Lessons from the Nagpur Psychologist Case: How Not to Get into the Trap of Quacks

Recently an incident took place in Nagpur where a so-called psychologist (quack) was arrested for exploiting his clients and students under the guise of therapy. This incident has not only shaken the trust of common people but has also undermined the credibility of mental health profession. This accused person was not a registered mental health professional under Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). This tragic case highlights the need for vigilance when seeking therapy and underscores the importance of ethical practices in psychology.
Such incidents remind us about the importance of identifying a genuine professional before seeking therapy or counselling session. As a psychologist, I feel it is my responsibility to help individuals distinguish genuine professionals from quacks and to emphasize the ethical responsibilities of psychologists.
Here is a guide on how to identify a genuine professional and the best practices to be followed by psychologist which can prevent ethical issues –
1. Ethical Issues in Such Cases
This incident not only reveals exploitation but also calls attention to the severe ethical breaches that harm the integrity of the profession:
- Violation of Trust: A therapist holds a position of authority and trust, and abusing this dynamic is unethical and harmful.
- Exploitation of Vulnerability: Clients seek therapy when they are emotionally vulnerable. Exploiting this for personal or financial gain is inexcusable.
- Lack of Accountability: Practicing without proper credentials or oversight allows quacks to operate unchecked.
1. How to Identify a Genuine Therapist
Here are some steps to ensure you’re consulting a qualified and ethical therapist:
- Check Credentials: Verify that the therapist is licensed and registered with a recognized authority like the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) or the State Licensing Boards.
- Ask About Qualifications: Genuine psychologists hold degrees in Clinical Psychology (M.Phil. or Psy D.) or related fields from accredited institutions.
- Understand the Scope of Practice: A clinical psychologist offers psychotherapy for psychological disorders whereas a counselling psychology offers counselling to deal with mild undiagnosable problems like academic stress etc. Be cautious of those who are promising guaranteed results or unusual, unverifiable techniques.
- Research Reviews and Recommendations: Look for testimonials or reviews from verified sources. Seek recommendations from trusted medical professionals or friends.
- Be Cautious About Costs: Exorbitant fees, especially for unproven therapies, can be a red flag. Legitimate practitioners maintain transparency about their charges.
- Confirm Consent and Confidentiality: Ethical therapists obtain informed consent before starting therapy and prioritize your confidentiality.
3. Best Practices for Psychologists
To ensure the highest standards of practice and restore trust, psychologists must:
- Adhere to Ethical Guidelines: Follow the ethical codes established by bodies like the American Psychological Association (APA) or RCI.
- Maintain Transparency: Clearly explain therapy techniques, objectives, and limitations.
- Ensure Professional Development: Stay updated with the latest developments in the field through continuous education.
- Provide Informed Consent: Obtain clients’ explicit consent and explain their rights, including the right to discontinue therapy.
- Report Unethical Practices: If you suspect unethical behaviour by a peer, report it to the relevant authorities like – Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) or Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP).
- Build Awareness: Conduct community workshops to educate the public about legitimate therapy practices and the importance of seeking help from licensed professionals.
The Way Ahead
The Nagpur case is a grim reminder of the harm caused by unethical practices and the urgent need for awareness. Clients must remain vigilant, and therapists must uphold the highest ethical standards to ensure the safety and well-being of those who seek their help. By working together, we can create a safe and trustworthy environment for mental health care.
I like your thoughts presented on the very pertinent issue