Therapist of one and a half years found guily of abuse

Hello all,

I have been in online therapy for over an year now. I thought that this therapy was working better for me than my previous live therapy sessions and felt that I was making good progress. Especially in the first months, I felt almost "enlightened", relieved and extremely grateful I found a good therapist at a very reasonable price for the service.
The nature of my problems included suffering low self esteem and depression as a result of an abusive romantic relationship.
I had seen a psychologist before and dropped out of therapy due to feeling a build up of sexual tension, and being certain that he was flirting with me. I just dropped out and switched to online therapy.
All was good until yesterday. With the exception of a few too personal self-disclosures from my therapist, I thought there were no red flags. However, yesterday, while looking for a professional to see in person to complement this service, yesterday I found the name of my therapist on the list of "revoked licenses" in a registered profession. The details outlined disciplinary actions due to sexually abusing a female client, engaging in a romantic relationship with her and isolating her from her support systems. The allegations were not contested by the therapist, formerly registered within this profession.
Needles to say, this shocked me. I did not know of it. The services provided were not under his license in this profession, but the information obtained made me feel vulnerable and doubting his intentions to help me, even though he has been helpful so far. I feel very confused, as to what steps should I take based on this report. I believe he is a good man and would not abuse another individual. However, this information, as well as a few inappropriate disclosures on his part made me feel doubt.
I am a heterosexual female with a long standing history of emotional, as well as sexual abuse. What are your thoughts on the topic? Thank you in advance.

I actually feel like reading the story of his misbehaviour triggered me to feel at danger. I can not continue receiving services from him, even just online. I have a history of sexually abusive online contacts as well.

I would get out of there immediately. He crossed a boundary which should never be crossed and was found guilty for it. Given your history it's even more important to find a new therapist as you do not want to get attached to a therapist who might take advantage of your vulnerability.

Thank you for your reply.
I got out of there and did a lot of self-help readings. I do not feel that I need therapy at this time, as I am quite stable cognitively and behaviourally
I am glad I cancelled the service, I have actually improved a lot since I did. Maybe it was somehow negatively affecting me. Thank you again.

girly,

I'm glad you gave him the boot! As I kept reading, I grew nervous that you'd give him the benefit of the doubt- even with his personal revelations posing red flags (as they should!). His job is to give you therapy. Sure, my therapist talks about herself from time to time- but I have never learned anything off putting about her, or anything that's personal at all. If a therapist is talking about him or herself, it should be in a manner of describing personal experience to assist you in continued healing.

You write that you no longer need therapy, congratulations! Don't forget to go back to treatment [with an accredited therapist] if you think you're slipping down under.

Best of luck!