I am writing to support this proposed change in the Commonwealth of Virginia's rule to require licensure for recent graduates who are in supervision working toward the LCSW in order to protect the public and ensure the integrity of the social work profession. This requirement that an LMSW license be obtained prior to earning supervised hours towards a Clinical license will bring our state in line with 80% of the states that already require this and will highlight differences in standards the LMSWs are held to vs Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHPs).  Also of great importance is that by doing so, it provides protection for the public and for supervisors, who, at present, assume risk for the supervisee under their own licenses. 

Thank you, Katharine Z Rossier, LCSW