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Should I make a complaint?The Psychologists Registration Board is governed by legislation which limits the areas of complaints it may investigate and can only deal with matters of complaints concerning a psychologist’s practice as a Psychologist.
The Board is unable to investigate complaints concerning a psychologist’s personal behaviour or domestic lifestyle or matters of a strictly commercial nature unless such actions impinge on the practice of psychology.
Before making a formal complaint it is suggested that you discuss the issue which is concerning you with the psychologist involved in an attempt to resolve the situation.If you;
- Are dissatisfied with the response from the psychologist;
- Are unable to contact the psychologist;
- Feel it is not appropriate to contact the psychologist;
then you should lodge a complaint with the Psychologists Registration Board.
Who can make a complaint?
Any person can make a complaint regarding the professional practice of a psychologist.
Do I have to give my name?
Yes. However if you feel worried about releasing your name then you should talk to the Registrar about alternative options.
Against whom may complaints be made?
The Board only has the power to investigate complaints against registered or formerly registered psychologists or those holding themselves out to be registered psychologists.
How can a complaint be made?
All complaints are required to be made in writing under the Psychologists Registration Act 2000. You can download a copy of the complaints form here. If you are having difficulty in writing a complaint, you should contact the office of the Psychologists Registration Board for assistance.
What needs to be contained in a complaint?
A complaint needs to contain the following information:
Particulars of the matter complained about;
The name of the psychologist about whom the complaint is being made;
Where the complaint happened;
Who is making the complaint.
Who is informed of the complaint?
The Psychologists Registration Board is required to notify the Health Complaints Commissioner of any complaint which it receives from the public. The psychologist concerned will also be notified of the complaint.
What happens to the complaint?
The seriousness of the complaint determines what happens next to the complaint. Complaints can either be heard through informal or formal disciplinary procedures. In any event both parties are given the opportunity to provide any relevant information to the Board or Committee.