Step 1: Fill out the form

Fill out the CPCA Complaint Form(https://1f85ea19-4005-4069-8494-22377b89de68.filesusr.com/ugd/24d57f_394ef78900a84c69ac59b5327488f948.pdf)

Step 2: Refer to the Code of Ethics

Refer to the CPCA Code of Ethics (https://1f85ea19-4005-4069-8494-22377b89de68.filesusr.com/ugd/24d57f_d98ebc5f573b49309d8e4e9097b39af1.pdf)and CPCA Standards of Practice (https://1f85ea19-4005-4069-8494-22377b89de68.filesusr.com/ugd/24d57f_7f43bf42fd6d4d4795ff2e888d9a6afd.pdf)to indicate the ethical breach being referenced in the complaint

Step 3: Print the Complaints Form

Once the form is filled out on your computer, print the form.

Step 4: Sign the form

Sign the form at the bottom of page 2 and 5. Ensure your signature is witnessed and have witness also sign in the designated places.

Step 5: Add all Relevant Information

Add all relevant information or documentation that support the complaint.

Step 6: Scan the form

Scan the Complaint Form and all documents with a printer/photocopier.

Step 7: Email the completed form

Email to complaints@thecpca.ca(mailto:complaints@thecpca.ca)

Complaints and Discipline

As a nationally recognized and registered non-profit organization with the privilege and service of self-regulation, the CPCA accepts the responsibility of protecting the public as we promote and support competency in clinical counselling and psychotherapy.

The CPCA maintains two Standing Committees to provide an ethical process of reviewing all complaints received in writing. The National Registrar or Executive Director in Head Office is the administrative channel through which the Complaints and Discipline Committees correspond and carry out their respective functions. The National Registrar or Executive Director does not make decisions or determinations involving professional standards matters but advises on required and appropriate procedures. This coordination involves communicating with all the people involved in a disciplinary matter, rendering necessary assistance to the parties, providing required forms, and sending and receiving all correspondence and notices.

At the first stage, the Complaints Committee is charged with the preliminary evaluation and assessment of whether a complaint should be dismissed because it is not within the jurisdiction of the CPCA, or whether it merits further action.

At the second stage, where the matter is referred to the Discipline Committee, this committee has the authority to conduct a hearing to determine if the Respondent is guilty of conduct as set out in the complaint and to if guilty, to discipline the Respondent. The Discipline Committee is familiar with the principles of due process and ensures that it is followed in hearings. In addition to ensuring due process in any disciplinary matter, the Discipline Committee serves the important function of disciplining and educating offenders.

There is no fee to file a complaint with the CPCA, and there is no time limit. If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone about filing a complaint, you make contact the Registrar by emailing registrar@thecpca.ca

Filing a Complaint

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The Mandate of the Association

To foster public protection by regulating its members’ professional practice through a comprehensive Code of Ethics, competency-based assessment, ongoing evaluation, and clear expectation of compliance with professional Standards of Practice.

To promote and support members to develop excellence in professional skills for competent clinical counselling/psychotherapy.

The Association's leadership has shown that it will distinguish between the public interest and the professionals’ self-interest and in self-regulating will favor the former.

CPCA Regulatory Framework

The CPCA has an established regulatory framework for its members that is built on the foundations of competency and compliance in both certification and discipline to support best practice by registrants and the protection of the public.

Verified academic and experiential requirements to enter the profession
Qualifying examination on counselling core competencies, code of ethics and standards of practice required to practice in the profession
Confirmed completion and submission of mandatory annual requirements in continuing education and clinical supervision for maintaining and expanding competence in the practice of the profession
Maintenance of current liability insurance and clear criminal record and vulnerable sector checks required to remain in the profession
Advanced training specific to providing clinical supervision supporting best practice in the profession
Voluntary compliance with comprehensive complaints and discipline process for the practice of the profession

Complaint Process Infographic