What Counts Toward Clinical Hours in Hawaiʻi
Understanding what counts toward clinical hours is an important part of working toward licensure in Hawaiʻi. Many supervisees are surprised to learn that not every work activity counts toward their required hours.
Tracking the correct types of experience helps ensure that you meet licensing requirements and avoid delays in your application process.
Direct Client Contact
Direct client contact is typically the most important category of clinical hours.
This includes time spent:
• Conducting therapy sessions
• Completing intake assessments
• Providing crisis intervention
• Leading therapy groups
• Delivering other direct therapeutic services
These hours represent the core of your clinical training.
Indirect Clinical Activities
Some indirect activities may also count toward supervised experience. These may include:
• Case documentation
• Treatment planning
• Clinical consultation
• Professional development related to clinical work
However, the percentage of indirect hours that count toward licensure may be limited.
Supervision Hours
Supervision sessions themselves are also a required part of the licensure process.
Supervision may include:
• Individual supervision
• Group supervision
• Case consultation with a qualified supervisor
These sessions ensure that supervisees receive guidance, support, and accountability during their clinical training.
Tracking Hours Properly
Keeping accurate records of your clinical hours is essential.
Supervisees should track:
• Dates of clinical work
• Type of activity
• Number of hours completed
• Supervision sessions attended
Accurate documentation helps prevent confusion and ensures that your hours are accepted when applying for licensure.
When in Doubt, Ask
Licensure requirements can be complex, and regulations may change over time.
When questions arise about whether a particular activity counts toward clinical hours, it is best to consult your supervisor or review guidance from the Hawaiʻi licensing board.
