We act in the public interest by ensuring that our Registrants maintain an active license and adhere to ethical standards.

Committee on Professional Practice and Ethics

The National Register does not initiate, independently investigate, or adjudicate complaints against Registrants. 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 state/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 or action. Registrants may be sanctioned for failing to meet credentialing criteria, professional misconduct, serious crimes, malpractice, or professional incapacitation.

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.

Guidelines for Credential Withdrawal

Bylaws (PDF)