I do not believe the answer to a workforce shortage is to lower the requirements of those delivering or supervising services.  The quality of services in Virginia appears to be continuously declining.  More individuals seem to be failing to make sustainable progress in services despite being in services significantly longer.  With a focus on improving the quality of services received and recovery focused mindset, individuals/families would be serviced more effectively, and in turn this will allow more individuals to be serviced.  I do not see how this petition would improve or even maintain the quality and safety of services provided. 

Two years of experience should not be the only qualifier considered to ensure an individual is "seasoned" enough to guide/supervise treatment.  I would support the allowance of additional degrees to be considered as qualifying towards a QMHP, but would only do so if the level of expertise, education, and training of the supervisor is upheld. Regardless of degree or licensure status, any supervisor should be required to engage in training related to supervision for that particular scope of practice, whether they are supervising a QMHP or a resident working towards licensure.