COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

When a complaint is registered against a licensed professional counselor in the State of North Dakota, the NDBCE follows a process consistent with the North Dakota Century Code. The following introduction to the complaint process is for informational purposes. (For a detailed review of the complaint process and the administrative hearing process, consult N.D.C.C. ch. 28-32, N.D.C.C. ch. 43-47, and N.D. Admin. Code Title 98).

To File A Complaint:

Contact the NDBCE office or a Board member.
To be considered by the Board, the complaint must be made on a "formal" basis, utilizing complaint forms available from the Board office, and the complaint must be signed.
If the individual is unwilling to sign the formal complaint, he/she may consult with a Board member, and the Board member may then decide to file the complaint with the concurrence of the Board.

If it is found that the complaint is against an individual who is not a licensed counselor, the NDBCE has no jurisdiction, and the complaintant is informed that he/she should refer the matter to the State's Attorney or other appropriate licensing agency.

If the complaint is deemed justified, the NDBCE will conduct an investigation of the complaint and inform the complaintant and the licensed counselor of the results.