Professional Standards, Ethics, and Complaints Process

Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)

The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) is a national, bilingual organization dedicated to advancing the profession of counselling and psychotherapy and its vital role in promoting the mental health and well-being of all Canadians.

The CCPA works to raise awareness about the profession’s impact across healthcare, education, and various industries. By upholding the CCPA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, the association ensures the professional and ethical conduct of its members while embracing and supporting cultural diversity.

The CCPA has released the 2020 Code of Ethics and the 2021 Standards of Practice, which are now in effect.

Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT)

The Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapy (NSCCT) is the public-interest regulator for Registered Counselling Therapists (RCTs) and Registered Counselling Therapist Candidates (RCT-Cs) in Nova Scotia.

Visit NSCCT Website

NSCCT Complaints Process

NSCCT is mandated to accept, investigate, and adjudicate complaints against its registrants, which may be brought forward by:

  • A client
  • A fellow registrant
  • Another health professional
  • A member of the public
  • An organization or employer
  • The Executive Director/Registrar of the College

Please refer to the NSCCT Complaint Process Infographic.

What is a Complaint?
A complaint is an expression of concern regarding the conduct or actions of a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) or Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate (RCT-C). These concerns may relate to the care provided, the professional counselling relationship, or behavior expected of counselling therapists. Complaints often allege that the therapist did not meet the standards expected by the College, fellow professionals, or the public.

Complaints Committee
The Complaints Committee reviews allegations related to:

  • Professional misconduct
  • Incapacity
  • Incompetence
  • Conduct unbecoming the profession

Note: You are not required to determine which category your complaint falls under. This classification will be handled by the Registrar and/or the Chair of the Complaints Committee.

For additional information about the complaints process or to submit a complaint, visit the NSCCT website.