Any Unethical Treatment By Psyhotherapist May Result In Criminal Charges

By Jocelyn Davidson


There are many individuals, both male and female, who have reaped the rewards of working with a therapist. However, not all behave in the way they should. When someone reports unethical treatment by psyhotherapist, there is a high probability it may be a valid complaint.

In spite of the fact that it is detrimental to the welfare of the patient, some therapists will initiate sexual contact with her. The woman who turns to him for help due to a mental or emotional disorder is further burdened with another negative experience. There is never a time when this is beneficial to the client.

When the patient is the one trying to initiate a sexual relationship, it is the responsibility of the therapist to put a stop to it. Such a patient may mistake professional concern for romantic interest. A therapist must correct that misinterpretation.

The number of clients who report this type of abuse is relatively low. Although most are women abused by male therapists, there are cases of female counselors abusing men who are in therapy. It is always up to the professional to maintain a professional distance.

Any patient who is sexually abused may end up as an inpatient instead of an outpatient. Many are hospitalized after attempting suicide. Of the four percent who make an attempt, one percent are successful.

The therapeutic relationship must be a balance of concern for the patient and keeping a professional distance. Physically, there should be no touching. But, without the perception of a counselor who cares about your well-being, it is difficult for trust and response to treatment to occur.

If the client becomes too dependent or too romantically inclined, it is up to the professional to curb the situation. Whenever it seems to be spiraling out of control, he may suggest another therapist take over the case. This may make the client feel rejected and requires a careful explanation of why it is necessary.

Some professionals do not accept the fact that sexual abuse of a patient is not only unethical, but also illegal. In some states it is an offense punishable by prison time. In all it is at least a misdemeanor. It takes a brave patient to report such abuse.

It is difficult to prove the therapist is guilty. When the word of a mentally disturbed woman is weighed against that of a respected professional, it is obvious who is likely to be more believable. The patient may be left in a worse mental state than when she first asked for help.

Hiring an attorney before making the decision to report the situation is the best thing to do. One of three things may happen. He will be sanctioned by the review board that governs his profession. He will be sent to prison if found guilty in a criminal court of law. Finally, he may be ordered to pay damages if found guilty in civil court.

In civil court winning the case will allow her to collect damages, have medical expenses covered and future therapy paid for. Punitive damages may also apply. When reporting to a review board, it is possible for the therapist to lose his license either temporarily or permanently depending on circumstances.

Loss in a criminal court will involve sentencing to prison, community service or a suspended sentence. Regardless, the proven abuse will remain on his permanent record. His ethical standards will forever be questionable.




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