Can someone help me understand what the R credential means in New York State?
From the language at your link:
The "R" designation can be given to
An LCSW who fulfills the requirements of the insurance law for supervised experience providing psychotherapy, is recognized in New York State as a reimbursable psychotherapist.The requirements for "supervised" experience are
three years of supervised experience in psychotherapy obtained after receiving the LCSW [license].So - an "R" designation can be given to an LCSW that:
a. has been granted the LCSW license and;
b. has three years of supervised experience.
It appears that your client has not fulfilled the requirements of (a) or (b), or maybe both.