How does the process work?

The National Register does not initiate or independently investigate complaints against Registrants; rather, any action by the Committee on Professional Practice and Ethics (COPPE) is based upon documentation received from the investigation and adjudication by outside organizations, such as stat/provincial psychology boards and associations, governmental bodies, and courts. Only when a question is raised concerning the possibility of "any significant misrepresentation in connection with his/her application for listing" does the National Register conduct its own investigation.

Step 1: COPPE obtains available information and determines whether the reported matter warrants further review.

Step 2: COPPE advises the applicant/Registrant in writing of the reason(s) for the possible imposition of sanctions. The applicant/Registrant will then have thirty days in which to submit in writing any information he/she desires and to request the right to appear before COPPE. If the Registrant/applicant does not respond within thirty days, COPPE shall proceed to decide the matter on the basis of the information available.

Step 3: The applicant/Registrant shall authorize COPPE to obtain information concerning the matter from all appropriate persons and agencies.

Step 4: After reviewing all available information, COPPE shall decide the matter, decide on the appropriate sanction, if any, and advise the Respondent of its decision and the basis for the decision.