Supervision
From the outset of our careers through retirement, no matter how well-prepared we are by our degree programs and no matter how experienced and capable we become over the course of our careers, psychologists are the state’s only master’s-level practitioners denied the right to practice independently.
North Carolina imposes no such restrictions on other master’s-level mental health clinicians. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Pastoral Counselors (PCs), Certified Clinical Specialists in Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing (RNCSs), and Certified Substance Abuse Professionals (CSAPs) are free to serve the individuals and families who need them.
Only master’s-level psychologists are singled out for ongoing supervision for the duration of our careers. As a consequence—
- Master’s-level psychologists and our employers must charge higher fees for our services to cover the added costs of supervision.
- Insurers exclude master’s-level psychologists from provider panels, denying reimbursements to people who want and need our services. Other master’s level practitioners providing similar services in our state are included on provider panels and do qualify for reimbursements because of their independent status.
- Despite our clinical skills and qualifications, practice owners, program directors and other employers are understandably reluctant to hire us because of the problems with reimbursements and the added costs in time and money imposed by our supervision.
- Fewer students are applying for master’s degree programs in psychology, perhaps opting instead for master’s programs in nursing, social work and counseling. If the trend continues, the supply of qualified psychologists will be reduced and ultimately, will disappear.
- We feel embarrassed and diminished as professionals alongside other master’s-level practitioners who are free to practice independently, once they complete their degrees and licensure requirements.