Department of Health Professions (DHP): Psychology, Counseling and Social Work boards; Medicine Board for behavior analysts

How the official source says to file

• File online from DHP’s complaint page or use the paper form. Reports may also be made by telephone at 800-533-1560 or 804-367-4691. Paper submissions may be emailed to enfcomplaints@dhp.virginia.gov, faxed to 804-212-2174, or mailed/delivered to 9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Henrico, VA 23233-1463.
• Identify the professional, credential, patient’s full name and date of birth, treatment dates and places, witnesses, harm and other agency reports. Describe specific acts or omissions and include useful supporting copies. The paper form includes a signed and dated truth affirmation.
• Keep your own copy before filing: DHP says it cannot later supply a copy of your submitted complaint. Ask about patient/representative authority and the records request process before supplying another person’s therapy records.

Supporting guidance: DHP filing instructions ↗DHP complaint form ↗

What this route may not provide

DHP cannot require repayment or provide personal remedies. It regulates individual professionals; mental-health/substance-use programs are separately regulated by Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Psychiatrist and psychiatric advanced-practice-nurse concerns should use the medical and nursing guides. Verify the credential behind a therapy or coaching title.

Supporting guidance: DHP Enforcement overview ↗DHP complaint form ↗

Do not guess about confidentiality

Anonymous reports are accepted. To remain anonymous, omit identifying information from the form, envelope, email and attachments; investigation may be limited. The form warns that supplied information may be shared with the practitioner and anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Investigation confidentiality does not make disciplinary hearings or public orders private.

Supporting guidance: DHP filing instructions ↗DHP complaint form ↗Enforcement FAQs ↗

Ask promptly; completion time varies

A filing deadline was not established by this check. DHP describes variable investigation times, not a guaranteed completion date. Respond to requests for details and preserve relevant records.

Supporting guidance: Enforcement FAQs ↗

What may happen after filing

DHP evaluates jurisdiction and evidence, investigates where appropriate and sends cases for board review. You may be asked to testify; formal and informal hearings are generally public. DHP sends notices at review/outcome stages. Once reported, a complaint cannot be withdrawn.

Supporting guidance: DHP filing instructions ↗Enforcement FAQs ↗

Prepare a reviewable submission

State the concern you want reviewed, give a short chronology and factual consequences, and explain your request. Keep supporting records and follow the receiving authority’s instructions before attaching or sending them.