What to do if you have concerns about your Psychologist

 

As AAPi is not a regulatory body, we do not have the authority to investigate complaints in relation to psychologists. Instead, we encourage you to follow the most appropriate steps below, should you have a complaint or concern about your practitioner.

Step 1

In most instances, the best first step is to speak to your psychologist or their practice (if applicable) about your concerns. Sometimes putting this in writing may make the communication process quicker and easier.

Step 2

If you do not feel comfortable communicating directly with your psychologist or psychology practice, and your psychologist is a member of AAPi, our team can pass on your feedback and concerns either anonymously or by including your details. If you have been referred by another health professional such as a GP, Paediatrician or Psychiatrist you can also discuss your concerns with them.

Step 3

If the above steps have been taken to no avail, or are not appropriate, there are more formal channels available to lodge complaints with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). Ahpra is responsible for the regulation and accreditation of psychologists in Australia.

If you are located in NSW or Queensland, refer here for the relevant contacts in your state to register concerns about a registered health practitioner.

For issues relating to a provider of NDIS services, please refer here.

Other useful resources

You can check the registration status of psychologists via the Ahpra website here.

You can also contact your local State or Territory health complaints commissioner, in relation to particular types of complaints.

ACT ACT Human Rights Commission

NSW Health Care Complaints Commission

NT Health and Community Services Complaints Commission

QLD Office of the Health Ombudsman

SA Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner

TAS Health Complaints Commissioner

VIC Health Complaints Commissioner

WA Health and Disability Services Complaints Office

 

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