5/12/25

By FHSU University Communications

HAYS, Kan. — Fort Hays State University’s Counseling Program has been approved as a Registered Credential Training Provider (RCTP) for the Board Certified–TeleMental Health (BC‑TMH) credential by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) and its credentialing affiliate, the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE).

This designation places FHSU among a select group of institutions nationwide authorized to offer training that meets NBCC’s national standards for telemental health practice. As an RCTP, FHSU can provide coursework that fulfills the educational training requirements for the BC‑TMH credential, supporting both counseling students and licensed professionals seeking to strengthen their competence in ethical, legal, and effective technology‑assisted mental health services.

“This designation reflects the strength of our counseling program and our commitment to preparing students for the realities of modern practice,” said Dr. Elliot Isom, associate professor and counseling faculty member at Fort Hays State University. “Telehealth is no longer optional in our field—it is essential to meeting client needs, especially in rural and underserved communities.”

FHSU delivers BC‑TMH‑aligned training through its Advanced Education Programs, offering a structured sequence of courses that address telemental health foundations, advanced clinical skills, and service delivery for special populations. Designed for flexibility and accessibility, the fully online format allows graduate students and working professionals to engage in high‑quality training while developing practical, real‑world skills.

The initiative is further supported by Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) grant funding, which is focused on expanding telehealth education and strengthening the behavioral health workforce across Kansas. Grant support aids curriculum development, training opportunities, and outreach efforts to improve access to mental health services statewide.

“This work is directly aligned with workforce needs across Kansas,” said Dr. Tristen Hyatt, assistant professor and counseling faculty member. “By expanding access to high‑quality telehealth training, we are helping providers reach more clients and improve the overall availability of mental health care in our communities.”

Students enrolled in FHSU’s counseling programs may begin completing BC‑TMH‑aligned training as part of their graduate coursework. Licensed counselors and other qualified professionals may participate through continuing education offerings within Advanced Education Programs. While training may be completed prior to licensure, the BC‑TMH credential is awarded after a clinician obtains an independent license and successfully completes the required application and examination process.

As demand for virtual mental health services continues to rise, FHSU’s RCTP designation reinforces the university’s role in preparing a counseling workforce equipped to meet evolving delivery needs.

Individuals interested in learning more about telemental health training opportunities or the pathway to the BC‑TMH credential may visit the Fort Hays State University website or contact the Department of Advanced Education Programs.