I am a new graduate in the process of completing my residency for LPC.  I have some concerns about the CACREP-Only rule and the application of this requirement to Professional Counseling.  My business partner and I both returned to graduate school to complete schooling and ultimately obtain licensure that would enhance our services in our company.  She and I graduated at the same time, my partner with a MSW.  She is currently completing her residence through the board of social work for LCSW and will be able to provide counseling as well.  Unlike my MA in Professional Counseling, she did not have to take 60 hours of counseling-specific studies, she did not have to have 600 hours of internship in the counseling field with a minimum of 250 direct counseling hours, her residency is the first time that she has been face to face with clients in a counseling capacity.  Yet, as an LCSW, she will be able to provide counseling services equal to and LPC.

In Virginia, there are LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCs, School Counselors, Pastoral Counselors, and others who are able to provide counseling services, all trained in their own disciplines but not all trained alike.  CACREP-Only for services licensed under the Board of counseling that is not also applicable to those practicing counseling under other licensing boards in Virginia is incomplete.