On behalf of the only organization exclusively representing Clinical Mental Health Counselors in the nation, I strongly oppose legislation that will create barriers to accessing mental healthcare. Requiring seven additional years of experience for non-CACREP graduates of regionally accredited institutions for licensure endorsement, denies the public, individuals, and deserving families the opportunity to select from an expanded registry of competent and diverse clinicians already having the designated title of Licensed Professional Counselors. The citizens of Virginia need greater access, not reduced access, to mental healthcare services. The Counseling Compact can increase access and help to close the gap on mental health disparities.

Beverly Smith, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS, NCSC, CFT, BC-HSP, MAC, CPCS, BC-TMH, BCPCC, CCTP

President & Interim CEO

American Mental Health Counselors Association