Uncovering Unregulated Therapists: Breaking the Silence on Sexual Abuse

A Sussex therapist, Gerald Peck, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for his conviction on five sexual offences. This verdict comes as a major breakthrough in the fight against unregulated therapists who continue to manipulate and sexually abuse clients.

The victim, who came forward in 2021, reported how Peck, a former bioenergetics practitioner, used his position to sexually abuse her under the guise of therapy. Despite being banned from practising in the 1980s, Peck continued to deceive clients, claiming that he could heal birth trauma through sexual touching and oral sex.

The case highlights the alarming lack of regulation in the therapy profession, leaving vulnerable individuals exposed to quacks who exploit their trust. Nogah Ofer, a lawyer at the Centre for Women's Justice, stressed that the difficulty in bringing this case to court is a concern, as there are many more therapists who are convincing clients that sexual contact is a form of healing.

The long fight for justice in this case has been traumatic for the victim, who has lived with constant worry that other women are still being harmed by Peck. Her courage in coming forward has sparked a renewed call for formal oversight of the profession and the implementation of mandatory regulation to prevent harm to the public.

Leigh Day human rights solicitor Catriona Rubens has stated that since working with Ella Janneh, who won damages after accusing her therapist of raping her, she has been contacted by numerous individuals reporting sexual and emotional abuse from therapists. She urges UK therapy and counselling membership bodies to back Janneh's campaign for mandatory regulation.

As the fight against unregulated therapists continues, it is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of unregulated therapy and the need for safeguarding measures to protect vulnerable individuals. By working together, we can break the silence on sexual abuse and ensure that justice is served for those who have been harmed.