The following real-life situations offer a glimpse into recent decisions of the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC), highlighting the role communication plays in professional practice.
These summaries are provided for educational purposes. Details have been adjusted to protect the privacy of both registrants and complainants and maintain confidentiality of the investigation process. The core issues and outcomes remain the same.
Communication in the workplace
Decision: Advice
A therapist providing non-supervised services in a registrant’s clinic raised multiple concerns about the clinic’s work environment, including an incident during a staff meeting where the registrant swore at her.
When asked to respond, the registrant acknowledged the incident and expressed regret and noted that the therapist herself used expletives in communications with clinic staff.
The outcome? The panel of the ICRC decided to provide the registrant with Advice regarding professional communications. While the panel noted that both the registrant and the therapist appeared comfortable with informal language, it was advisable that communication with employees always remain professional.
Communication with a client
Decision: Undertakings
In another case, a client described their therapy experience as, among other things, combative and insensitive.
Upon review of the information available, the panel believed that the registrant’s approach appeared to lack sensitivity, empathy and respect at times.
The outcome? Due to concerns with professionalism, as well as concerns identified in other areas, the panel asked the registrant to complete a coaching program to address and strengthen their professional and interpersonal approach.
