South Australia's health and community services watchdog is investigating claims on an Adelaide therapist's social media page that 'rapid eye therapy' can cure mental health conditions.
The Acting Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner Catherine Whitington has issued an interim prohibition order against Pauline Masters after she was made aware of claims on social media pages run by Ms Masters.
Ms Masters has been banned from making the claim that rapid eye therapy can cure post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression.
"The conditions of PTSD, anxiety and depression can be treated but not cured," Ms Whitington said.
"An unregistered health care worker must practice in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Certain Health Care Workers and this investigation will determine if the code has been breached.
"Accordingly, I believe it is necessary to make this order to protect the health or safety of members of the public.
"If any member of the public has concerns, they can call or email us."
Ms Masters is listed as the only therapist on the Adelaide Anxiety and Stress Clinic's website, which describes her as a "certified rapid eye technician".
Ms Masters told the ABC she "did not write" the social media post referencing rapid eye therapy as a "cure" for such mental health conditions.
She said the material had been written and posted by a client, who has been helping her manage her social media accounts.
Ms Masters said she believed the individual behind the report to the commissioner's office had been targeting and "bullying" her.
The interim order will be in place against Ms Masters for 12 weeks while the commissioner investigates.
The commissioner said she was unable to comment further while the investigation is underway.
