Regulation FAQ

Introduction | Resources | Frequently Asked Questions | Coalition Site

After years of preliminary effort and lobbying, Bill 171 containing the Psychotherapy Act, was introduced to the Legislature on December 12, 2006 and received royal assent on June 4, 2006 enacting it as law in Ontario.  

What is Regulation and why is it critical for YOU,  now?

Regulation is the result of provincial government legislation that creates a professional college, which ensures that the public will be informed about the profession, and has access to quality care from qualified professionals.   The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care introduced Bill 171 to the House on December 12, 2006.   

 

Why is OACCPP a member of the Ontario Coalition of Mental Health Professionals?

The Ontario Coalition of Mental Health Professionals is an umbrella organization whose members are professional associations in the field of mental health. The Coalition was formed in 2002 to address the issue of regulating counselling and psychotherapy in Ontario. OACCPP is the founding  member of the Coalition and has provided active leadership in its evolving identity as "The Coalition" that speaks with a single voice to represent a variety of currently unregulated mental health professions. 

When does the new Psychotherapy Act come into effect?

Bill 171, of which the Psychotherapy Act, 2007 was a part, received Royal Assent on June 4, 2007. Only Sections 1, 2 and 12 of the Act came into force at that time. They provide for the name of the new College; for incorporating the Health Professions Procedural Code into the Act; and for the transition period to set up the new College before the rest of the provisions come into force.

When will the new College of Psychotherapists and Registered Mental Health Therapists of Ontario be up and running?

It is impossible to predict how long the transition period will last; however, it can often take two years or more to set up a new regulatory body. During that time, the Transitional Council is responsible for setting standards for registration, processing applications, issuing certificates of registration, and setting application fees.

How is the Transitional Council chosen?

Members of the Transitional Council are appointed by the provincial government. There will be a public selection process conducted by the Public Appointments Secretariat. OACCPP, along with the Coalition, has encouraged qualified applicants from its member groups to submit applications.

Who will be regulated?

There will be two protected titles granted to registrants of the new College - Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Therapist. The Transitional Council will develop standards and criteria for determining which registrants are certified under each of these professional titles. OACCPP, along with the Coalition, has lobbied for an expansive approach to regulation that would include a broad range of mental health professionals.

Can I keep practicing legally using my current professional title?

Yes. Nothing will change during the period in which the Transitional Council is setting up the new College. You can continue to legally offer services under whatever professional title you are currently using. Even after you are registered as a Psychotherapist or a Registered Mental Health Therapist, you can continue to practice using your current professional title, provided it is not a title legally restricted to other practitioners under the Regulated Health Professions Act.

Will members of OACCPP automatically qualify for registration in the new College?

No. Registration will be conducted on an individual basis. Each mental health professional will be required to apply independently and meet the standards and criteria established by the Transitional Council.