I support this petition.

It is important that we not lose sight of the purpose of this petition.

Advocating for policy changes that address systemic barriers to licensure, such as reducing the passing score on the EPPP, or modifying licensure requirements to be more inclusive, is essential to creating a more equitable path to professional practice for all individuals. Presumably, this is the goal of the petition.

Noteworthy, The VACP was founded in 1975 "when patients' rights to receive mental health services directly from clinical psychologists were threatened by insurance requirements that clinical psychologists be personally supervised by physicians." The VACP sued the insurance company so that psychologists in Virginia could practice independently (VACP, 2023).

History continues, and in 2024, this petition will ensure that all psychologists can practice independently, thereby limiting the barriers to passing an exam that, according to research, does not fully assess clinical competency and skills. I do not think those in favor of the petition are seeking monetary compensation, nor are they gloating about suing any organizations. I am asking the board to consider the ethics code and introduce a fair scoring system that reflects inclusivity, and one that does not harm its professionals. 

The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a critical hurdle for aspiring psychologists in the United States and Canada. It serves as a standardized assessment of the knowledge and skills deemed necessary for the independent practice of psychology. However, this has been challenged and concerns have been raised about the disparities in pass rates, cultural biases within the exam content, and systemic barriers to licensure.

Research indicates that some groups often score lower on the EPPP, leading to lower pass rates; and consequently, fewer opportunities for licensure and professional advancement. These disparities can be attributed to test bias, economic barriers, content relevance, and cultural bias. Reducing the passing score creates access to the psychology field for those who have given years of their lives to earn their PsyD or PhD. Reducing the score will increase representation for many people in the field of psychology, which is so desperately needed, given the limited amount of representation for some groups of people. 

I am asking the board to consider these issues and address these concerns. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to reform the EPPP scoring, and dismantle the systemic barriers that hinder one's access to licensure and professional advancement. By taking these steps, the field of psychology can move toward greater inclusivity, equity, and representation, ultimately improving mental health outcomes for all communities.

Respectfully,

A concerned professional