This petition is in support of recognizing LPCs (Licensed Professional Counselors) as qualified behavioral health providers with Medicaid.  

In June 2019, it became public that Medicaid was no longer recognizing LPCs as billable providers if they worked for a FQHC (Federally Qualified Health Center). No explanation was provided for this change and requests for an explanation continue to be ignored. This change will result in 15 LPCs in just one agency being laid off.  This will also result in 19 schools across Livingston, Tangipahoa, and East Feliciana, as well as one community health clinic in Tangipahoa Parish to suddenly have no behavioral health services. Certain parishes do not employ guidance counselors and fully rely on non-profit agencies to provide behavioral health services. By a quick estimate, this will abruptly extinguish counseling services for at least 1600 children and 150 adults (that’s estimating 60 regular students per provider at each school/clinic).  These estimates are for one agency alone. There is no telling how many more LPCs will be without work and how many other individuals will lose access to behavioral health services across the state as a result of this decision.

LPCs are recognized by the State of Louisiana and across the nation as qualified mental health professionals.  In the state of Louisiana, in order to be an LPC you have to obtain a Master’s Degree, undergo three years of clinical supervision, and pass a licensing exam. This is the exact same process as social workers, who remain “qualified”, and therefore billable, mental health providers by Medicaid.

I can’t express how terrifying and heart-breaking the results of this decision, if left undone, will inevitably bring.  It is an injustice to these highly qualified advocates, to our students, and to our communities.  If you agree, I would ask that you please take just a moment to share and sign this petition. 

PCPFHF Petition