Composition of the Commission
of Psychologists of Belgium
The Assembly of Representatives
The Assembly of Representatives is composed of 12 psychologists elected by the psychologists registered on the official list. These members represent the different sectors of psychology:
- 3 from the clinical sector
- 1 from the school and educational sector
- 1 from the work and organizational sector
- 1 from the research sector
Each full member has one or two alternates.
Linguistic parity is ensured.
The Assembly of Representatives has the following legal missions:
1. To decide on applications for registration on the list of recognized psychologists, as well as within one of the four sections mentioned above.
2. To publish the list of persons entitled to use the title of psychologist, including the section in which they are registered.
3. To inform psychologists and the public on all matters of general interest regarding:
- the title of psychologist,
- professional ethics,
- and the functioning of disciplinary bodies.
4. To assist the competent ministers by providing advice on all matters related to the title of psychologist.
5.
To oversee the continuing education of recognized psychologists — with the exception of those practicing clinical psychology and assistants of independent psychotherapy practitioners.
UNDER PUBLIC SUPERVISION
A government commissioner and a deputy commissioner, appointed by the King, oversee the proper fulfillment of these missions.
The board
Het Bureau
The Board is composed of four members elected by the Assembly of Representatives:
- a President
- a Vice-President
- a Treasurer
- a Secretary
Balanced Composition
The Board reflects the linguistic and sectoral diversity of the profession:
- The President and Vice-President belong to different language groups.
- The same applies to the Treasurer and the Secretary.
- At least one member comes from the school and educational sector, the work and organizational sector, or the research sector.
MAIN MISSIONS
The Board is responsible for:
the day-to-day management of the Psychologists’ Commission (administrative and operational), in particular the handling of current affairs;
overseeing financial management;
preparing meetings of the Assembly of Representatives;
recruiting and managing staff;
carrying out all other tasks entrusted by the Assembly (except those expressly reserved to it);
regularly presenting its activities at each meeting of the Assembly;
organizing elections (Art. 2 of the Royal Decree of 12 December 2024 implementing the Law of 8 November 1993 protecting the title of psychologist).
OUR VALUES AND OUR WORKING CULTURE
We aim to foster a team culture based on mutual support and respect.
Our shared values: clarity, service, transparency, prudence, and reflection.
Our commitment: say what we do and do what we say.
We strive to be accessible, available, and engaged.
Specific Roles
Carl Defreyne, the president
The President (or the Vice-President in his/her absence) is the official representative of ComPsy and holds ultimate responsibility. His/her main tasks are:
- Authorized signatory
- Chairing meetings and the Board
- Acting as liaison between the government official and third parties
- Responsibility for staff, including the office
Patrick Engelhardt, the vice-president
The Vice-President
- Substitute for the President
- Responsible for ComPsy’s policy, strategy, and image
- Liaison and vision
- Stakeholder management
Denis Smidts, treasurer
The treasurer :
- is responsible for the Commission’s movable assets;
- oversees the financial situation and the annual accounts;
- ensures the collection of membership fees and other amounts due;
- prepares the budget and the annual accounts;
- presents a financial statement to the Assembly each quarter;
- submits an annual audit report (before 15 February) to the Assembly and to the competent Minister.
Ellen Excelmans, secretary
Although the law does not assign him any specific role, in practice the secretary performs the following duties:
- Preparing agendas, notices, and minutes;
- Developing and monitoring procedures;
- Managing archives;
- Streamlining digital processes;
- Sending invitations to Assembly meetings.