Click Here For Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of Clients by Professionals - Victim/Survivor/Prevention Resources

Sexual Exploitation and Abuse of Clients by Professionals - Victim/Survivor/Prevention Resources: "Mental health professionals, psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, therapists, doctors, nurses, clergy, attorneys, professors, educators, social workers, law enforcement officers, or other professionals who either pursue or even allow a sexual relationship to develop with their patients/clients often are taking advantage of an inherent power imbalance in the relationship. Sexual exploitation does not always include sexual contact -- it can happen in a variety of behaviors by the professional. Frequently this is an exploitation of the client's trust or emotional dependency and/or their need for the professional's help. Sometimes it is the result of the professional imposing coercive power over the client. Either way, this is considered abuse, even if the client was a 'consenting' participant at the time. It is an abuse of the client's trust and dependence on the professional. It also is a betrayal of the trust imparted on the professional by society. This form of abuse often deeply violates clients and sometimes causes tremendous spiritual, emotional, and psychological harm. "