State issues charges against psychotherapist James Rapson for sex with client

October 29, 2010

On August 16, 2010, the Washington Department of Health (DOH) issued a Statement of Charges against marriage and family therapist James A. Rapson. 

The Board’s document states that Rapson provided mental health therapy to a 40-year-old woman with whom he agreed to provide “alternative therapy,” which included holding hands and hugging the client as part of his therapeutic approach. 

Rapson terminated therapy with the client after failing to address the client’s romantic fantasies but engaged in sexual contact with the client a few weeks later and continued a relationship with her from approximately March 2007 until August 2009. 

Additionally, the Board found that Rapson’s treatment notes were neither sufficient nor consistent enough for responsible clinical practice.  

Source: Statement of Charges in the Matter of James A. Rapson, Credential No. MFT.LF.00001324, Case No. M2009-1506, Washington Department of Health.