Psychologist Gets License Revoked for Misconduct With Patients

Psychologists are to act in a professional manner at all times. Sometimes they take advantage of their patients’ vulnerability. When they do more harm than good, they face punishment from the board for their actions. In severe cases, they can even lose their license.

A 33-year-old psychologist is facing punishment for sexually assaulting two female clients. He has been charged with two counts of sexual assault, and now faces two consecutive prison sentences of up to five years.

The psychologist was an intern at Campbell County Health in Wyoming when he met the two patients in 2015. One of them was being treated for mental health issues following a rape. The man treated her at his private practice, where he made sexual advances toward her. He forcefully had sex with her in June 2016.

Since the assault, the woman has struggled with mental health issues. The woman is unable to work or even leave her house. She has trust issues and is scared of doctors and men in general.

The other patient met the psychologist while she was being treated for depression. In February 2016, the psychologist forcefully had sex with her on two occasions. Her mental health problems have since worsened. She was diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder and has struggled with suicide. It is difficult for her to seek treatment because she is frightened of men and doctors. One of the sexual assault charges was dropped.

Many people came to court to support the psychologist. His mother and stepmother claimed that the man had an abusive childhood and became a psychologist to help others. Three friends also spoke on his behalf, describing him as caring and thoughtful.

The psychologist entered a plea agreement, but was given a stricter sentence by the judge based on the nature of the offenses. The victims were vulnerable, and the psychologist acted in a secretive and calculating manner, using his power to take advantage of them.

He will no longer be able to practice as a psychologist in this country. He was forced to surrender his license and is now unable to obtain a license anywhere in the United States. He must pay $5,202 in restitution and register as a sex offender.

The man faces up to 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines for each count of sexual assault. He will receive credit for time already served.

Keep Your License with Help From a Tampa Psychologist Licensing Lawyer

Psychologists are supposed to help patients, but those who end up harming them can get their license suspended or revoked. If you are in this situation, it’s crucial that you take the appropriate steps to protect your license.

If you are a licensed Florida psychologist facing punishment from the state board, seek legal help from The Law Offices of David P. Rankin, P.A. With 30 years of experience representing psychologists and other licensed professionals, I can help you achieve a favorable outcome. Contact my office at (813) 968-6633 to schedule a consultation.

Resource:

gillettenewsrecord.com/news/local/article_a1cb80aa-4f0f-588d-bd93-0f1e8f7c803b.html