Are counselors allowed to prescribe medication in Maryland?

In Maryland, the law stipulates that only licensed medical professionals, such as physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, have the authority to prescribe medication. This is rooted in the distinction between the roles of counselors and medical professionals. Counselors, specifically mental health counselors and therapists, focus on providing therapeutic services and mental health support, and they do not possess the medical training required to safely prescribe medications.

While collaboration between counselors and medical professionals is common and encouraged, especially in integrated care settings where a client might benefit from both therapeutic and medicinal support, it does not grant counselors the legal power to prescribe medications. The requirement for a separate and specific medical license ensures that medications are prescribed safely and appropriately, based on a comprehensive understanding of pharmacology and medical history, which is outside the training provided to counselors.

Therefore, the statement that only licensed medical professionals can prescribe medication accurately reflects the legal framework governing practice in Maryland.