The College’s Role in Upholding Ethical and Professional Practice

As the regulatory body for almost 24,000 social workers and social service workers in Ontario, the College’s primary mandate is to protect the public interest. One of the ways the College fulfills this public protection mandate is by providing practice-related guidance and resources to support members in practising ethically and professionally. As noted in its 2020-2023 Strategic Plan, the College is committed to upholding ethical and professional practice. The College provides educational resources to support…

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Can College Members Call Themselves “Psychotherapists”?

Members of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers may perform the controlled act of psychotherapy AND use the title “psychotherapist,” provided they do so in compliance with the Social Work and Social Service Work Act (SWSSWA), the regulations and the bylaws. A provision of the SWSSWA (s. 47.2) permits College members authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy to use the title “psychotherapist” if the member complies with the following…

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What Does It Mean to be a Member “In Good Standing?

Registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers demonstrates a commitment to professional, ethical, qualified and accountable practice. Social work and social service work members of the College: have met specific registration requirements;follow a code of ethics and standards of practice;engage in ongoing learning through the College’s Continuing Competence Program (CCP); andare accountable through the College’s rigorous complaints and discipline processes. “In good standing” is a term that generally refers only…

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Practice Notes – To Report or Not to Report: When That Is the Question

Practice Notes is an educational tool designed to help Ontario social workers, social service workers, employers and members of the public gain a better understanding of recurring issues dealt with by the Professional Practice Department and the Complaints Committee that may affect everyday practice. The notes offer general guidance only and College members with specific practice inquiries should consult the College, since the relevant standards and appropriate course of action will vary depending on the…

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The College Introduces Online Complaint Form

This spring the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers was pleased to launch its online complaint form. The new online complaint form is part of the College’s strategic priority to enhance regulatory effectiveness and improve accessibility and efficiency for stakeholders. The new form allows members of the public to submit complaints directly through the College website and includes an introductory decision tree to assist potential complainants in navigating the complaints process. “The…

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Take the NEW College Knowledge Quiz!

The College invites employers of social workers and social service workers to take its recently updated College Knowledge Quiz! Learn more about the College, its public protection mandate and the many benefits of hiring registered social workers and registered social service workers. Learn more.

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