Anti-Harassment and Respectful Conduct Policy
1. Purpose
EmotionMatters Psychology is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all clients, staff, students, and visitors. Harassment, abuse, discrimination, or intimidation of any kind will not be tolerated. For the purposes of this policy, “staff” refers to all individuals engaged by the clinic in any capacity, including independent contractors such as therapists, administrative personnel, and any other service providers working under contract.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals interacting with the clinic, including clients, family members, staff, students, and visitors virtually or by phone/email.
3. Definition of Harassment
Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act, harassment includes:
- Unwelcome comments or conduct based on race, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, etc.
- Bullying, intimidation, yelling, threats, or inappropriate language.
- Unreasonable behaviour that creates a hostile or unsafe environment.
4. Client Expectations
Clients are expected to:
- Treat staff with dignity and respect.
- Communicate in a civil and non-threatening manner.
- Refrain from discriminatory, abusive, or inappropriate behaviour.
5. Clinic Response to Harassment
If a client engages in harassing or abusive behaviour, staff may issue a verbal or written warning, or end the interaction immediately. The incident will be documented and reviewed by clinical leadership.
The clinic reserves the right to:
- Temporarily suspend services;
- Transfer the client to another provider;
- Discontinue care, except in situations where immediate treatment is required (e.g., emergencies).
When care is discontinued, a referral to alternate services may be provided, where possible.
6. Staff Safety
All staff have the right to work in an environment free of harassment. Any staff member experiencing or witnessing harassment is encouraged to report the incident to clinical leadership immediately. Reports will be treated confidentially and investigated in line with clinic procedures.
7. Legal Rights
This policy is grounded in:
Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC)
Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA)
College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario Professional Standards
8. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as required to reflect best practices and changes in legislation.
EmotionMatters Psychology 