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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 8 of 8. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by Jadah on July 27, 2005, at 21:17:15
I am aware of a therapists need to report (suspected) abuse, suicidal or homocidal intentions or threats.... but are they mandated to report other therapists who have over stepped their boundaries (Sexually, personally...). I want to go to another T to process my current affair with my (now) ex-T in order for me to move away from the situation with minimal hurt. Can I really be honest about my situation without getting him in trouble. Im even afraid to use a fake name in fear that they will be able to find out who he is and report him. I am not out to ruin his life, but I really need to process my feelings (with a professional). Any suggestions would really help!
Posted by Dr. Bob on July 28, 2005, at 17:39:18
In reply to Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by Jadah on July 27, 2005, at 21:17:15
> are they mandated to report other therapists who have over stepped their boundaries
Sorry, but my role here is just administrative. Maybe others will have some ideas? Best wishes,
Bob
Posted by Tiggercat on July 28, 2005, at 22:32:28
In reply to Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by Jadah on July 27, 2005, at 21:17:15
I'm not sure, Jadah, but you could check state licensing boards and requirments, which you should be able to find at state websites.
Posted by Emily Elizabeth on July 28, 2005, at 23:42:05
In reply to Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by Jadah on July 27, 2005, at 21:17:15
Issues over reporting tend to be very tricky. Usually, if something is happening between consenting adults, it is not reportable, BUT there are some exceptions. For example, if a person is disabled or elderly and being abused and that typically can be reported to protective services.
However, I think that most therapists try to be very up front about what they would report and what they wouldn't. So, I would call up a potential T or two and tell him/her what you just posted. Ask if s/he were working with you what s/he would believe to be her/his obligation on this matter. I think that most T's would feel comfortable outlining their policies and boundaries on this issue.
You also might call your state's psychology association and/or licensing board directly to ask about this.
Good luck. I hope that you can find your way to a safe and supportive therapy. Take care.
Best,
EE
Posted by rockymtnhi on July 28, 2005, at 23:57:02
In reply to Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by Jadah on July 27, 2005, at 21:17:15
Most Ts know or have heard of one another. The affair could harm his reputation and he may not get referrals because of it.
I think it becomes an issue for his licensing board if YOU report him because it would appear that he abused his power in the therapeutic relationship.
I hope that you are able to process this with a T who will keep your situation confidential.
Posted by happyflower on July 29, 2005, at 7:05:36
In reply to Re: Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by rockymtnhi on July 28, 2005, at 23:57:02
I don't know if a T can report another T if you were telling them in a session because I thought they are required to be confidential.
But please keep in mind, ANYONE ELSE can report him about you, it doesn't have to be you turning him in. Please be careful for all involved.
Posted by B2chica on July 29, 2005, at 12:31:33
In reply to Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by Jadah on July 27, 2005, at 21:17:15
> I am aware of a therapists need to report (suspected) abuse, suicidal or homocidal intentions or threats.... but are they mandated to report other therapists who have over stepped their boundaries (Sexually, personally...). I want to go to another T to process my current affair with my (now) ex-T in order for me to move away from the situation with minimal hurt. Can I really be honest about my situation without getting him in trouble. Im even afraid to use a fake name in fear that they will be able to find out who he is and report him. I am not out to ruin his life, but I really need to process my feelings (with a professional). Any suggestions would really help!
Jadah, i don't mean to be devil's advocate here but could it be that it's a pattern with your (now)ex-T? what if he does it again? maybe...just maybe he should be reported. and of course you would never want to hurt him, but there's many people who've hurt me and i don't want to get them into trouble...but maybe they should.
it's obvious you still have caring feelings for the ex. but don't let that stop you from getting the care YOU need to heal!i personally would find a T that you are really comfortable with and just talk frankly about the situation. tell them what you told us, use a fake name for the ex T and if they ask for real name say you are not comfortable and say why. if they don't have his name coming from your mouth what can they really do? you don't have to mention it was your latest T you can say you've had many and one in particular you created a relationship with that crossed boundries.
i wish you the best of luck and hope you find a way about this.
cares
b2c.
Posted by Susan47 on July 29, 2005, at 20:05:39
In reply to Re: Dr. Bob plz respond..., posted by rockymtnhi on July 28, 2005, at 23:57:02
Is it possible you can have appointments in a different city?
This is the end of the thread.
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