As the mental health crisis intensifies across our state, it is increasingly crucial that all professionals in the healthcare sector operate at the highest level of their licensure capabilities. Currently, Virginia residents are facing extensive waitlists for essential services, which impedes their access to timely mental health care. This situation also places an undue burden on Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), who are responsible for managing a broad array of services and associated billing.

The delay in advancing the proposed legislation exacerbates the challenges faced by an already overwhelmed behavioral health services system. Without this critical reform, the constraints on LPCs will persist, further impeding the delivery of necessary services to those in need.

We propose that immediate action be taken to push this law through, as it will alleviate the current pressures on LPCs and enhance the efficiency of mental health service delivery. By doing so, we can ensure that Virginia residents receive timely and effective care, and that LPCs are better supported in their vital roles.