Hello, my name is Suzy Gordon and I am currently an occupational therapy doctoral student at Virginia Commonwealth University. I will graduate in May and be seeking a job in mental health upon graduating. Mental health is important as it plays a very critical role in client's needs and it is essential and neccessary to provide as much care as possible, and as soon as possible, to all of those in need.

Occupational therapists have been working in the area of mental health helping clients develop the skills to live healthier, more satisfying daily lives since the profession began over 100 years ago. Occupational therapists have  been recognized in federal legislation and by federal agencies as  mental health providers and we need to do the same here in Virginia.

I am writing in support of the proposed changes to the emergency regulations for occupational therapists to register as qualified mental health providers for adults and children in the state of Virginia. I support a revision of Part II Requirements for Registration regulation 18VAC115-80-40 B.5 to be 500 hours instead of 1,500 in order to help as many in need as soon as possible. Requirements for registration as a QMHP-A and 18VAC115-80-50 B.4. Requirements for registration as a QMHP-C 

Thank you for your time, your service to the Board of Counseling and to the Commonwealth of Virginia and your thoughtful consideration  of this request. 

Sincerely,

Suzy Gordon, OTDS

Virginia Commonwealth University