The regulations developed under the Psychotherapy Act, 2007, and the Professional Practice Standards for Registered Psychotherapists provide the framework for regulating CRPO members. Regulations and standards are enforceable in law. Many professional practice standards are unwritten; they are the standards that are commonly understood and accepted by members of the profession.
The College relies on the framework of law, regulations and standards in a number of ways, for example:
- To determine whether an applicant is qualified to become registered with CRPO.
- To assess whether a member is meeting their professional obligations and maintaining their knowledge, skill and judgment.
- To address complaints made against a member.
Where there are concerns about a candidate’s application or a member’s practise, conduct or competence, the College relies on committee panels to determine the issues and outcomes. Panels are made up of fellow members of the profession in addition to members of the public. They are familiar with relevant laws, regulations, standards and professional practice. They also have special training in carrying out panel proceedings, which may include review of relevant materials, deliberation and hearings, in a manner that is fair and impartial.