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]
Action Changes resulting from periodic review
Stage Proposed
Comment Period Ended on 4/1/2022
spacer
Previous Comment     Next Comment     Back to List of Comments
3/29/22  10:34 am
Commenter: FLERLAGE LCPC, LCADC

opposed
 
I strongly oppose the proposed regulations - Put the needs of clients FIRST.
 

I strongly oppose the proposed regulations for licensure by endorsement as there is no documented evidence that licensed counselors who graduated from programs accredited by CACREP are better prepared than their peers who graduated from other programs. There is NO evidence that licensed counselors who graduated from programs accredited by CACREP are better prepared than their peers who graduated from other programs. 

This proposed legislation makes it difficult for clients to access specialized care that may not be available in their immediate vicinity, and therefor may cause significant harm to those seeking a continuation of care. 

Instead, I support the Counseling Compact, which accomplishes portability in an inclusive way. The Compact would allow licensed counselors to practice across state lines, providing services in a state in the Compact.

I strongly urge you to consider these clients and skilled clinicians, especially during this global period of mental health crisis - and to vote NO to the proposed legislation. 

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Debra Flerlage LCPC, LCADC

CommentID: 120948