Psychotherapist permanently banned after sexual relationship with patient

A psychotherapist has been permanently barred from practicing in healthcare after engaging in a sexual relationship with a client. The pair consumed alcohol together, and she gave him 1,000 euros, while also disclosing information about other clients. The disciplinary court in Den Bosch removed her from the official healthcare register and imposed a complete professional ban earlier this week.

The disciplinary court concluded that the woman committed boundary-crossing behavior. In 2023, the man came to her for treatment for psychological issues stemming from childhood sexual abuse. She assessed him as “depressed, suicidal, and anxious.”

A few months into the treatment, the man’s suicidal tendencies intensified, prompting closer contact with the therapist. They began exchanging dozens of messages daily, discussing personal issues in each other’s relationships. The conversation turned sexual, and the two eventually engaged in a sexual relationship.

In early 2024, the man was admitted to a psychiatric hospital, where he disclosed the situation to his wife and the medical staff. The Health and Youth Care Inspectorate was notified. He told the inspectors that he felt unable to refuse because he feared his treatment would be terminated.

The psychotherapist told the disciplinary panel that she believed the sexual contact had a positive effect on the patient, saying he became less suicidal and more motivated to live.

The disciplinary panel concluded that the woman failed to acknowledge her misconduct. The judges expressed concern that she engaged in sexual activity with the patient “to stop him from acting on suicidal thoughts.”