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The question was submitted 24/10/2007

Subject: Reporting a Psychiatrist?

Hi - I have recently been to see a psychiatrist who verbally abused me and belittled me, telling me my fathers sexual abuse was the only way he knew how to love me amongst various other things...I have discussed all of this with my psychologist, who was very surprised as he was meant to be doing a simple medication review, she also suggted his conduct was totally inappropriate and I should report him - but I was wondering how to go about this and what would happen to him if I did?
I cannot confront him about this as he terrifies me now and has sent me back on the downward spiral I was just coming up from, but I want to let him know I'm standing up for myself somehow.
Thanks for your time

Answer from DepNet

Dear Reporting a Psychiatrist,

There are a number of options but if you live in Australia or NZ the 2 major ones are:

1. Make a complaint to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists at
309 La Trobe Street, Melbourne Vic 3000 Australia
Tel + 03 9640 0646
Toll free 1800 337 448 (for Australian residents)
Toll free 0800 443 827 (for New Zealand residents)
Fax + 03 9642 5652
Email ranzcp@ranzcp.org

Or

2. Make a complaint to the Medical Board in your State (Contact details in your telephone book).

If you live outside Aus/NZ there will be a Government body regulating medical practice in your Country and your complaint should be directed to them.

The consequences for the psychiatrist concerned are usually determined by a panel appointed by the body investigating your complaint and in my experience the consequences are usually appropriate.

The answer was published on DepNet 26/10/2007