Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Psychology intends to consider amending 18VAC125-20, Regulations Governing the Practice of Psychology. The purpose of the proposed action is to align regulations of the board with stated policy and ethics for the profession by (i) specifying in 18VAC125-20-150 that the standard of practice requiring licensed psychologists to "avoid harming patients or clients, research participants, students and others for whom they provide professional services and minimize harm when it is foreseeable and unavoidable," precludes conversion therapy and (ii) defining what comprises conversion therapy and what does not.

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 7, 2019.

Agency Contact: Jaime Hoyle, Executive Director, Board of Psychology, 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA 23233, telephone (804) 367-4406, FAX (804) 327-4435, or email jaime.hoyle@dhp.virginia.gov.