Newcastle woman convicted for pretending to be a registered psychologist online

Newcastle woman convicted for pretending to be a registered psychologist online

19 May 2026

The case was brought after an investigation by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, which found she had created multiple fake online profiles over a 12-month period.

The woman, Christin Anne Elizabeth Knight, also known as Christin Lawrence, described herself as a psychologist on websites and booking platforms, despite never holding psychology qualifications or registration.

She also attempted to gain membership with the Australian Psychological Society using false details and provided a fake registration certificate.

Following the investigation, Ahpra took action to have the fake online profiles removed and laid 12 criminal charges in June 2024, including claims of holding herself out as a registered psychologist.

She did not attend her trial in 2025 and was found guilty in her absence. A warrant was issued before she later appeared for sentencing in April this year at Penrith Local Court.

The court found she had engaged in ongoing fraudulent behaviour. She was given a two-year community corrections order, fined a total of $9,500, and ordered to pay legal costs.

Ahpra CEO Justin Untersteiner said the regulator has zero tolerance for people falsely claiming to be registered health practitioners, warning that it puts public safety at risk.

Psychology Board of Australia Chair Rachel Phillips said patients should always check the national register to confirm a practitioner is properly qualified and registered.

Ahpra reminded the public that the online register of practitioners can be used to verify registration status and identify any restrictions or conditions on a practitioner’s licence.

https://www.ahpra.gov.au/

Source: Ahpra / NSW court proceedings
 
 

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