In a striking blow to professional standards in Ontario’s mental health sector, a London-based psychologist has been stripped of his license following multiple documented cases of serious misconduct. The College of Psychologists of Ontario reached its decision after investigating three separate incidents that demonstrated a concerning pattern of ethical violations and professional negligence.
Dr. James Harrington, who maintained a private practice in London for over 15 years, has been permanently barred from practicing psychology in the province after a disciplinary panel determined his actions “fundamentally breached the trust between practitioner and patient.” The investigation, which spanned 18 months, revealed troubling details about boundary violations, improper therapeutic techniques, and failure to maintain adequate clinical records.
“The evidence presented left us with no alternative but to revoke Dr. Harrington’s certificate of registration,” said Dr. Mira Krishnan, Chair of the Disciplinary Committee at the College. “The severity and repeated nature of these violations demonstrates a profound failure to uphold the ethical standards our profession demands.”
According to documents published on the College’s website, the first incident involved inappropriate dual relationships with a vulnerable client, where Harrington allegedly engaged in social activities outside of therapy sessions, creating a significant boundary violation. The second case centered on implementing experimental therapy techniques without proper informed consent, while the third involved serious documentation deficiencies that compromised patient care.
Patient advocacy groups have responded with approval to the College’s decision. “When Ontarians seek psychological help, they deserve care that meets the highest professional and ethical standards,” said Elizabeth Wong, director of the Canadian Mental Health Patient Alliance. “This decision sends a clear message that misconduct will not be tolerated in this vital healthcare field.”
Statistics from the College of Psychologists of Ontario show that license revocations remain relatively rare, with only seven psychologists losing their certification in the past decade. However, complaints against mental health practitioners have risen by approximately 23% since 2020, according to regulatory reporting data.
Dr. Harrington has 30 days to appeal the decision, though sources close to the case indicate he has made no moves to contest the ruling. His former patients have been directed to resources for finding new care providers, and the College has implemented additional monitoring measures for the transfer of patient files.
The case has prompted renewed discussions about oversight in mental health professions across Canada’s regulatory landscape. Several provincial regulatory bodies have announced plans to review their disciplinary procedures in light of this and similar cases that have emerged in recent years.
As mental health services continue to be in high demand across Ontario, how can regulatory bodies balance the need for accessible care with rigorous professional standards that protect vulnerable patients seeking psychological support?
