I support regulating the practice of art therapy. Our communities continue to be in great need of access to mental health care and it feels imperative to remove as many barriers as possible.  Without a path to licensure in the state of Virginia, art therapists have been forced to double up on their education and training to obtain additional licenses, move to a state with an active license for art therapists, and/or work in positions that do not always allow them to use their full set of skills when supporting clients.  In addition, this regulatory process would also protect the public from those who are advertising themselves as art therapists without adequate training.  It is my hope that this process is completed soon so that we can be a part of the solution to the mental health crisis we face.