As used in this chapter, the following definitions apply:

1. (1) "Behavioral health" includes a person with a diagnosis of:

   1. (a) a mental disorder, as that term is defined in 53-21-102; or
   2. (b) chemical dependency, as that term is defined in 53-24-103.
2. (2) "Behavioral health peer support" means the use of a peer support specialist's personal experience with a behavioral health disorder to provide support, mentoring, guidance, and advocacy and to offer hope to individuals with behavioral health disorders.
3. (3) "Board" means the board of behavioral health established under 2-15-1744.

4. (4) "Certified behavioral health peer support specialist" means a person who:

   1. (a) has experienced and is in recovery from a behavioral health disorder;
   2. (b) has obtained the education and skills needed to provide therapeutic support to individuals with behavioral health disorders; and
   3. (c) possesses a valid and current certification.

5. (5) "Mental health professional" means:

   1. (a) a physician licensed under Title 37, chapter 3;
   2. (b) a psychologist licensed under Title 37, chapter 17;
   3. (c) a social worker licensed under Title 37, chapter 22;
   4. (d) a professional counselor licensed under Title 37, chapter 23;
   5. (e) an advanced practice registered nurse, as provided for in 37-8-202, with a clinical specialty in psychiatric mental health nursing;
   6. (f) a marriage and family therapist licensed under Title 37, chapter 37; or
   7. (g) a licensed addiction counselor licensed under Title 37, chapter 35.

History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 127, L. 2017.