The Kentucky Certification of Qualified Mental Health Professional for 72 Hour Hospitalization is a certification awarded by the Kentucky Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (KMH SAS) that enables qualified mental health professionals to conduct pre-admission screenings and to initiate and complete the 72-hour hospitalization process for individuals in need of mental health services. This certification is available for mental health professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, and other professionals who meet the KMH SAS’s requirements. The certification is divided into three levels: Basic level, Advanced level, and Master’s level. The Basic certification is awarded to professionals who have completed a KMHSAS-approved 72-hour hospitalization training program. The Advanced level certification is awarded to professionals who have completed a KMHSAS-approved training program and have at least two years of experience in the field of mental health. The Master’s level certification is awarded to professionals who have completed a KMHSAS-approved training program, have at least five years of experience in the field of mental health, and have a master’s degree. In order to maintain the certification, professionals must complete continuing education requirements as determined by KMH SAS.