Our New Jersey based Lawyer discusses legal options if you’ve been abused by a therapist.
As a group of legal professionals working for victims in New Jersey, we have seen the devastating impact of therapist abuse on victims. It is a form of professional malpractice that can leave deep emotional scars and can hinder the healing process. New Jersey State alone has over 4,200 licensed therapist, mostly good professionals, yet we still hear of a few bad apples.
Victims of sexually abusive therapists often feel helpless, betrayed, and confused. They have placed their trust in a professional, only to have that trust violated in the most intimate way possible. On this subject, we’ll discuss how our lawyers at the Schmidt National Law Group can help victims of sexually abusive therapists seek compensation for their trauma and the steps involved in this process.
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Introduction to Sexually Abusive Therapists and Therapist Abuse Professional Malpractice
Sexual abuse by therapists is a serious problem that affects many people across the entire state of Virginia. Legally speaking it can be defined as follows:
It refers to any form of sexual contact between a therapist and their patient, including touching, kissing, or even sexual intercourse. This type of behavior is a clear violation of the professional boundaries that should exist between therapists and their patients.
Examples and signs of abuse sometimes manifests in the therapist’s business practice as:
– Has offered services for free or at a very low cost compared to other professionals.
– Has scheduled your appointment last in the day or even after clinic business hours.
– Fictitious billing of insurance for non-existence treatments or sessions.
– Therapy sessions that run over time.
– Practitioner seems aloof or not paying attention, maybe checks their phone in sessions.
– Therapists invite clients to outside events such as dining, attending a show or movie.
Sexual abuse by therapists is considered professional malpractice, and victims have the right to seek compensation for the harm that has been done to them. This includes compensation for medical bills, therapy expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding the Legal Options for Victims of Therapist Abuse
Victims of therapist abuse have several legal options available to them. One option is to file a complaint with the therapist’s licensing board in New Jersey. This can lead to disciplinary action against the therapist, including revocation of their license.
Another option is to file a lawsuit against the therapist for professional malpractice in the state of New Jersey. In this case, the victim would need to prove that the therapist breached their professional duty by engaging in sexual contact with the patient and that this breach caused harm to the patient.
Our team understands this is a difficult process, and understand we are behind you 100%.
Victims of therapist abuse may also be able to file a claim against the therapist’s employer, such as a clinic or hospital. This is because the employer may be liable for the actions of its employees.
Steps to Take When Seeking Compensation for Therapist Abuse
If you are a victim of therapist abuse, there are several steps you can take when seeking compensation. The first step is to seek medical attention and therapy to address any physical and emotional harm that has been done to you. It is important to document all of your medical and therapy expenses.
The next step is to gather evidence of the therapist’s inappropriate behavior (the discovery phase). This can include emails, text messages, or other forms of communication between you and the therapist. It is also important to gather witness statements from anyone who may have witnessed the inappropriate behavior against you. Understand that the statute of limitations in New Jersey State is 3 years.
Once you have gathered evidence, this is where our sex therapist abuse lawyers step in. Only a qualified Sex abuse lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and advocate for your rights. We can also advise you on the best course of action for seeking compensation.
The Role of a Sex Therapist Abuse Lawyer in Seeking Justice for Victims
Our team of sex therapist abuse lawyers from Schmidt National Law Group can play a critical role in helping victims seek justice for the harm that has been done to them. We help victims navigate the legal system and ensure that their rights are protected.
A lawyer can also help victims understand their legal options and advise them on the best course of action. We also provide and help victims file complaints with the therapist’s licensing board, file lawsuits against the therapist, or file claims against the therapist’s employer.
In addition, our lawyers can help victims negotiate a settlement with the therapist or their employer. This can help victims avoid the stress and uncertainty of going to trial.
Case Studies of Successful Compensation Claims for Therapist Abuse
There have been many successful compensation claims for therapist abuse in recent years. One notable case involved a therapist who engaged in sexual contact with multiple patients. The victims were able to file a lawsuit against the therapist and his employer, and they were awarded a substantial settlement.
Another case involved a therapist who engaged in sexual contact with a patient during a therapy session. The victim was able to file a complaint with the therapist’s licensing board, and the therapist’s license was revoked.
The Importance of Therapy and Support for Victims of Therapist Abuse
Therapy and support are crucial for victims of therapist abuse. Victims may experience a range of emotions, including anger, shame, and guilt. They may also experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Therapy can help victims process their emotions and begin the healing process. It can also help victims develop coping skills and strategies for dealing with the trauma.
Support groups can also be helpful for victims of therapist abuse. These groups provide a safe space for victims to connect with others who have experienced similar trauma.
How to Find a Qualified Sex Therapist Abuse Lawyer in Abused by a Therapist or Counselor? Lawsuits & Lawyer Options in New Jersey:
If you are a victim of therapist abuse, it is important to find a qualified New Jersey sex therapist abuse lawyer to help you seek justice. Here is the process in filing a therapist sex abuse case:
- Step 1. Contact our law firm by calling and speaking with a legal representative at 1-800-631-5656 or use the 100% secure contact form on this page.
- Step 2. You may feel the need to contact other therapists in order to heal, and we encourage you to seek a new therapist and create a new healthy relationship. Be sure to check references, do Google name checks and look at reviews for the practitioner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Therapist Abuse and Compensation Claims
Here are some frequently asked questions about therapist abuse and compensation claims:
- What is therapist abuse? Therapist abuse refers to any form of sexual contact between a therapist and their patient.
- What legal options do victims of therapist abuse have? Victims of therapist abuse can file complaints with the therapist’s licensing board, file lawsuits against the therapist, or file claims against the therapist’s employer.
- What kind of compensation can victims of therapist abuse receive? Victims of therapist abuse can receive compensation for medical bills, therapy expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- How long do victims of therapist abuse have to file a claim? The statute of limitations for therapist abuse claims varies by state, but it is typically between 1-4 years.
Resources for Victims of Therapist Abuse
There are many resources available for victims of therapist abuse. Here are some organizations that can provide support and assistance:
- RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
- The National Center for Victims of Crime
- Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP)
Call to Action for Justice and Accountability in the Therapy Industry
Sexual abuse by therapists is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for victims. As legal professionals, we have a responsibility to advocate for justice and accountability in the therapy industry, no matter where the abuse took place in New Jersey, contact us today for a few review of the situation.
If you are a victim of therapist abuse, know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you seek justice and begin the healing process. If you are a therapist, it is important to maintain professional boundaries and uphold ethical standards to ensure that your patients receive the care they deserve.
Let us work together to ensure that justice is served and that victims of therapist abuse receive the compensation and support they need to heal.
We understand the situation may be difficult to talk about, but rest assured by taking legal action against these abusive therapist, you very well be saving someone else extensive pain and suffering. We will take legal action and hold them accountable. We keep all information about your case 100% private. There is no shame on your part, you were mislead and taken advantage of, start the healing process by taking action today.
Sex Abuse by a Therapist or Counselor, New Jersey Lawsuits & Lawyer Options page updated on March 28, 2023

