Embracing Progress: The Power of Incremental Change in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Originally published in winter 2024 in the Oregon Board of Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) work often feels like a struggle against systemic inertia. We dedicate countless hours to meetings and committees, sharing our pain, sorrow, and hope. Yet, the systemic changes we long for are often slow and incomplete. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge and celebrate moments of incremental progress.
In 2021, the Mental Health Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which oversees the Board of Psychology (OBOP) and the Board of Licensed Professional Counselors & Therapists (OBLPCT), was directed to conduct a diversity study. This study, outlined in Sections 91-93 of HB 5202 (2022), required a third-party consultant to analyze licensee demographics and develop strategies to increase diversity among mental health professionals.
In 2022, Keen Independent Research conducted the study through focus groups, interviews, and virtual workshops, engaging over 2,000 practitioners. This overwhelming participation reflected a collective commitment to fostering diversity and equity in Oregon’s mental health field.
The study's findings and recommendations provided actionable steps for MHRA, OBOP, and OBLPCT. Most notably, Keen recommended revising licensing requirements to reduce inequitable barriers. As a result, in December 2022, OBLPCT voted to:
Reduce supervised clinical experience hours by 500 hours.
Lower LMFT direct client contact requirements for couples, families, or groups by 250 hours.
Improve accessibility for applicants seeking licensure reciprocity from other states.
While this progress may not fulfill all aspirations discussed in DEI meetings, it represents meaningful systemic change driven by activism and dedication.
We extend our gratitude to those who championed HB 5202, the practitioners who participated despite overwhelming workloads, and everyone who contributed their feedback to advance equity in our field. These incremental changes, born of passion and persistence, are a step toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
