The Issues
The Value and Viability of LPAs’ Services
We believe master’s-level training in psychology uniquely qualifies professionals who complete the degree requirements to provide valuable, much-needed services in accessible, cost-efficient ways.
Access to Services Provided by LPAs
Regardless of their financial means, geographic location or their cultural, ethnic or socioeconomic backgrounds, we believe North Carolinians who need the services of a qualified, licensed psychologist should have ready access to those services from their chosen practitioner.
Supervision
After completing the first several years of practice under appropriate supervision, we believe psychologists who have master’s degrees in psychology should be free to practice independently. We believe the provisions of the North Carolina Psychology Practice Act requiring continued, career-long supervision of Licensed Psychological Associates should be amended.
Cost Containment
We believe North Carolina’s current system requiring supervision of LPAs wastes time and money, resulting in higher costs for much-needed care. We advocate eliminating unnecessary supervision to eliminate this wasteful spending.
Insurance Reimbursements
We believe insurance carriers should reimburse equitably for services provided by LPAs.
Continuing Education
We support continuing education requirements for all professional practitioners. We believe all practicing psychologists should engage in required continuing education programs for the duration of their careers.
Professional Ethics
We believe all practicing psychologists should adhere strictly to our professional code of ethics, which requires LPAs to perform only those functions for which we have adequate training and experience.
We believe the provisions of the APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct as incorporated in the North Carolina Psychology Practice Act to be sufficient for ensuring the safety and well being of the citizens of North Carolina who need our services.