58 - When Therapy Turns Predatory

What happens when therapy becomes the ultimate betrayal?

Roxana Eubanks, PsyD—better known as Rox the Doc— unpacks the chilling case of therapist Kristin Marchese, who seduced her patient, Mark Huckeby, during their sessions at a mental health clinic. Already battling bipolar disorder, PTSD, and suicidal ideation, Huckeby spiraled into emotional turmoil—leading to homicidal threats and forcing Marchese to seek a restraining order against him.

Therapy is supposed to be a place of healing, but when power is abused, the consequences are devastating. This episode exposes the ethical violations, psychological wreckage, and predators hiding behind professional titles. Other therapists have crossed the line as well. Complaints against Dr. Ali Sahebi alleged that he conducted group therapy in his home, served whiskey to patients, and engaged in a sexual relationship with a female patient. In July 2024, he was found guilty of unsatisfactory professional conduct and professional misconduct.

In another case, Dr. Daniel Lerom was forced to relinquish his license after being caught billing insurance while having sex with a patient during their sessions. Kristin Marchese was ultimately convicted of two felony counts of sexual exploitation, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in the mental health field.

Rox the Doc shares her own journey from working in corrections to private practice—where firm boundaries aren’t just ethical; they’re essential for survival.

If you need a forensic psychologist to represent you for damages in civil court due to this type of predatory behavior, book a consultation with Dana Anderson at www.psychologydr.com.

Need a therapist you can trust? For therapy services, visit Rox the Doc at www.roxthedoc.com.


Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Forensic Psychology and High-Performance Therapy
02:47 The Journey of Dr. Roxana Eubanks
05:50 Establishing Professional Boundaries in Therapy
09:02 The Importance of Ethical Practices in Psychology
11:50 Justifications for Unethical Behavior in Therapy
15:08 The Impact of Boundary Violations on Clients
18:10 Maintaining Professionalism in High-Stakes Environments
20:50 The Role of Accountability in Clinical Practice
23:55 The Dangers of Emotional Dependency in Therapy
27:07 The Need for Objective Data in Therapy
29:54 Case Study: The Consequences of Boundary Violations
33:02 Conclusion and Resources for Ethical Practice



Credits
Fruedian slip: Therapist jailed for sexual relationship with a patient (Fox6 Milwaukee)

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Disclaimer: This podcast discusses real criminal cases involving trauma, violence, and psychological analysis for educational puposes only. Viewer discretion is advised. Content is not intended as clinical or legal advice.