In this compelling episode of The Desperate for a Diagnosis Podcast, host Laura Nozicka welcomes attorney Scott Hammer, a legal expert who has represented mental health professionals for over 40 years. Known for his sharp insight and extensive experience, having handled more than 2,000 cases, Scott shares an unfiltered look into the legal challenges that psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and therapists face today.
Hear Scott detail the most common reasons mental health providers get sued, including suicide-related cases, medication errors, breaches of confidentiality, and boundary violations. He pulls back the curtain on some of the most shocking and ethically complex cases he’s encountered, from therapists having inappropriate relationships with patients to questionable uses of alternative treatments like ketamine and ecstasy.
This episode also explores how societal shifts from increased openness about therapy to the influence of social media have changed the landscape of mental health treatment and litigation. Scott provides practical advice for both clinicians and patients, emphasizing the importance of boundaries, documentation, and trust.
With stories that range from tragic to downright bizarre, this episode offers critical insights into a world where compassion and caution must coexist.
🎙️ Bonus: Scott shares his love for blues music and his 28-year run as host of Hambone's Blues Party on WDCB 90.9 FM.
Topics Include:
- Boundary violations and dual relationships
- Suicide and the legal expectations placed on therapists
- Confidentiality breaches in the digital age
- The legal risks of non-traditional therapies
- Why therapists must remain vigilant and supported in their practice
- Advice for families and patients navigating mental health systems
Connect with Scott Hammer: Scott.Hammer@wilsonelser.com
Connect with Laura Nozicka
Email: lauramarie@desperateforadiagnosis.com
Website: www.desperateforadiagnosis.com
YouTube @desperateforadiagnosis
Instagram @desperateforadiagnosis
TikTok @desperateforadiagnosis
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.