Despite having no formal qualifications and a conviction for fraud, for years a former bankrupt who bought his PhD on the internet has been able to pass himself off as a psychologist in both Sydney and Melbourne.

Titling himself Dr David Kaye, the 54-year-old currently runs the Sydney Trauma Clinic which offers services in the treatment and management of psychological trauma and related disorders.

Ali Davut Sarikaya, aka David Kaye, pictured in 1993. Credit:Sebastian Constanzo

In 2012 "Dr Kaye" was appointed to the NSW Bar Association's Professional Conduct Committee to assist in disciplinary matters against barristers.

Two years later he was asked to resign after issues relating to his identity and his past caught up with him.