HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 8

(By Delegates Perdue, Fleischauer, D. Campbell, Moye, Phillips, Rodighiero, Perry, Lawrence, Staggers, Marshall, Barill, Ferns, Poore, Border, Andes, Rowan and Pasdon)

[Introduced January 20, 2011.]

Designating January 20, 2011 as “Professional Counselor’s Day”.

    Whereas, Professional counselors are dedicated to the successful functioning of American Society; and

    Whereas, Professional counselors are distinct professionals with both national and state standards of preparation, certification and credentialing; and

    Whereas, There are both state and national professional associations dedicated to advancing the scientific, educational and philosophical foundations of the counseling profession and its members; and

    Whereas, There is evidence that counseling services help to address mental illnesses and alleviate and prevent both acute and transitional human development challenges; and

    Whereas, Professional counselors are highly skilled individuals who provide flexible consumer oriented therapy; and

    Whereas, Professional counselors utilize assessment techniques and tools that provide a practical, problem solving approach that creates a dynamic and efficient path for change and problem resolution; and

    Whereas, Professional counselors are committed to the prevention, enhancement and the facilitation of optimum wellness; and

    Whereas, Professional counselors work in a variety of settings, including independent practice, community agencies, hospitals, employee assistance programs, military, government and educational institutions to provide resources and guidance that promotes wellness; and

    Whereas, Professional counselors dedicate themselves to excellence in the profession of mental health counseling through licensing, advocacy, education, and professional development; and

    Whereas, We honor and appreciate the outstanding dedication of professional counselors for their caring, commitment and making a difference in the lives of others; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the House of Delegates:

    That the House of Delegates hereby designates January 20th, 2011, as “Professional Counselor’s Day”: and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the House of Delegates recognizes professional counselors and their commitment and dedication to individuals, families, and communities everywhere through prevention, enhancement and the facilitation of optimum well being; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the House of Delegates calls upon all citizens to join with the West Virginia Licensed Professional Counselors Association, along with other professional counseling organizations, in celebration and support of professional counselors and their profession; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates forward a certified copy of this resolution to the appropriate officials representing professional counselors.