As a current doctoral student and a former counselor in the field, I can speak to the quality education provided by a Counselor Education program in preparing future licensed clinicians.  In the field I have witnessed the quality work provided to clients from counselors trained in Counselor Education Programs.  These counselors are competent in counseling skills, aware of cultural issues, and understand the meaning of intentional and best practices.  Additionally, as a doctoral student working closely with master’s students I understand the rigors placed on students to develop professionally and become competent counselors.  By pursuing and achieving your licenses in the state of Virginia, it is understood that you demonstrate the qualities indicative of a competent counselor.  By allowing Clinical and Counseling Psychology programs to pursue licensure we, as counselors, are redefining of what it means to be a competent counselor in Virginia.  Redefining the words it will have a negative impact on counselors, and more importantly on the clients we serve.  This is not to say that Clinical or Counseling Psychology programs do not prepare their students, but it is saying that they define what it means to be “competent” in one’s field differently.  This distinction is an important one and one that should be maintained and protected.     Therefore, I oppose this petition.