The Kinesiology Act, 2007 states that “no person other than a member shall use the title “kinesiologist”, a variation or abbreviation or an equivalent in another language.”
All kinesiologists are reminded to think about how and why correct use of titles and designations benefits the public. This includes:
- Assuring the public that the practitioner has demonstrated that they have the knowledge, skill and judgement to practice safely and ethically; and
- Informing the public that the practitioner is accountable to the College.
To help kinesiologists understand the College’s expectations, the College’s Practice Guideline – Use of Titles & Designations states that:
- The protected title “kinesiologist” (or approved variant, such as R.Kin) must be listed immediately after the practitioner’s name. This is true even where other titles are used. The protected title should be placed first.
- Example: Jane Doe, R.Kin, [other unregulated/non-registered titles/designations, if any are used]
- The protected title may be followed by a recognized degree, diploma or certificate.
- Example: John Doe, R.Kin, B.Sc. (Kinesiology)
- Kinesiologists who are also registered with another college in Ontario are advised to list the title they use or practice under most frequently first.
- Example: Jane Doe, R.Kin, [other protected title, such as RMT]; OR, if the member primarily practices using the other protected title:
- Example: Jane Doe, [other protected title, such as RMT], R.Kin
The Practice Guideline also advises kinesiologists to use the following principles to consider what titles or designations to use, and how they should be used:
- Principle 1: In determining what credentials or designations may be used in advertising and in professional representation, the member should distinguish between additional qualification and ongoing professional development.
- Principle 2: Inclusion of any designation or certificate in addition to R.Kin must be with the intent of better informing the public about the member’s practice area or additional qualification(s), and must not be misleading, but legitimate and verifiable.
- Principle 3: Any designation or certification included in a member’s advertising or professional representation must serve to enhance the image of the profession of kinesiology.
- Principle 4: Any designation or certification used by a member must relate to the scope of practice of kinesiology.
- Principle 5: There should be general acceptance among the membership that the conferring body is qualified.
Kinesiologists are encouraged to seek advice from the College regarding Use of Titles and Designations.