What does "Complainant" mean in the context of the licensed professional counseling process?

In the context of the licensed professional counseling process, "Complainant" refers specifically to a person who files a Request for Inquiry. This term is essential in understanding the dynamics of how complaints or concerns about a licensed professional counselor are addressed within the regulatory framework.

When a complainant identifies a potential issue regarding a counselor's practice, they initiate the process by submitting a formal Request for Inquiry. This step is crucial as it sets into motion the investigation and evaluation of the counselor’s professional conduct. The term emphasizes the active role of an individual who believes there has been a violation of ethical or legal standards.

The other roles, such as someone applying for licensure or a licensed professional counselor themselves, do not fulfill the definition of a complainant, as they do not engage in the process of filing a formal complaint. Similarly, a member of the Board plays a separate regulatory role and is not acting as a complainant when overseeing or responding to inquiries about professional conduct. Understanding this definition is vital for adhering to the ethical and legal standards required in professional counseling practice.