When Psychologists Get In Trouble
Those who are dealing with anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other mental issues expect that a psychologist or therapist would be able to help them. These people trust mental health professionals to listen to them without judgment.
Because of this, you need to be careful when dealing with patients. You cannot engage in misconduct. You cannot do something unethical, like share a patient’s secrets or personal information with others or sexually assault them. You cannot falsify information about your qualifications or submit false claims to health insurance companies.
These are all serious issues that can lead to license loss and other licensing issues.
A psychologist can get in trouble in various ways. It has happened a lot over the years. Here are some real-life examples of mental health professionals who have faced licensing issues for unethical and illegal activities involving their patients.
Drug Dealing
Selling drugs is illegal, even if you’re a social worker. In April 2022, a woman got her license revoked after it was discovered that she used a student to sell drugs to other students at a school. The student admitted to selling drugs to half the school. The social worker was considered to be a danger to the public.
Ranting on TikTok
People use social media way too much to express their thoughts and for licensed professionals, it can backfire. A therapist went on TikTok to rant about black men not seeking therapy. Her 150,000 followers saw her post, which was filled with expletives. The video caused her to be fired.
Sexual Misconduct
A counselor had his license revoked in August 2022 after he was accused of touching a teen boy during treatment. The inappropriate touching happened on three separate occasions. In one case, the man placed his hands in the boy’s waistband to assist with breathing exercises. The therapist also discusses his own sexual encounters with the teen. The boy’s parents took action, causing the therapist’s license to be revoked. He was also fined $4,000.
Sexual Assault
A social worker was accused of inappropriate sexual activity after sexually assaulting two patients. One patient was a minor, whose parents contacted police about the social worker’s activities and filed a report. The man was arrested and faces criminal charges. His license has been suspended as well.
Keep Your License With Help From a Tampa Psychologist Licensing Lawyer
Psychologists can be helpful for people dealing with emotional trauma and psychological issues. However, there are licensed professionals who take advantage of patients and do not keep their interests in mind.
If you are dealing with licensing issues, a Tampa psychologist licensing lawyer from The Law Offices of David P. Rankin, P.A. can assist you. I understand how license loss can cause you financial difficulties as well as harm to your reputation. Schedule a consultation, by filling out the online form or calling (813) 968-6633.
Source:
moguldom.com/420043/dirty-therapy-7-examples-of-therapists-getting-into-trouble-or-their-licenses-revoked/