Board of Examiners of Psychologists: composition, authority, and disciplinary processes
Board composition, authority, and discipline
This domain tests who governs psychology in Maryland and how complaints move from investigation to sanction. The Board is a regulatory body, not a professional association.
Core rules
- The Board has seven members: five licensed psychologists and two consumer members, appointed by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. Members serve staggered terms.
- Authority includes licensing, renewal, rulemaking, investigating complaints, subpoenaing records and witnesses, issuing cease-and-desist orders, and imposing discipline.
- Discipline may include reprimand, probation, suspension, revocation, civil penalties, and required remediation. The Board may suspend a license immediately if there is an imminent risk to the public.
- A contested case follows the Maryland Administrative Procedure Act: notice, opportunity to be heard, counsel, evidence, and a written decision. Final agency action may be appealed to circuit court.
Worked example
A client complains that a psychologist disclosed information without consent. The Board investigates, files charges, and offers a hearing. The psychologist may present consent forms and treatment records. If the Board finds a violation, it must explain the sanction and the factual basis; the psychologist can seek judicial review.
Traps
Do not confuse the Board with a court or ethics committee. The Board can act on unprofessional conduct even without a criminal conviction. Confidentiality of the complaint process does not mean the licensee may ignore the Board.