Filing a complaint

You must file a complaint in the jurisdiction where your psychologist is licensed, and the filing process may vary by jurisdiction. Begin by reviewing the specific procedures for the applicable jurisdiction.

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The filing process

Depending on the jurisdiction, you may be asked to file a complaint form, send an email, or write a letter to the licensing board. Some licensing boards will not accept or act on anonymous complaint letters. Common requirements for your communication include:

  • Your name, address, and telephone number
  • The name, address, and telephone number of your psychologist
  • A description of your complaint
  • Copies of any available documentation (e.g., photos, letters, bills, receipts, cancelled checks)
  • The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of witnesses, if any

Although the process of filing a complaint can be difficult and lengthy, you may be helping to protect future patients from similar misconduct if you see the process through.

Confidentiality

Jurisdictions apply a variety of procedures for identifying patients in public documents, and hearings in some jurisdictions may be open to the public. Laws in other jurisdictions may require the licensing board to keep your identity confidential. If you have concerns about confidentiality, you should discuss them with the licensing board and its investigator at the beginning of the process.