Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Counseling intends to consider amending 18VAC115-20, Regulations Governing the Practice of Professional Counseling. The board conducted a comprehensive review of current regulations governing the practice of professional counseling and determined that it is essential to continue the regulation of licensed professional counselors, but that there are modifications necessary to clarify and update requirements. The board will address the education and experience necessary for clinical licensure by examination or endorsement to provide assurance of minimal competency in clinical counseling. Additionally, the board found some gaps in its standards of practice and grounds for unprofessional conduct that it intends to close with proposed amendments.

The agency intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 54.1-2400 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: August 31, 2011.

Agency Contact: Evelyn B. Brown, Executive Director, Board of Counseling, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23233, telephone (804) 367-4488, FAX (804) 527-4435, or email evelyn.brown@dhp.virginia.gov.