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Stephen Simpson is the mental health reporter, based in Austin, where he covers behavioral health in schools, treatment in the judicial system, substance abuse and the state mental health system, among other topics. He previously worked in his home state of Arkansas as a politics reporter, where he covered the state's Supreme Court, House of Representatives and correctional system for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Stephen's earliest career experiences include reporting and copy editing at The Jonesboro Sun and The Pine Bluff Commercial. He earned a degree in online and print journalism with a minor in filmmaking from the University of Central Arkansas.
The president-elect previously supported community mental health programs in Texas, the 988 hotline and addressed the opioid crisis, but his plan to address homelessness threatens that legacy. Full Story
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Texas prohibits people with assault convictions, among other felonies, from becoming social workers. A new lawsuit says the ban is unconstitutional. Full Story
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The national licensing board announced it will consider folding the proposed skills test into an existing exam amid worries the additional hurdle would discourage applicants. Full Story
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Medical marijuana providers say they must operate under strict rules while hemp products like delta-8 can proliferate. Full Story
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Lawmakers and child care centers are pushing for a statewide mental health system for toddlers. Full Story
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Other states look to Texas as the state psychology board pushes against the new national licensing requirements. Full Story
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Texas officials look to Arizona cities when creating crisis mental health centers. Full Story
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Future Texas therapists must complete internships to start their careers, but there’s not enough providers to mentor all of the students. Full Story
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Three other cities have passed similar measures but the Texas AG and others question whether they can be enforced because of conflicts with state law. Full Story
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Under a Harvard Medical School pilot program, church members and leaders will work as interns before counseling on their own, referring more serious cases to medical providers. Full Story
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