Response from School Psychologist

Response from School Psychologist

Sample 1 (excerpted from M. Hafer)

As a certified school psychologist, practicing since (date) in a public school systemin New York, I vehemently oppose the proposed MLA's attempt to remove the exemption for non-doctoral school psychologists. If my state were to adopt theproposal as written, most public schools would immediately be "out of compliance" with state regulations because approximately 75% of the school psychologists certified in NY are non-doctoral. Based on the MLA's definition of the "practice of psychology," which includes much of what I do every day in my job, I would no longer be able to practice. This is absurd. Your flawed proposal would create a bureaucratic nightmare with devastating fiscal implications, that would result in loss of needed service to our students and the communities we serve. The exemption has worked well in the past, allowing many children to receive services who most certainly would not receive them. It seems to me that, once again, the APA is denigrating my profession and proposing a model that chooses "turf" issues over best practices. I suggest that you reconsider continuing the exemption for non-doctoral school psychologists.

Sample 2 (excerpted from C.Reynolds & J. Cummings)

The exemption for non-doctoral school psychologist should be reinstated.Children are already an underserved population with respect to mental health needs, and the proposed changes to the MLA will result in fewer competent clinicians being available to meet the needs of the children and youth they now serve. Inclusion of this exemption has been supported by all of the major professional organizations and associations that govern school psychology. The School Psychology Specialty Council (SPSC) sent a request that the exemption not be changed as it relates to school psychology. This council has representatives from all major groups in school psychology including APA Division 16, NASP, the Society for the Study of School Psychology, Trainers of School Psychologists, Council of Directors of Doctoral Programs in School Psychology, and the American Board of School Psychology. This request was sent after a thorough discussion of the issues involved along with a request that the profession of school psychology be given time to review the issues in depth and attempt to reach a consensus on the issues involved. I request that you restore the exemption to its current language and allow the profession of school psychology to deal with this issue.