Limassol, Cyprus. A psychologist was found guilty by the Limassol criminal court on Thursday of sexually abusing a patient under his care. The court convicted the defendant on four charges relating to sexual abuse in a case heard in closed session.
Court findings
The court said the offences were committed against a teenager who was 17 years old and receiving treatment from him. It found that the psychologist abused the complainant’s trust and carried out a series of sexual acts, including kissing her, placing her hand on an intimate part of his body and engaging in a sexual act.
Evidence heard during trial
The court heard that the complainant first began attending sessions while experiencing low self-confidence and strained family relationships. Evidence presented during the trial indicated that her confidence, social interactions and academic performance improved through therapy, leading her to develop deep admiration for the psychologist and view him as a trusted figure in her life.
Boundary violations
Judges found that the defendant gradually blurred professional boundaries by using flattering language, sharing personal experiences and fostering a relationship that extended beyond professional norms. The court heard that he encouraged discussions of a personal and sexual nature, knowing the complainant regarded him as an authority figure whose guidance she trusted.
Further allegations
According to the findings, the defendant suggested that she should become more sexually experienced and made comments about her appearance and behaviour. The court was told that he later proposed a meeting at his residence outside the context of a scheduled therapy session.
