18 Va. Admin. Code § 85-130-160

Current through Register Vol. 40, No. 22, June 17, 2024

Section 18VAC85-130-160 - Sexual contact

A. For purposes of § 54.1-2915A 12 and A 19 of the Code of Virginia and this section, sexual contact includes, but is not limited to, sexual behavior or verbal or physical behavior that:

1. May reasonably be interpreted as intended for the sexual arousal or gratification of the practitioner, the client, or both; or

2. May reasonably be interpreted as romantic involvement with a client regardless of whether such involvement occurs in the professional setting or outside of it.

B. Sexual contact with a client.

1. The determination of when a person is a client for purposes of § 54.1-2915A 19 of the Code of Virginia is made on a case-by-case basis with consideration given to the nature, extent, and context of the professional relationship between the practitioner and the person. The fact that a person is not actively receiving treatment or professional services from a practitioner is not determinative of this issue. A person is presumed to remain a client until the client-practitioner relationship is terminated.

2. The consent to, initiation of, or participation in sexual behavior or involvement with a practitioner by a client does not change the nature of the conduct nor negate the statutory prohibition.

C. Sexual contact between a practitioner and a former client after termination of the practitioner-client relationship may still constitute unprofessional conduct if the sexual contact is a result of the exploitation of trust, knowledge, or influence of emotions derived from the professional relationship.

D. Sexual contact between a practitioner and a key third party shall constitute unprofessional conduct if the sexual contact is a result of the exploitation of trust, knowledge or influence derived from the professional relationship or if the contact has had or is likely to have an adverse effect on client care. For purposes of this section, key third party of a client shall mean: spouse or partner, parent or child, guardian, or legal representative of the client.

E. Sexual contact between a supervisor and a trainee or apprentice shall constitute unprofessional conduct if the sexual contact is a result of the exploitation of trust, knowledge or influence derived from the professional relationship or if the contact has had or is likely to have an adverse effect on client care.

18 Va. Admin. Code § 85-130-160

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 10, eff. February 21, 2007.

Statutory Authority

§§ 54.1-2400 and 54.1-2957.9 of the Code of Virginia.