could have restricted state regulation of AI was ultimately amended, allowing the committee to proceed with its recommendations without concern for federal limitations.

Looking ahead, the committee aims to focus on two key questions for the next meeting: the impact of telehealth on practice and the role of AI in therapy. Members are encouraged to review these topics in preparation for a productive discussion.

The meeting also touched on the process for appointing new advisory committee members, with a goal of ensuring staggered terms to maintain continuity. The committee is considering a diverse range of applicants to enhance representation across different licensing levels and geographic areas.

As the advisory committee navigates these critical discussions, the outcomes could significantly shape the future of marriage and family therapy practices in Kansas, particularly in adapting to technological advancements and ensuring effective supervision methods.