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We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the policies of the Washington School of Psychiatry as written below and the most current Bulletin (AY 2021-2022). School-wide policies and procedures communicate our expectations of WSP community members and rules for the operation, organization, and programming of the School, including policy relating to students.
Notes: Individual programs and centers may have additional policies. Such policies, however, do not override school-wide policies.
WSP reserves the right to make changes at any time to reflect changes in federal or state law, school policy and procedures, rules of the WSP Board of Directors, and fee changes. Information is subject to such changes without prior notice and does not constitute a contract between the School and its students, volunteers, contractors, and staff.
The Washington School of Psychiatry is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor
continuing education for psychologists. The Washington School of Psychiatry maintains responsibility
for its programs and its contents.
American Psychological Association
Office of Continuing Education Sponsor Approval
750 First St. NE, Washington, DC 20002-42422
The Washington School of Psychiatry is authorized by the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland
to sponsor social work continuing education learning activities and maintains full responsibility for its
programs. This training qualifies for Category I continuing education units.
Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners
201 W. Preston Street, Baltimore, MD 21201-2399
The Washington School of Psychiatry is a National Board for Certified Counselors-Approved Continuing
Education Provider, ACEP #6388, and may offer NBCC-approved clock hours for events that meet NBCC
requirements. The School solely is responsible for all aspects of its programs.
National Board for Certified Counselors
3 Terrace Way, Greensboro, NC 27403
The Washington School of Psychiatry is accredited by MedChi, The Maryland State Medical Society, to
provide continuing medical education for physicians.
MedChi, The Maryland State Medical Society
1211 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201
The School designates each session for a maximum number of AMA PRA Category I credit(s). Physicians
should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Disclosure of Commercial Support and the Unlabeled use of a commercial product. No member of the
planning committee and no member of the faculty for school courses and events have a financial
interest or other relationship with any commercial product.
Preamble
The central function of the Washington School of Psychiatry (WSP) as outlined in the "Mission Statement" consists of learning, teaching, clinical experience, supervision, psychotherapeutic treatment, consultation and research. All those activities must be characterized by reasoned discourse, intellectual honesty, academic excellence, mutual respect and openness to constructive change.
The School expects students to maintain conduct appropriate for the WSP community, including:
By accepting membership in this community, an individual neither surrenders rights nor escapes fundamental responsibilities as a citizen but acquires additional rights and responsibilities as well to the entire School community. Enrolling denotes an implicit declaration of the student’s acceptance of the School’s policies and regulations as outlined in the most recent issues of the catalog and enrollment agreement form. Students of the WSP adhere to these rights and responsibilities and are in compliance with the professional and ethical standards of their credentialing organizations. Further, students attest that they are currently licensed by the State or City in which they practice or are working towards such licensure.
Failure to abide by the School’s policies and regulations will subject the student to appropriate disciplinary action.
General Statements
Students have the right to be treated fairly by faculty, colleagues, chairpersons, and all members of the School administration, and to be preserved from arbitrary or capricious action on the part of any such persons.
Teaching and Supervision
Students should expect teachers/supervisors to encourage the pursuit of learning in students, holding before them the best scholarly standards of the discipline. Respecting students as individuals, the teacher/supervisor seeks to establish a relationship of mutual trust and adheres to the proper role as
intellectual guide and counselor. Any exploitation of students for private advantage is prohibited.
Supervisors will always be cognizant of the delicate balance between the needs and expectations of the Program and the School, the training needs of the student, and last, but not least, the needs of the patient.
Since evaluations of and by a teachers/supervisors are uniquely important documents in both the academic and professional life of a student, such letters should be timely, candid, and fair. Students can be confident that the privacy of such evaluations will be preserved.
Relations with School Community
Students to attend class or meeting times with an awareness of the value for every student and will notify faculty, in advance, as much as is possible, of any absence.
Students, faculty, and staff are strongly encouraged to respect and defend the free inquiry of their associates. In the exchange of criticism and ideas, they show due respect for the opinions of others and their opinions, regardless of theoretical orientation, race, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation.
Constructive criticism of colleagues is sometimes necessary in the interest of the individual criticized or the entire School community. To be constructive, however, such criticism should be channeled, in confidence, toward those persons (preferably the individual concerned, but also academic superiors, faculty committees, or administrative officers) who have the power to correct or influence conduct in a constructive way.Indiscriminate criticism or gossip about colleagues is condemned.
Relations with Faculty
The school subscribes to the long-standing academic norm that sexual or amorous relationships between teachers/supervisors and students for whom they have professional responsibility are unacceptable even when both parties have consented to the development of such a relationship.
Enrollment
Enrollment is official only when students have been formally accepted by the program, paid the program deposit, and submitted the completed and signed enrollment agreement to the WSP Administrative Office of the school. Payment of tuition and fees is a requirement for continued enrollment; all fees must be paid for the entire program before a student will receive a certificate of completion. Students are subject to suspension for missing or delinquent fees. I further understand my graduation date is subject to change depending on my timely completion of all program requirements.
Admission
WSP is committed to quality, equitable, and accessible admissions policies and processes so that we may have a campus community that is reflective of the diversity of our society and well-qualified for the rigors of our programs. No one will be denied admission on grounds of age, color, disability, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Admission is at the discretion of the Director of Education and Membership and the Chair of the program for which the student is enrolled. WSP will based its admissions decisions on an overall evaluation of applicants' mental health experience, merits, strengths, and weaknesses. At a minimum, applicants must possess an advanced degree in a mental health-related field and meet the minimum criteria for admission into the School and the program for which the student is enrolled.
General Admissions Requirements
Individuals who meet the following criteria are eligible for admission have:
The Director of Education & Membership shall work with the Faculty/Clinical Staff Council to implement the admissions policies and standards for application, consistent with this policy. Faculty of programs may in consultation with the Director of Education & Membership, set admissions policies appropriate to that unit that are in addition to, or more rigorous than, the general School admission standards.
An applicant may simultaneously apply for admission to more than one training program.
Tuition & Fees
To view the WSP tuition and fees policies, please click here.
Program Start Date
The date that students are deemed to have started the program of study is when the five-day
period for rescinding their contract has passed, they have met the entrance requirements, and a proper
tuition payment has been made.
Course Structure
Courses may be periodically updated to ensure the currency and efficacy of the certificate program. The School reserves the right to make changes to any programs, courses, or products described on our website or published catalogs/brochures without notice or liability. This includes (but is not limited to):
If the School must cancel a course or change course dates or locations, enrolled students will be
informed immediately. Students transferred to a new version of a course following such notice may be
required to repeat coursework, if applicable.
Prerequisites
Students are responsible for meeting the required prerequisites or having the appropriate prior
experience for the program (or courses in the program). Students should consult their faculty member or program chair if prerequisites are required for their course/program.
Notification
Acknowledgment Notification: Students will receive an email acknowledging receipt of their registration request as soon as it is received and processed. If students do not receive a notification email in a timely manner, they should contact our office to verify that we have received their registration.
Confirmation Notification: Students will receive a confirmation email once a decision is made to conduct a course. The email will include course date(s), start times, location(s), and other class-related
information. Unless otherwise noted, we do not include lodging and meals in the tuition fee. Decisions
concerning the status of a course is generally made no later than fourteen (14) calendar days prior to
the start date.
Please do not make any nonrefundable travel or hotel arrangements until you are notified by the
School that your course have been confirmed.
Cancellation Notification: Students will receive an email notification if a course has been canceled.
Instruction
The School offers multiple forms of instruction including lectures, group discussion, and practical experiences. Faculty will provide course materials, where appropriate, and will answer student questions in an effort to assist students with their studies while enrolled in the program. Students are responsible for the cost of supervision and acquisition of all supplemental materials necessary for completion of the certificate program, where applicable.
The School reserves the right to determine the form of instruction offered and to modify the form at any time without notice.
Placement
As a post-secondary institution WSP sponsoring continuing education credits to working professionals for re-licensure and the opportunity to refine, renew or increase understanding and skills in the practice of psychodynamic psychotherapy. Students at WSP are adult, licensed professionals usually with at least some personal private practice, whether solo or group, and often with employment at a hospital or another mental health services agency. Job placement is not a specific part of the services offered by WSP, nor is it promised in any school literature.
Attendance
Attendance is taken at each class meeting. The attendance record is used as part of the student evaluation process, as well as in determining continuing education credits that may be awarded.
To receive the credits, attendees must attend 100% of the classes within each unit. Partial credit is not possible.
As an institution, we are aware that our unique population of students lead busy lives and that life, at times, may be interrupted by unforeseen circumstances. Thus, students may be eligible to complete make-up work for up to 20% of the missed classes at the discretion of program faculty. Faculty may elect to make attendance requirements within this plan more stringent (i.e., 90% rather than 80%). Students who require a record of attendance are responsible for checking with the instructor at each class meeting.
Classes meet weekly, monthly, or quarterly and involve lectures, discussions, and case presentations. It is important for each student to arrive on time and attend class on a regular basis. If it is not possible to attend a particular class, the student is required to contact the faculty member scheduled to teach, in advance of the class and notify him/her of the pending absence. A student who misses a class session is responsible for completing all material covered and, in some programs, is asked to write a paper about the readings.
Supervision Requirements
An integral part of most of the training programs is ongoing supervision at which time clinical work is presented as an adjunct to the didactic learning of the classroom. For courses where supervision is required, this is provided by a faculty member. These courses have a certain number of required hours of supervision per semester and these hours must be completed to graduate from the program. Finding patients to present in supervision is the responsibility of the student; however, if this is not possible an effort will be made to find patients at the Treatment Center. Faculty provides supervision at a subsidized rate, which varies from program to program.
Online Delivery of Courses (Telecommunications)
The Washington School of Psychiatry will combine two or more modes to provide a well-rounded educational experience. As a post-secondary educational institution, we believe that the utilization of a multimodal approach helps each student achieve academic success in their own way. Our programs are based on an andragogic theory of adult learning. We utilize multimodal learning approaches in our educational setting, as our certificate programs are primarily open to mature practitioners with advanced degrees.
A trained practitioner, our typical student, will thrive in a comprehensive learning environment that uses visual, auditory, and kinesthetic inputs — both verbal and non-verbal — including videos, images, actions, real-life examples, and hands-on activities. WSP will integrate and expand its utilization of educational technology in its program delivery. Utilization of new technologies mean new modes of communication for students and instructors. WSP will support its integration in an increasingly digital landscape by providing training and technical support resources for students and instructors. Our students will now have available to them a distance learning experience, which is incorporated into our existing approaches to learning.
The electronic classroom platforms require a computer with audio/video capability or a smart phone.
Evaluation of Students
Student progress and conduct are evaluated by a committee of the faculty. The student’s classroom teachers and clinical supervisors prepare evaluations of each student’s work. These evaluations and other relevant information are shared with the committee and, when considered appropriate, with other faculty members.
The evaluation committee will provide the student with information concerning his/her status. A student may be dismissed from a program should his or her performance be judged unsatisfactory or unethical. A certificate of program completion may be withheld for the same reasons.
Faculty supervisors evaluate supervisees rating and discussing the following:
If a student is evaluated as making unsatisfactory progress and faculty recommends that the student withdraw, take an enforced leave of absence, or be dismissed, the student will be informed in writing of this.
Program Review
The faculty of each course prepares a review of the conduct of their course annually for the Faculty/Clinical Council and the Board.
Credit for courses
The school offers non-degree, post-graduate training to licensed mental health professionals. Continuing education credits can only be given for actual hours of participation in these courses. No previous education, training or experience can be included in the school’s credit awards.
While several courses have a two or three plan, each year completed is a valid standalone sequence of classes and continuing education credits are awarded for each year completed.
Graduation
Graduation from WSP courses is based on completion of all class work for a course. Course requirements may include regular class participation, supervision, reaction papers and (in some cases) conference attendance. All must be completed before graduation to receive a certificate. Certificates of completion are awarded when the student has completed the full course.
Students who anticipate not being able to complete the requirements should talk to their program chair as early as possible.
Privacy
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), WSP representatives will not disclose any specific information about a student’s account without the student’s permission. To learn more about FERPA regulations, you may visit https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html.
The offices that houses FERPA is the Student Privacy Policy Office located at the U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5920. Phone: 1-800-872-5327.
Leave of Absence/Enforced Leave of Absence
Leave of Absence
Students must sometimes interrupt their studies for one or more semesters for varying reasons (financial, academic, or personal). A leave of absence communicates to the School that the student intends to leave temporarily, with a firm and stated intention of continuing their studies at WSP. Taking a leave of absence also ensures that the student’s status in their academic program of study remains active.
Students may apply for a leave of absence of no more than three semesters.
Requests for a leave of absence may occur at any time in the semester. Students who wish to file for a leave from their program must:
The Program Chair will forward the form and their recommendations to the Director of Education & Membership. The Leave of Absence Authorization form will be reviewed for the appropriate tuition refunds (see Refund Policy).
Filing for a leave of absence must be approved by the Program Chair and Director of Education & Membership. Approval is granted if the decision is “in the best interests of the academic progress of the students” and a copy of the Leave of Absence Authorization form is on file for the student’s program and the Director of Education & Membership prior to the semester for which a leave is granted. Leave will take effect as of the date signed by the Director of Education & Membership.
During the leave, students may not participate in courses or supervision, receive significant consultation from faculty, register for any WSP program, or make significant use of School resources. If the student wishes to return to their studies before the end of the leave period, they should notify their Program Chair and request that the leave of absence be shortened.
Before the completion of a leave, the student must notify their Program Chair and the Director of Education & Membership in writing by submitting an Application of Return so that the re-entry process can be initiated. Note: Return to a program is not guaranteed.
Time on a leave does not automatically extend. Extensions must be requested and approved; extensions
for parenting, pregnancy, and caregiving reasons will be granted at the time of the extension request.
If a leave is denied, students may submit a written appeal to the Director of Education & Membership within 10 days of the decision or opt for withdrawal by following the withdrawal procedures.
Enforced Leave of Absence
WSP is committed to the holistic health, well-being, and safety of all students and members of our community. We recognize that at times some students may experience circumstances or needs that substantially impact their ability to engage and participate in School activities successfully or safely.
Students may request a leave of absence to give full attention and time to remedying the issues leading to their need for a leave. However, in some instances, students may not choose to take a voluntary leave of absence. In such cases, programs may enforce a leave of absence.
In consultation with the Director of Education & Membership, the Program Chair may place a student on an enforced leave of absence under the following circumstances when students exhibit behavior that significantly disrupts the educational and other activities of the program and School community. Such behavior includes (but is not limited to):
If a student exhibits any of the behaviors described above, the student will be apprised in writing of the Program’s concerns - objective evidence such as the nature, severity, and duration of the observed behaviors - and decision. Observations will not be made based on speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations about individuals with disabilities.
Such notice shall also include:
Students will be place on an enforced leave of absence for one (1) year.
Program Chairs shall also make every effort to provide the student an opportunity to meet and discuss the conditions of the enforced leave of absence.
Students considering reinstatement must comply with all required conditions for reinstatement. Before the completion of a leave, the student must contact their Program Chair (cc’ing the Director of Education & Membership) in writing to request reinstatement, submitting – if requested – appropriate documentation that the student does not pose a threat to the health or safety of themselves or others and that the student is capable of behaving in a way that aligns with the School’s academic and community policies and standards.
Upon receipt of the written request, the Program Chair will examine all relevant documentation and provide the student an opportunity to meet to discuss possible reinstatement. In this meeting, the student and Chair will discuss conditions of reinstatement, program policies, the possibility of academic performance reviews, and the application process (if policies have changed). The Program Chair will consult with the Director of Education & Membership to decide whether a reinstatement will be approved, and, if so, under what conditions.
If approved for reinstatement, the student will receive an email outlining the process of reinstatement and conditions for continued attendance. The reinstated student will remain subject to the policies found in the Bulletin under which they originally entered WSP.
Withdrawal or Dismissal
Dismissal
Dismissal of a student is considered a very serious action. Students can be dismissed by faculty at any time in the semester. Dismissal will follow policies and procedures adopted by each program. (Note: Program dismissal policies and procedures are in line with, and sometimes stricter than, general School dismissal policies).
A program may dismiss a student for:
The Director of Education and Membership is responsible for dismissal of students and will act on the recommendation of the Program Chair. The Director of Education and Membership must be notified in writing immediately of the intent to dismiss a student. Notification must include evidence of precautions taken and should contain written documentation of requests to remediate the problem. The Director of Education & Membership will notify the student formally of the recommendation and the appeal process.
Dismissal from a training program triggers dismissal from WSP, unless the student is in good standing in another program at the School. Students dismissed by a program may reapply to WSP for admission to the same training program or a different certificate-granting program in one (1) year, unless the dismissal was triggered by:
Students who would like to appeal a dismissal from a program for academic reasons can file a grievance following the School’s grievance procedures. The grievance should be submitted to the Director of Education and Membership within 10 calendar days following receipt of notice of dismissal.
Withdrawal
Any student who finds it necessary to withdraw from the Washington School of Psychiatry must formally withdraw by completing and submitting the WSP Withdrawal Form to the WSP Administrative Office (washschool@wspdc.org). The effective date of withdrawal is the day upon which the form is approved by the WSP Administrative Office.
Note: Students are strongly encouraged to discuss any plans to withdraw with their program chair prior to withdrawing to ensure that they understand the academic implications.
Withdrawal requests must be submitted by the deadline for the academic year, as posted in the term’s Enrollment Agreement. Please see the “Refund of Tuition and Fees” section for our specific refund policies. Students are expected to have paid tuition and other fees in full.
Should a student be dismissed or withdraw from WSP, the student may reapply in a subsequent year to complete a course, subject to faculty approval. The student will receive credit for hours completed. Reinstatement is done by approval of the course faculty; however, students will have to reapply for admission.
Probation/Expulsion
Any violation of the ethical standards set by the profession, including but not restricted to boundary violations, dual relationships with clients and the endangering of clients’ mental health and well-being are grounds for probation/ expulsion.
Ethical standards are published by the various professional organizations and by local governing bodies. The American Psychological Association’s publication is a prime example, http://www.apa.org/ethics/code/.
Student Records
Student records are retained by statute for 7 years. The School, in its own interest, will retain records electronically beyond that period. Records will include courses taken, credit hours awarded, fees paid. No personal financial data will be retained in any form beyond the year(s) of attendance. Records are kept in confidential storage, paper records under lock and key, electronic records in HIPAA-compliant, passworded network storage off-site.
Students may request confirmation of their participation in courses at the school. An official transcript can be prepared for a small fee. Since the school does not offer course work towards any degree, this is not done except by request.
Students are expected to have paid tuition and other fees in full.
Transcripts
Transcripts of WSP records are issued by the WSP Administrative Office upon the student's written request. There is a $25 charge for transcripts. WSP reserves the right to withhold transcripts or records of students.
The Washington School of Psychiatry is committed to promoting the full participation of all qualified students with disabilities in all aspects of its training and programming. Students with disabilities are required to meet the same standards as other students at the WSP. It is only through a student's voluntary disclosure of their disability and request for accommodations that the school can support disability needs. Students or participants that do not voluntarily disclose their disability and request accommodations are not eligible for services.
WSP will make reasonable accommodations. A reasonable accommodation in the student setting is a modification or adjustment to a course, program, or activity or facility that allows the person with a disability to participate as fully as possible in the programs and activities offered by WSP. Accommodation may be necessary where the student or participant has, or has a record of having, a disability.
Documentation of a student/participant’s disability is maintained in a confidential file and is considered part of the student's education record. Information related to a disability may be disclosed only as permitted by law.
Students or conference participants need to submit a written request for accommodation to the Executive Director or his/her designee. Requests for services or accommodation should be made as early as possible to allow time to review requests and documentation and make proper arrangements.
Accommodation arrangements may be compromised or denied if a request is not made in a timely manner. A disclosure of disability or request for an accommodation made to a faculty or staff member, other than those designated will not be treated as a request for an accommodation.
A student who believes he/she has been denied equal access in the form of appropriate accommodations, modifications, auxiliary aids, or effective communication, or who believes he/she has suffered discriminatory harassment should file a formal grievance.
The Washington School of Psychiatry will comply with all legal and ethical responsibilities to be non-discriminatory in promotional activities, program content and in the treatment of program participants. The monitoring and assessment of compliance with these standards will be the responsibility of the Executive Director in consultation with the members of the Faculty-Clinical Committee and the Board of Directors.
While the Washington School of Psychiatry goes to great lengths to assure fair treatment for all participants and attempts to anticipate problems, there will be occasional issues which come to the attention of the WSP staff or faculty which require intervention and/or action on the part of the staff or faculty member of the Washington School of Psychiatry. This procedural description serves as a guideline for handling such grievances.
Procedures
Filing a Grievance
When a grievance arises pertaining to continuing education programs or processes, the complainant is expected to notify the Executive Director (Kim Jones, Esq., kjones@wspdc.org) in writing as soon as possible so that the concern can be addressed in a timely fashion. The complainant may also contact the Chair of the Board of Directors, Oliver Russell at board@wspdc.org.
Investigation
The Executive Director (or their designee) will investigate the complaint and will formulate a response to the complaint and, if necessary, recommend action, which will be communicated in writing to the complainant within one month after receiving the complaint. The Executive Director (or their designee) will follow the plan as indicated. WSP will attempt to treat all internal complaints and their investigation as confidential, recognizing, however, that in the course of investigating and resolving internal complaints some dissemination of information to others may be appropriate.
On completion of the investigation, the Executive Director will report their findings and conclusions to the complainant. If the complaint is resolved, resolution of the complaint will be coordinated with the appropriate group (e.g., the FCC or Board of Directors).
Appeal
If the complaint is not resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant, they may submit a written request for review of the complaint to the Chair of the Board of Directors. On completion of the appeal review, the complainant should receive an oral explanation of the conclusion reached and the reasons for that conclusion. Decisions resulting from appeal reviews by the Chair of the Board of Directors will be final.
Non-Retaliation
No one will face any reprisal or retaliation for making a good faith or bona fide complaint to WSP of a threat or assault in violation of this policy at any time. Further, anyone who believes they have been subjected to an adverse action as a result of making a report pursuant to this policy should contact:
Kim Y. Jones, Esq.
Executive Director
Copies of the confidential records of all grievances, along with the processes implemented to resolve grievances, will be securely maintained by the Executive Director or their designee. A copy of this Grievance Procedure will be available upon request.
The Washington School of Psychiatry is committed to implementing effective grievance procedures that, where possible, are managed quickly at the local level and with a minimum number of people involved. The resolution process focuses on a rapid re-establishment of good working relationships and positive outcomes. The following principles apply:
a) A grievance is owned by a complainant, who has the right to withdraw the complaint at any stage and choose to alter the process of resolution (for instance, formal to informal);
b) The police may be contacted in cases of possible criminal behavior;
c) Action is commenced within two weeks of a formal complaint being made;
d) All parties have a right to confidentiality and privacy, subject to necessary legal requirements;
e) All students and staff are informed of the grievance procedures;
f) If the grievance fits within equal opportunity legislation, it is managed under the relevant guidelines;
g) Information relevant to the grievance is provided to staff and students involved in a complaint;
h) Principles of fairness and due process are observed;
i) Students and staff are protected from victimization;
j) The focus for the resolution is on issues rather than individuals;
k) This policy detailed below is widely disseminated to students and staff at orientation, and on the School’s web site.
l) This policy is on file at the DC Higher Education Licensing Commission, 1050 First Street NE – 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20002
1.0 Approval
This policy was approved by the Board of Directors on March 2 2012.
2.0 Purpose
2.1 The purpose of this procedure is to enable enrolled students, staff and faculty to pursue grievances that are not covered by other specific policies and procedures.
2.2 The policy endeavors to establish procedures through which:
a) All parties have access to clearly defined processes designed to facilitate resolution of grievances;
b) Grievances are addressed in a timely and equitable manner;
c) The principles of natural justice are observed in the conduct of proceedings to which this policy relates.
2.3 The policy also endeavors to establish a framework within which members of the Washington School of Psychiatry community are encouraged to:
a) Resolve issues as close to source as possible;
b) Undertake appropriate actions to address systemic or underlying causes with a view to preventing problems from occurring or recurring.
2.4 Natural Justice requires that:
a) The person affected by a disputed matter be given the right to present his/her case including the opportunity to be heard, be provided with adequate notice of the allegations and the procedures to be used;
b) Members of the decision making body be free of bias and perceived bias or other personal interest in the outcome.
2.5 The policy ensures that the following is strictly adhered to:
a) Discrimination: Washington School of Psychiatry will strictly observe that the grievance policy does not discriminate against any complainant or respondent;
b) Third party assistance: Complainant and or respondent may be accompanied and assisted by a third party (such as a family member, friend, counselor or other professional support person) if desired at any stage of the grievance resolution procedure.
3.0 Scope
3.1 This procedure applies to any aspect of student, staff and faculty experience at the Washington School of Psychiatry.
3.2 This procedure covers, but is not limited to, grievances which may arise as a result of:
a) Payment of fees;
b) Student charges;
c) Course transfer;
d) Minimum course component;
e) Graduation;
f) Time limits for completing rationalized/discontinued/modified courses;
g) Interaction with staff, faculty and students;
h) Assessment and examinations;
i) Student discipline;
j) Recognition of prior learning;
k) Class timetables;
l) Other academic related matters;
m) Personal information.
4.0 Definitions
Grievant: For the purposes of this procedure, Grievant may be any person who is enrolled or is seeking to enroll in any course/subject/training program or conference offered by the Washington School of Psychiatry, or any faculty and staff member of the Washington School of Psychiatry.
Grievance: A complaint presented by an individual, or a group, based on the opinion of that individual or group that the individual or group is or has been, receiving unfair treatment.
Grievance Procedure: A prescribed set of processes to be followed when a grievance is presented.
5.0 Publication
A copy of these procedures will be provided to all staff and students as part of staff/student orientation programs and will be made publicly available on the School’s website www.wspdc.org and in staff and student information handbooks.
6.0 Staff Training
All staff will be informed of and trained in the application of this policy as part of ongoing staff training programs including induction and orientation programs.
7.0 Fees & Cost
There are no costs imposed on grievants by the Washington School of Psychiatry.
1.0 Actions which Give Rise to Grievance
A grievance arises when a Grievant has no other avenue of redress available to him or her under the procedures of the School for what he/she considers to be unfair treatment.
2.0 Resolving a Grievance
2.1 Informal Resolution
2.1.1 In the first instance, the Grievant should discuss the grievance informally with the relevant staff member who should try to resolve it. Where it appears that the grievance should be dealt with under another Washington School of Psychiatry policy, the staff member shall immediately refer the Grievant to the appropriate policy. Where a Grievant is unable to make contact with or is reluctant to approach the relevant staff member, the Grievant may then raise the matter with the FCC Chair or the Executive Director for students and faculty/staff respectively.
2.1.2 Grievants have up to ten (10) working days from the date of the occurrence that gives rise to the grievance, or the date the circumstances giving rise to the grievance become known to the Grievant, to initiate the formal review process.
2.1.3 During the informal process, the staff member/Executive Director/ FCC Chair may take such action as deemed appropriate to resolve the matter. This must include discussing the matter with the Grievant, and may also
include, but is not limited to:
a) Reviewing the student’s/staff/faculty records;
b) Discussing the matter with other members of the staff;
c) Allowing the Grievant to re-submit documentation where the staff member has reason to believe that the Grievant had valid grounds for misunderstanding relevant requirements.
2.1.4 The informal resolution process must be completed within ten (10) working days from the date on which the grievance was commenced. The FCC Chair or Executive Director may grant an extension not exceeding five (5) working days if it seems likely that the matter will be resolved in that time.
2.1.5 The Grievant will be advised in writing within five (5) working days of the conclusion of the informal resolution process which writing will detail:
a) he outcome of the informal resolution process;
b) The availability of support services at the Washington School of Psychiatry;
c) The appeals mechanism.
3.0 Formal Resolution
3.1 If a Grievant is not satisfied with the outcome of the informal resolution process, he/she may submit a formal grievance in writing to the Executive Director. This request must be submitted within fifteen (15) working days of the date of notification of the outcome of the informal resolution process.
3.1.1 The Grievant’s letter shall:
a) State the reason/s for the grievance;
b) Detail the outcome of the informal resolution process;
c) Include any specific issues which the grievant wishes to present to the Executive Director;
d) Where relevant, attach copies of documentary evidence.
3.1.2 The Executive Director will consider the formal grievance by:
a) Reviewing the Grievant’s letter and the outcomes of the informal resolution process;
b) Verifying that all appropriate procedures have been correctly carried out;
c) Seeking additional information from appropriate staff concerning the subject of the grievance;
d) Discussing the matter directly with the Grievant;
e) Undertaking other action as appropriate.
3.1.3 After consideration of all of the available evidence, the Executive Director may decide to:
a) Dismiss the grievance; or
b) Uphold the grievance and direct that:
i. Reparation as appropriate be made to the Grievant;
ii. Where relevant, the student’s enrolment status be restored;
iii. Where relevant, that administration systems, policies or procedures be reviewed;
iv. Appropriate actions to address systemic or underlying causes (if any) be undertaken, with a view to preventing problems from occurring or recurring;
v. Other actions as appropriate.
3.1.4 The Grievant will be informed of the outcome in writing within ten (10) working days of submission of the formal grievance as identified by the date of receipt by the Executive Director of the Grievant’s letter [See 3.1]
3.1.5 If the Executive Director and all suitable nominees have already been involved in the process, or have some other conflict of interest, the Executive Director will appoint another person to investigate the formal grievance.
4.0 Appeals
4.1 Grievance Appeals - A grievant has the right to appeal a decision of the Executive Director to the Grievance Appeals Committee. The grievant may appeal on one or more of the following grounds:
a) That the case was not heard on its merits;
b) That the grievant is able to provide new evidence which could not reasonably have been provided at the time of the Executive Director investigation;
c) That a procedural irregularity has occurred in the hearing of the grievance during the investigation by the Executive Director.
4.1.1 A grievant who wishes to appeal a decision of the Executive Director shall:
a) File the appeal with the office of the Executive Director;
b) File the appeal in the format shown below;
c) File the appeal within five (5) working days of receipt of written notification of the decision of the Executive Director.
4.1.2 The written appeal must:
a) State the grounds on which the appeal is made, in accordance with section 4.1 of this policy;
b) Detail and, where appropriate, provide evidence relevant to the grounds for appeal. A copy of documentary evidence referred to in the letter of appeal must be attached. (Failure to present evidence referred to in the letter of appeal will be taken into account by the Grievance Appeals Committee.)
4.1.3 Upon filing of the written appeal, the Executive Director will:
a) Check that the written appeal substantially complies with the format required in section 4.1;
b) Check that, where reference is made to supporting documentation, a copy of the documentation is attached;
c) Check that the Grievant has included a description of the relevant evidence relating to the grounds for appeal;
d) If applicable, consider the reasons provided for the late filing of an appeal and determine whether or not to allow the appeal, notwithstanding the missed deadline.
4.1.4 Where, in the opinion of the Executive Director, the appeal does not comply with one or more of these criteria, the Executive Director can return the documentation to the Grievant with a request for compliance.
5.0 Format of Appeal Letter
Executive Director
Washington School of Psychiatry School
5028 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Suite 400
Washington D.C. 20016-4118
I am hereby filing an appeal pursuant to the decision of the Executive Director, dated (insert date of notification), which I received on (insert date of receipt). The grounds of my appeal is/are: (insert ground(s) as appropriate) In support of this appeal, I submit the following information for consideration by the Grievance Appeals Committee.
(Include summary of all relevant information or material here)
Grievant Signature
Date:
Name:
Address for notices:
Contact telephone:
Email address:
6.0 Grievance Appeals Committee
Once the appeal has been accepted, the Request for Appeal must be forwarded to the appropriate Grievance Appeals Committee.
6.1 The composition of the Committee shall be:
a) The Executive Director or nominee;
b) One faculty member from the relevant Program or area different from that of the Chair;
c) Student Representative;
d) Staff Representative;
e) A member of the Board of Directors, who shall be Chair of the Committee;
f) Faculty with expertise in Ethics may be recruited in an advisory capacity as appropriate.
g) Both genders will be represented;
h) The Committee Chair and the staff member shall be from a program other than that which pertains to the grievance.
6.1.1 The School Registrar or nominee shall attend and act as Secretary to the Committee and shall:
a) Collate all documents relevant to the appeal hearing (including the grievant letter referred to in section 3.1.1 and the appeal letter referred to in section 5.0) and disseminate to all parties;
b) Establish a date, time and place for the appeal hearing and advise all parties in accordance with section 6.1.2;
c) Maintain a record of the proceedings of the appeal hearing and the decision(s) taken;
d) Advise the Executive Director of the outcome of the appeal immediately after the proceedings have concluded;
e) Draft the letter advising the Grievant of the outcome of the appeal for the Chair’s approval prior to obtaining the Executive Director’s signature; and
f) Ensure that a copy of all documentation is maintained in the official file.
6.1.2 When an appeal has been forwarded to the Grievance Appeals Committee, a meeting of the Committee shall be convened within 15 working days of the filing of the letter of appeal. All participants shall be given at least 10 days notification in writing of the time, date and place at which the appeal is to be heard. Notification will be forwarded to the Grievant via both email and first-class mail to his/her address.
6.1.3 The hearing shall be held in camera. The Committee shall regulate its own proceedings. The Committee may call before it any witnesses to provide additional evidence.
6.1.4 The Grievant shall be given the opportunity to appear in person before the Committee and to call witnesses. An advocate, who is not a member of the Committee and is not a legal practitioner, may represent the Grievant.
6.1.5 The Grievant must be given the opportunity to hear and examine the evidence of all witnesses called before the Committee.
6.1.6 The Committee must hear the matter on its merits, taking account of all of the circumstances of the case.
7.0 Decision of the Committee
7.1 After consideration of all of the available evidence, the Committee shall reach its decision by majority vote. The Secretary does not have voting rights.
7.1.1 The Committee may:
a) Confirm the decision against which the grievant has lodged his/her appeal;
b) Uphold the appeal;Modify the directions of the Executive Director;
c) Direct that appropriate actions be taken to address systemic or underlying causes (if any) with a view to preventing problems from occurring or recurring be undertaken;
d) Refer the matter to an external mediator;
e) Take other action as appropriate.
7.1.2. The committee shall reach a decision within 15 business days of hearing the appeal.
7.1.3 The Secretary will:
a) Send decision and reasons for the decision to the chair for the Chair’s signature;
b) Send the final decision to the Grievant by email and by first class mail within five (5) working days of the Committee’s decision being finalized;
c) Provide copies of the decision to other appropriate parties;
d) Maintain appropriate records as required.
8.0 Further Review
8.1 There is no further appeal against the decision of the Grievance Appeals Committee to any other officer or body within the Washington School of Psychiatry.
8.2.If not satisfied with a decision of the Grievance Appeals Committee, the Grievant may register a complaint with the DC Higher Education Licensing Commission, 1050 First Street NE – 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20002.
8.3. The DC Higher Education Licensing Commission may forward its recommendations regarding the grievance to the Washington School of Psychiatry.
8.4. The Washington School of Psychiatry shall ensure prompt implementation of any recommendations related to the grievance by the DC Department of Education.
9.0 Record Keeping
Records of all grievances and appeals must be kept for a minimum period of five years. Such records will remain confidential, to the extent allowed by law.
For emergencies dial 911.
It is essential that the campus community be prepared to respond appropriately in the face of emergencies such as fires, explosions and chemical releases. The following procedures are to be used by supervisors and managers to assist employees and students in thoroughly understanding the methods of an evacuation.
The key to a successful evacuation is planning. Each employee and student must familiarize himself/herself with the university’s emergency procedures and evacuation plan. Employees and the student must also become familiar with the buildings in which they work, including the location of exits, fires alarms, and fire extinguishers. All employees and students must know their responsibilities. Practice drills should be conducted to maintain preparedness.
I. Pre-Emergency Responsibilities
A. Knowing at least two exits other than the elevators.
B. Knowing the location and operation of the fire alarm system.
C. Keeping the Police emergency phone numbers conspicuously posted.
D. Participating in all fire drills and taking them seriously.
E. Knowing how to use fire extinguishers. Become familiar with the locations and types of fire extinguishers.
F. Knowing the location outside the building where members of your department must congregate upon exiting.
G. Advising personal that they are to begin evacuating at the first sign of smoke or fire alarm.
H. Assigning one person and a backup to assist with evacuating each disabled individual.
II. Duties during an Emergency
A. Activate the fire alarms and dial 911.
B. Confine the fire by closing all doors and windows.
C. Alert people on the floor so they can begin evacuation. D. Take your personal belongings and exit the building.
D. Remain outside the building until allowed back in by the Police.
E. Congregate at the pre-designated location outside the building so that a head count of the department may be taken.
III. Emergency Procedures for Disabled Personnel
A. If the fire is not on the same floor as the disabled person, close all doors and wait for assistance.
B. One person should stay with the disabled individuals while another person reports to the University Police.
C. Hearing-impaired and visually impaired persons need only one person assigned to assist them during an evacuation. They must be notified of fire alarms and guided to safe escapes routes.
D. If needed, after the other employees and students have been evacuated, disabled employees and students may be assisted to the stairwell landings to wait for emergency personnel. All doors to the stairwell must be kept closed in order to reduce the buildup of smoke.
The Washington School of Psychiatry's main office, the Eugene Meyer III Treatment Center, and the Adele Lebowitz Center for Youth and Families are located at 5028 Wisconsin Avenue (Suite 400) in the Friendship Height neighborhood of the District of Columbia. The building is within walking distance of the red Metro Line (Friendship Heights, Jenifer St. exit) and is on main bus routes. Nearby parking is also available.
The suite holds 11 multipurpose rooms, including a large conference room, a library, and nine (9) rooms that are utilized for therapy sessions, small classes, or break-out rooms as needed. There also administrative offices and a records room.
The large conference room can be divided into two (2) separate meeting rooms and is equipped with one large TV and speakers.
A library of psychotherapy literature is maintained here, shelved in three (3) the rooms. The collection contains several thousand volumes. Video and WIFI services are installed.
The building and School facilities are fully accessible.
This nonprofit educational institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Washington School of Psychiatry prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of
race/ethnicity, color, creed, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, on the basis of gender
or legal sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic
information, political beliefs, veteran status, on the basis that all or part of an individual’s income is
derived from any public assistance program, or in reprisal for pursuing rights under any of the above.
To file a complaint of discrimination, write:
Kim Y Jones, Esq.
Executive Director
Washington School of Psychiatry
5028 Wisconsin Avenue, NW
Suite 400
Washington, DC. 20020
The Washington School of Psychiatry is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful environment. In our commitment, we believe that students, staff, volunteers, contractors, and visitors should be addressed by name(s) and pronoun(s) that honors with their gender identity. As such, students may request usage of their preferred first name and correct pronoun(s). A court-ordered name and gender change is not required.
The preferred first name and correct gender pronoun(s) will be used in lieu of the legal name and legal sex wherever the legal name and legal sex is not required. For example, the preferred first name and correct pronoun(s) will be used in emails generated by the WSP Administrative Office. The legal name and legal sex are used for admission-related processes and other legally binding purposes.
Students who wish to designate a preferred first name or correct gender pronoun(s) or want to change their any of their contact information, must provide written notification of any changes in my name, physical address, email address, or phone number within thirty (30) days of any such change to the WSP Administrative Office via email (washschool@wspdc.org), by mail, or in person.
In the course of delivering its services and programs, WSP collects personal information students and clients. Personal information means any information that could be used on its own, or with other information, to establish the identity of a client or student, the client’s service provider or the client’s substitute decision maker. Personal information also includes any other information about a student or client including information that is contained in a client or student record.
WSP collects, uses and shares personal information for the following purposes:
WSP may also collect, use and share personal information with consent or as permitted or required by law.
WSP is committed to protecting the privacy of its students/clients and ensuring that:
Violations of this privacy policy should be directed to:
Kim Jones, Esq.
Executive Director
The Washington School of Psychiatry
5028 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 100 Washington, DC 20016-4118
Call us at 202-237-2700 or 202-537-6050
Celebrating its 85th year, the School is an accredited provider of post-graduate continuing education.
The Meyer Treatment Center provides low cost access to mental health services. It is an out-of-network facility for insurance purposes.
The Washington School of Psychiatry is an independent non-profit organization. It is not affiliated with the government of the District of Columbia or the government of the United States.
Copyright © 2020 The Washington School of Psychiatry - All Rights Reserved.
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