Reviewing a Disciplinary Case on Suicidality, Erotic
Transference, and Between-Session Communication: How do therapists hold
appropriate boundaries?
Curt and Katie chat about a disciplinary case against Dr. Eric Bergeman,
highlighting key ethical concerns for therapists. They explore documentation
practices, therapist responsibilities, and boundary management, particularly in
cases involving suicidality and erotic transference. The conversation
underscores the importance of clear treatment planning, proper record-keeping,
and ethical decision-making to avoid legal and professional consequences. This
is a continuing education podcourse.
Transcripts
for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!
In this podcast episode we talk about suicidality,
erotic transference, between-session communication, and documentation
Therapists are given conflicting advice on when their duties
to patients begin, how much they are expected to be available to clients
outside of sessions, how they are to approach between-session communications,
and how to document such communications. This episode explores a disciplinary
case where the California Board of Psychology investigated a therapist’s
responses to a client that filed a complaint about the therapist’s treatment.
What therapists need to know about ethical boundaries and disciplinary
actions:
The importance of proper documentation and clear treatment planning.
How to respond to client suicidality in real-time, including assessment and intervention.
Managing erotic transference with ethical boundaries and consultation.
The role of Board of Psychology investigations in evaluating therapist conduct.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Bergeman’s Disciplinary Case:
The Board of Psychology found gross negligence due to poor documentation, inadequate diagnosis, and lack of clear therapeutic boundaries.
Dr. Bergeman failed to properly address the client’s suicidality and borderline personality disorder, leading to ethical concerns.
Consultation with another therapist revealed concerns about Bergeman’s treatment approach and lack of structured intervention.
The Board initially sought a fine of $103,000, later reducing it to $10,363, citing good intentions but significant professional oversights.
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#TherapyMovement:
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Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/