Relationship with a Therapist, Doctor or Boss

A sexual relationship with a therapist, doctor, boss, key executive or anyone in a professional capacity where you are their patient or subordinate is never appropriate.

These relationships may seem okay – at least at the outset. But ultimately, many of these relationships are harmful to the patient, because the professional is taking advantage of their patient’s or subordinate’s trust and exploiting their weaknesses. Many of these relationships are also extramarital affairs that don’t last, leaving the victim hurt and feeling powerless.

You can discuss your case confidentially with a lawyer by calling 612-877-6400 or emailing our office today.

What Makes These Relationships Inappropriate?

Even if sex was consensual, and even if it was initiated by the patient, these relationships are completely inappropriate because they’re unequal in terms of power and trust. Most often, the patient is in an extremely vulnerable position, especially when they are not well and/or undergoing therapy.

That’s why it’s a good idea to seek the guidance of an attorney who is experienced in helping people – usually women – who have been maligned in this manner.

"I have represented multiple plaintiffs who were taken advantage of after entrusting their care to their therapist, doctor or other healthcare professional.” — Patrick

Taking the Legal Route

A therapist, doctor or any healthcare professional has a moral and ethical duty to protect their patients’ health and well-being. That’s why a sexual relationship with a patient is never appropriate. In fact, if any therapist, doctor or professional who crosses this boundary is caught, they will likely face disciplinary action and potentially the suspension of his or her professional license as well as civil court action.

“As an attorney practicing personal injury law, I have represented multiple plaintiffs who were taken advantage of after entrusting their care to their therapist, doctor or other healthcare professional,” Patrick said. “An attorney who has handled these types of cases knows what legal routes are available that will hold the doctor or professional accountable for his or her behavior.”

Prevent Future Abuse

In short, therapists, doctors and professionals who take advantage of the power that their patients and society entrusts them with should and must be held accountable. Most victims also are motivated to pursue legal action to prevent the violating professional from hurting other victims by crossing those moral and ethical boundaries. Typically, doctors and therapists who have engaged in inappropriate relationships are repeating a pattern of behavior they've engaged in with multiple people.

Protecting Your Rights and Well-Being

After seeking care from a therapist or professional trained to handle sexual abuse, your next step should be to seek advice from an experienced attorney. You can discuss your case confidentially with a lawyer by calling 612-877-6400 or emailing our office today.

"After contacting many law firms that were unwilling to take my case, I was referred to Patrick. At our first meeting, he was open and candid with me about the legal process, taking time to hear the details of my situation and explaining all of my legal options in a clear and concise manner. 

Patrick validated everything I went through. He heard me and was my voice, and kept my best interests in mind the entire time. I highly recommend him as legal counsel." — Kacey