decisions; and
WHEREAS, Licensed professional counselors make up a large
percentage of the workforce employed in community mental health
centers, hospitals, outpatient facilities, residential
facilities, drug and alcohol treatment facilities, schools,
colleges and universities and insurers; and
WHEREAS, Licensed professional counselors work with active
military personnel and veterans and their families; and
WHEREAS, Licensed professional counselors assist in the
coordination of medical and mental health services and treatment
of severe mental illnesses; and
WHEREAS, Licensed professional counselors are committed to
providing access to quality mental health services across all
cultures and at all stages of life; and
WHEREAS, Licensed professional counselors endeavor to enhance
the quality of life in society by promoting respect for human
dignity; and
WHEREAS, According to the United States Bureau of Labor
Statistics, between 2016 and 2026, the need for counselors is
expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations as
the demand for addiction and mental health services increases;
and
WHEREAS, As the need for mental health, substance abuse,
school-related and rehabilitative services increases, there will
not be enough professional counselors or other related
disciplines to meet the needs of their clients; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives designate the
month of April 2018 as "Professional Counselor Awareness Month"
in Pennsylvania and call upon all citizens to join with the
American Counseling Association, Pennsylvania Chapter, to
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