Victimized by Victims: False Complaints Against Psychotherapists

by Martin H. Williams, Ph.D.

One Hour Home Study Course

May 22, 2004

Clinical practice in the United States has become increasingly complex and contentious. Therapists are increasingly called upon to render opinions in high conflict situations like divorce, child custody, criminal offenders, child abuse, personal injury, and a host of other hostile and litigious situations.

The increasing power and influence of a psychotherapist’s opinion places the professional at risk of disappointing clients or family members, who may seek some way to counter or even punish the opinion. Psychotherapists may also render decisions that impact the client’s income sources like disability payments or workers compensation. In some circumstances a client’s civil right may be suspended based upon the opinion of a clinical professional.

Mental health professionals have been successful in their efforts to become part of the medical team. Yet as in the rest of medicine, malpractice claims and regulatory board investigations are increasing. Many of the claims are legitimate, and responsible professionals want those who do wrong to be held accountable. However, along with the increase in legitimate claims come the illegitimate claims. False claims fueled by greed, opportunity, vengeance, disappointment, or even the very pathology that is been treated. In fact, the very process of exonerating a falsely charged clinician can be traumatic, destructive, and expensive.

The following article was written by Martin H. Williams, a psychologist in private clinical and forensic practice. Dr. Williams describes from research and his experience a taxonomy of the antecedents of false complaints against psychotherapists.

This is a one hour continuing education home study program. To obtain credit and a certificate you will read the article, complete the quiz, complete the evaluation, and submit the materials to Michael Freeny Associates at the address listed above by email, fax, or mail. The cost is $20.

At the end of this program the participant will be able to

• Identify common motivations for filing false claims 
• Describe case examples of false claims investigation. 
• List ways to defend against a false claim.

Order CE program here.

Freeny Associates is approved by the American Psychological Association to provide continuing education for psychologists. MF Associates maintains responsibility for the program.

Florida Board of LCSW/LMFT/LMHC CE Provider BAP 318 Exp 3/05