I oppose this petition because  the Board of Counseling in Virginia has determined that it cannot ethically sanction those trained in the discipline of professional psychology to practice as Professional Counselors, just as the Board of Psychology cannot ethically sanction those trained in the discipline of Professional Counseling to practice as professional psychologists.

This is not an issue of CACREP vs. non-CACREP programs. It is an issue of Counseling as a distinct profession, and Psychology as a distinct profession.Psychology and Counseling have distinct philosophical and practical differences, which are reflected in the curricular experiences each requires. All 50 states have a licensed professional counselor credential.There are 12 CACREP accredited Counseling master’s programs in Virginia, and another six Counseling Masters programs that are not CACREP accredited across the Commonwealth, so there is no lack of opportunity to address the needs of students or of the public. The Board of Counseling is responsible for protecting the public and ensuring client welfare.  Part of that responsibility is being sure that professional counselors are prepared as counselors.