Action | Add Licensed Behavior Analysts to the Definition of Licensed Mental Health Professional |
Stage | Fast-Track |
Comment Period | Ended on 11/14/2018 |
As requirements for mental health services rise, Virginia needs to increase the quantity and quality of the mental healthcare system. By including licensed behavior analyst as a professional, mental health services availability would increase; thus, contributing to a more effective and efficient mental healthcare system. The provision to include LBAs as a LMHP would not only benefit individuals directly involved with mental health needs, but also society as the economy diversifies and expands. Through professionalization, career-seekers may witness an increase in wages, which enhances the quality of life, the economy, and the quality of service. Focusing on the quality of service, professionalization could require more strenuous training; thus, making the services better and overall understanding of needs clear. Since the provision does not have negative externalities, I believe that LBAs should be listed as a LMHP to increase the quantity and quality of our mental healthcare system.