I support this petition for three reasons (in brief):.

1. Social Work is the only mental health profession in Virginia that does not license supervisees.  The LPC holds a Resident License.  Social Work must be brought into parity with the Virginia Behavioral Health Boards.
2. 80% of States and DC require licensure for supervisees in clinical social work.  Virginia must meet the prevailing professional standard rather that remain in the low 20%.
3. The Department of Defense is leading the movement to develop an interstate compact which will facilitate multistate practice among member states.  Licensing the supervisee in Clinical Social Work will increase portability when that time comes and meet the prevailing standard (80% licensure for supervisees in clinical social work).

Dolores S. Paulson, PhD, LCSW Past Member of the Virginia Board of Social Work

Past Member of the Board of Social Work

Past Chair of the Virginia Board of Social Work