Evidence Before Entry: Evaluating the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario’s Regulation Modernization Proposals

This paper critically examines the proposed regulatory changes by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO), which seek to modernize entry-to-practice standards for psychologists and psychological associates in the province. The analysis places Ontario’s changing regulatory environment within the broader Canadian context, comparing provincial standards, training pathways, and workforce availability. Using empirical data, stakeholder feedback, and consensus reports, this manuscript examines evidence to test three implied hypotheses of the proposed changes: 1) they will increase the number of psychologists in Ontario, 2) they will improve access to psychological services, and 3) they will not elevate the risk to public safety as practitioner competence will remain the same. Findings suggest that lowering entry standards and shifting from external accreditation to a college-approved process are unlikely to significantly increase access to psychologists. Evidence does not support the view that competence will remain unchanged among trainees from programs that substantially deviate from accredited models. Removing evaluative regulations may allow some less-prepared individuals into practice. An evidence-based, data-driven approach grounded in transparent consultation and continuous evaluation is recommended to ensure that regulatory changes genuinely improve access to competent psychological care across both Ontario and Canada.