Chapter II page 15-16, DMAS requirements regarding provider qualifications for outpatient counseling

The child mental health system has needed support, primarily with Medicaid reimbursement as its funding.  Changes like this will be derimental and dangerous for the children, families, and the school systems that are involved. Children, families, shools and adults of low SES need services, and there are not enough providers as of right now in VA who can provide it. There are waitlist everywhere. Out of the 133 localities in VA, 100 of them already do not have enough mental health professionals to serve children and their families (Voices for VA's Children). To change this regulation, will be severe and will impact ALL OF VIRGINIA, not just the unlicensed professionals, but the entire state of Virginia. With the state of mental health these days, mental health services are needed to stablize our cities, communities, schools, state and country!  This proposed change to disallow residents in counseling and unlicensed counselors to be able to bring in Medicaid reimbursement will reduce service availability to children, adults, and families significantly and will reduce the training arena for our burgeoning professionals.   DO NOT PASS THIS CHANGE IN THE REGULATIONS, it is dangerous and foolish to do so!