Complaints & 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 Complaints Committee and the Discipline Committee. The National Registrar or Executive Director is the administrative channel through which the Complaints and Discipline Committees correspond and carry out their respective functions. The National Registrar or Executive Director do not make decisions or determinations involving professional standards matters but advises on required and appropriate procedures. This coordination involves communicating with all 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. 
 
 To submit a complaint, please follow the steps below:
 
1.FillFill out the CPCA Complaint Form
2.Refer Refer to the CPCA Code of Ethics and CPCA Standards of Practice to indicate the ethical breach being referenced in the complaint
3.PrintOnce the form is filled out on your computer, print the form
4.SignSign the form at the bottom of page 2 and 5.  Ensure your signature is witnessed and have witness also sign in the designated places
5.AddAdd all relevant information or documentation that support the complaint
6.ScanScan the Complaint Form and all documents with a printer/photocopier
7.EmailEmail to complaints@thecpca.ca










Please read the CPCA Complaints and Discipline Process & Timeline document for a better understanding of the process and timeline expectations.  Thank you! 

CPCA Complaints & Disciplinary Process Flowchart - April 2025

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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.  

The following are essential components of the CPCA Regulatory Framework: 

  1. Verified academic and experiential requirements to enter the profession
  2. Qualifying examination on counselling core competencies, code of ethics, and standards of practice required to practice in the profession
  3. 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
  4. Maintenance of current liability insurance, a clear criminal record, and vulnerable sector checks are required to remain in the profession
  5. Advanced training specific to providing clinical supervision supporting best practice in the profession 
  6. Voluntary compliance with comprehensive complaints and discipline process for the practice of the profession

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What is an approximate timeline to complete the CPCA Complaints and Discipline process?

The CPCA Targeted Timelines are as follows:

  • Screening/Dismissal: 60-90 days. (Time to determine if a complaint has merit).
  • Full Investigation: 3-6 months. (Standard for gathering evidence and committee review).
  • Adjudication/Hearing: 6-9 months. The industry standard is 9-12 months for the investigation stage alone. If a hearing is not required, because the evidence stands on its own merit, the timeline is closer to 3-4 months.

Please read the CPCA Complaints and Discipline Process & Timeline document more detail and a better understanding of the process and timeline expectations.  Thank you!