Implementing CACREP accreditation is unneeded in the licensing of qualified mental health professionals.  Despite my experience and full current independent licensure within the Maryland Board, I would be unable to legally practice in the State of Virginia.  While I can appreciate what CACREP accreditation offers schools and their graduates, I feel this is a drastic measure to separate and limit qualified mental health professionals from serving the people of Virginia. 

I do approve of additional education if a state's population has specific needs, but these should be more from a continuing education standpoint (must complete this 6-credit course with a provisional license, for example) versus mandating seven additional years of practice before being fully licensed.  I believe it is mind-boggling that Virginia is limiting its potential counselor pool, especially from neighboring states, such as Maryland, which have robust and extensive graduate school programs.  I oppose including CACREP standards into licensing protocols, and suggest Virginia moves along the lines of full reciprocity for independently licensed clinicians from other states.