What is the role of the board in license revocation related to sexual contact with a patient?

• A. To provide counseling for the counselor
• B. To revoke the license if sexual contact is found
• C. To suspend the license temporarily
• D. To evaluate the counselor's practice for further actions

Answer: (B)

The role of the board in license revocation related to sexual contact with a patient is primarily to revoke the license if sexual contact is found. This is grounded in the ethical and legal standards that govern the behavior of licensed professionals. Inappropriate sexual contact between a counselor and a patient constitutes a significant breach of trust and ethical guidelines, as the counselor holds a position of power and influence over the patient.

The board's responsibility is to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the counseling profession, and revocation serves as a necessary disciplinary action in cases where a counselor has violated these standards. Such actions are taken to prevent potential harm to patients and to uphold the ethical framework that guides the practice of counseling.

While other options may involve aspects of a counselor's professional conduct or temporary measures, such as evaluation or suspension, the definitive action of revoking the license stands out as a critical response to serious violations like sexual contact with a patient. The board's primary duty is to safeguard clients and ensure that those who are unfit to practice due to ethical breaches do not continue to operate within the profession.