Ala. Code § 34-17A-2: Legislative Intent.

(a) Marriage and family therapy in the State of Alabama is declared to be a professional practice which affects the public safety and welfare and requires appropriate regulation and control in the public interest.

(b) It is the intent of this chapter to establish a regulatory agency, structure, and procedures which will ensure that the public is protected from the unprofessional, improper, unauthorized, and unqualified practice of marriage and family therapy.