Senate Resolution 589
By: Senators Walker III of the 20th, Kirkpatrick of the 32nd, Hatchett of the 50th, Echols of
the 49th and Albers of the 56th
A RESOLUTION
Commending the marriage and family therapists of Georgia and recognizing February 11,
2026, as Marriage and Family Therapy Day at the Capitol; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, strong families and healthy relationships are foundational to the civic,
economic, and social vitality of Georgia, fostering responsibility, resilience, and respect for
others while embodying the shared values of perseverance, integrity, and neighborly care that
define Georgia's proud heritage and continue to guide its progress; and
WHEREAS, marriage and family therapy is one of the five essential mental health
professions licensed in Georgia, requiring graduate education, multiple years of supervised
clinical training, and adherence to rigorous professional and ethical standards enforced by
the Georgia Composite Board of Professional Counselors, Social Workers, and Marriage and
Family Therapists; and
WHEREAS, licensed marriage and family therapists apply systems-focused clinical training
in mental health care and psychotherapy to deliver effective, evidence-based evaluation,
diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, behavioral, addiction, and
relationship challenges across the lifespan for Georgia's families, children, individuals,
couples, and communities; and
WHEREAS, marriage and family therapists serve Georgia's diverse regions—including rural
and underserved communities—by helping families overcome barriers to access, reducing
strain on other systems, and promoting resilience across generations; and
WHEREAS, these practitioners collaborate with schools, courts, other healthcare providers,
community organizations, and public agencies to strengthen individuals and families and
contribute to safer, healthier, and more stable communities throughout Georgia; and
WHEREAS, the gathering of marriage and family therapists at the state capitol underscores
their commitment to public policy engagement and their dedication to improving the quality
of and access to mental health care for all Georgians; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting to commend the marriage and family therapists of Georgia for their
professionalism, compassion, and lasting contributions to the well-being of this state.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body
commend the licensed marriage and family therapists of Georgia for their vital contributions
to the mental, relational, and community health of this state and recognize February 11, 2026,
as Marriage and Family Therapy Day at the Capitol.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed
to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Georgia
Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.