Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Counseling
 
chapter
Regulations Governing the Practice of Professional Counseling [18 VAC 115 ‑ 20]
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8/9/24  12:48 pm
Commenter: Melanie Adkins, NRVCS

Strongly oppose- not good for the public or the profession
 

Allowing residents to bill independently sends a message that supervision requirements are not important.  The current regulations protect the public by ensuring supervision is in place and that the supervisor has significant involvement  before billing can occur.  Supervision is an essential part of the development of the skills and knowledge necessary for independent practice. 

The counseling profession struggles already with the respect of the public and a perception that "anyone" can provide counseling.  This change does nothing to support recognition of the substantial education and training that is (and should be) required for independent practice as a Professional Counselor 

CommentID: 227325