I am a therapist in private practice in Charlottesville, VA.  I accept Medicaid insurance but am often full, as are many of my colleagues who accept Medicaid.  What this means is that there are more people needing therapy than there are therapists to provide services to them.  The decision to not allow residents in counseling or supervisee’s in social work to provide outpatient services under the supervision of a licensed therapist seems illogical and definitely not in the best interest of the people.  It is clear to anyone who pays attention to the news that our communities and our country are in need of more available mental health services and support … not less!  I am baffled at how this decision was even considered. 

Part of my training in preparation for becoming a licensed clinical social worker was providing outpatient therapy under the supervision of a licensed therapist.  This experience was invaluable to me.  It is the BEST training one can get … AND … it benefits the people in need of services.  It’s a Win-Win.  Please reconsider this change in regulations.  Let's work on expanding services, not decreasing.