The Virginia Clinical Counselors Alliance is in opposition to this petition.  We believe that the professional identity of counselors is important, and that Counseling is a distinct profession, as Psychology is a distinct profession.  We do not agree with the concerns about the lack of mental health professionals to serve in Virginia, as Virginia has 18 counseling master’s degree programs. Of particular concern is that 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. The Board of Counseling is responsible for protecting the public and ensuring client welfare, including ensuring that professional counselors are prepared as counselors in counseling programs rather than psychology programs.

Susanne E. Preston-Josey, PhD, LPC

President, Virginia Clinical Counselor’s Alliance