Wag the Dog: Professional Associations, Regulatory Bodies, and the Public Interest

Regulators and Associations have complicated relationships. They work together in many instances, but in others have divergent goals and interests. Historically, many regulators and professional associations have operated within the same institution. In some jurisdictions and professions, they still do. At the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario, the regulator and associations have an arms-length relationship. However, the associations are strong, and association members have often followed a "career path" from association to College Board Member. This has had some significant implications for the College as it navigates registration and other modernization strategies, with significant association opposition. Through storytelling and audience participation, CPBAO staff members will share their experiences and lesson learned in managing this complex relationship while pursuing regulatory change.

The session concludes with an off-the-record (i.e., not being recorded) Q&A and open discussion, offering attendees a candid forum to ask questions and exchange ideas.

Learning Objectives: 

• Understand the historical and contemporary dynamics between professional associations and regulatory bodies
• Identify challenges and opportunities in managing regulatory change in the context of strong professional association influence
• Apply insights and strategies from the CPBAO's experience to effectively navigate complex stakeholder relationships

Speakers:
Zimra Yetnikoff, Deputy Registrar/Director, Investigations & Hearings, College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario

Tony DeBono, Registrar & CEO, College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario