News

Proclamation of the Psychology and Applied Behaviour Analysis Act, 2021

[TORONTO, June 27, 2024] – On July 1, 2024, the province of Ontario will have reached a significant milestone as the Psychology and Applied Behaviour Analysis Act, 2021 is proclaimed into law. The Act signifies a culmination of efforts towards ensuring greater access to ABA services and the assurance of safe, quality care for the public. The proclamation of the Psychology and Applied Behaviour Analysis Act, 2021 reflects years of collaboration between the College of Psychologists of Ontario, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.

Starting on July 1, 2024, Behaviour Analysts in the province will be accountable to the public, through their regulatory College, for their professional behaviour and activities. Behaviour Analysts will have to meet rigorous professional entry requirements, adhere to prescribed standards, guidelines and ethical principles and participate in quality assurance activities to continually update and improve their knowledge and skill.  In the interest of public protection, the Act establishes a robust mechanism for receiving and addressing complaints against Behaviour Analysts, with provisions for disciplinary action in cases of misconduct or malpractice.

The College of Psychologists of Ontario currently regulates Ontario’s more than 4,000 Psychologists and Psychological Associates and looks forward to welcoming Behaviour Analysts to what will become the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario. 

For further information, please visit the ABA Portal on the College’s website.

Further enquiries should be directed to aba@cpbao.ca.


“With Ontario’s Psychology and Applied Behaviour Analysis Act coming into force on July 1, families will now have more peace of mind that their children are receiving safe and quality care.”

— Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services

“Our government is taking action to connect more people to convenient, high-quality care, no matter where they live. We recognize the important role Behaviour Analysts play in Ontario’s health care system and by implementing their regulation, our government is continuing to provide patients with confidence that they are receiving care from highly skilled, qualified and ethical health professionals.”

— Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health