Any Unethical Treatment By Psyhotherapist May Result In Criminal Charges

By Jocelyn Davidson


A competent psychotherapist can bring about beneficial changes in the life of an emotionally disturbed individual. However, there are those who only do further harm. It should be noted that when a patient reports unethical treatment by psychotherapist it may be true.

It is a cold person who can do something in spite of the fact that it will be harmful to the patient. Is going to make her condition worse rather than better. She does not benefit by having another negative experience added to her problems.

A client may also develop a romantic interest in the therapist. If she tries to make physical contact it is up to the therapist to stop her. A respectable distance must always be respected.

Over four percent of all clients report sexual abuse of some kind has been perpetrated against them. Most are male on female. However, there are some female therapists who initiate sexual contact with male clients.

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.

Without some degree of caring on the part of the psychotherapist, counseling cannot be effective. Without trust being established the client will not be able to benefit from treatment. However, that caring can sometimes be interpreted by a client as romantic interest.

In cases that threaten to get out of control, the professional must take responsibility for whatever happens. It may be necessary for him to suggest the patient see another therapist. Clients are sensitive to rejection and an explanation is needed to make them understand why it is going to be necessary.

Some therapists condone sexual contact between themselves and a patient. A few consider it beneficial to that patient. Taking advantage of a vulnerable individual in this way is unethical and also illegal in a number of states. Only a brave person can come forward to report the abuse.

It is possible, even likely, that no one will believe her. It is a case of he said she said. The word of an unstable woman is less believable than that of a respected professional. Her therapist will have made her condition worse rather than alleviating it.

Some patients will hire an attorney to advise them in how to proceed. There are three pathways that can be followed to actively retaliate when they are abused and possibly, collect damages from the accused abuser. The results are different at the end of each.

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.

Secondly, a criminal complaint can be filed. If the client wins this case, the therapist may have to spend time in prison. The third choice is to file a complaint with the review board that governs mental health professionals. This will go on record and if enough clients complain, his license to practice may be revoked.




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