Psychology In Seattle Podcast Bad Therapists (2021 Rerun)
Feb 24, 2026
A rerun that reviews several cases of unethical therapists and the consequences they faced. Topics include sexual coercion by a counselor, blurred client boundaries when treating families, and dangerous therapist-business entanglements. There is also a focus on documentation failures, licensing board sanctions, and how clinicians should consult and protect clients.
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Counselor Coerced Client Into Sex Instead Of Payment
- Kirk Honda recounts a substance abuse counselor who coerced a probationary client into sex as payment for $50 weekly sessions.
- The counselor and client had sex after each session for months, leading to a permanent license revocation and defense costs exceeding policy limits.
Never Leverage Client Vulnerability For Sex
- Avoid sexual relationships with clients and never leverage their legal or financial vulnerability for sex or services.
- Honda emphasizes coercion (client on probation, ordered to treatment) makes this especially egregious and warrants permanent revocation or criminal charges.
Sexual Misconduct Drives Most Liability Claims
- Honda notes 32% of professional liability claims involve sexual or romantic interactions with current clients or their close contacts.
- He contrasts that high rate with trivial student fears (like a $5 gift card) to show what actually drives severe discipline.