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.

What we study as students of couseling is all to prepare us to meet the very specific and needed role as counselors.  Psychology and Counseling have distinct philosophical and practical differences, which are reflected in the curricular experiences each requires.  A masters in Psychology is not intended to prepare students for the same role at all.

All 50 states have a licensed professional counselor credential and it would cause any student in the Commenwealth of Virginia to be at a disadvantage upon entering the profession and perhaps cause great students to move out of state to practice.  Clearly, Virginia needs trained, qualified and smart counselors. Please do not alter the standards that make them so.