MAFS Relationship Expert John Aiken to Receive Counseling After Formal Complaint
John Aiken, the prominent relationship expert on Married At First Sight Australia, will undergo professional counseling following a formal complaint lodged against him by a former participant. The Psychology Board of Australia has mandated this corrective action after reviewing allegations about Aiken's conduct during the reality television program.
Complaint Details and Ethical Concerns
Ben Walters, who appeared on the 2024 season of Married At First Sight Australia paired with bride Ellie Dix, filed the complaint in April 2025. Walters expressed significant concerns about Aiken's on-screen behavior and commentary, suggesting these actions might violate ethical obligations for registered psychologists.
"I am troubled by aspects of his on-screen behavior and commentary," Walters stated in his complaint. "I believe this may constitute a breach of his ethical obligations as a registered psychologist during my experience with him in 2023 after four sessions."
Previous Regulatory History and Current Resolution
This development follows an earlier investigation into Aiken's professional conduct in 2017, which resulted in restrictions preventing him from identifying as a psychologist or practicing psychology on the television program. Despite these limitations, Walters contends that Aiken continues to leverage his professional background during the show.
"He continues to provide commentary and advice in a manner that draws upon his professional background and expertise," Walters alleged, "significantly influencing public perceptions."
The Psychology Board of New South Wales confirmed that the complaint would be closed following counseling sessions for Aiken. However, officials noted they would maintain a record of the complaint and consider it should additional concerns arise about Aiken's professional conduct in the future.
Broader Context and Participant Experience
John Aiken has served as a relationship expert on Married At First Sight Australia since its 2015 premiere, working alongside fellow panelists Alessandra Rampolla and the late Mel Schilling. His professional website describes him as "well known for delivering hard-hitting feedback," "calling out toxic patterns of behavior," and "holding couples accountable for their actions."
Walters, who departed the experiment midway through his season, has publicly criticized his experience on the program. He previously appeared on the So Dramatic! podcast, alleging that producers mocked his ADHD diagnosis and describing how he was driven to walk out of an interview at one point during production.
The former participant concluded his complaint by suggesting that involvement in "a program that appears to prioritize drama and conflict" might conflict with ethical principles established by the Australian Psychological Society.
Program Background and Industry Response
Married At First Sight, which originated in Australia and spawned international versions including a UK adaptation, follows couples who meet for the first time at the altar as they navigate marital challenges and determine whether to remain together. The format has generated significant controversy regarding the balance between entertainment value and ethical psychological practice.
Channel Nine and representatives for John Aiken have been contacted for comment regarding this development. The counseling requirement represents the latest chapter in ongoing discussions about professional ethics within reality television programming that incorporates psychological expertise.
