Report: Utah therapist accused of sexually abusing gay patients

Allegations of sexual abuse have emerged in Utah, where a therapist recommended by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is accused of exploiting gay patients, as uncovered in a comprehensive investigation by ProPublica in collaboration with The Salt Lake Tribune

The damning report discloses the troubling accounts of several former members of the Church who claim they were sexually assaulted by a therapist referred to them by the religious institution. Identified as Scott Owen, the therapist allegedly took advantage of the vulnerability of these individuals grappling with their sexual orientation.

The revelations have triggered intense discussions regarding the relationship between religious guidance, mental health support, and the safety of LGBTQ+ individuals within faith-based settings. The victims, once seeking solace within the Church’s teachings, now find themselves as survivors of a deeply distressing ordeal.

Scott Owen is alleged to have violated the trust of his patients, engaging in various forms of sexual abuse and exploitation during therapy sessions that were meant to provide guidance and understanding. The victims, who had already faced challenges reconciling their sexuality with their faith, experienced further trauma at the hands of the therapist they were urged to consult.

In 2015, one of the survivors, identified by the pseudonym Andrew, confided in his bishop about his homosexuality and was directed by the Church to seek therapy from Owen.

The Church’s official stance acknowledges that same-sex attraction is not sinful, although same-sex marriage remains incompatible with its doctrine.

Owen allegedly subjected Andrew to unwanted sexual advances during their therapy sessions over a five-month period. The therapist’s actions included groping, kissing, and pressuring Andrew to undress.

Utah’s legal framework categorizes sexual touching during therapy as illegal and constitutes “unprofessional conduct.” Such actions can result in the revocation of a professional’s license and other legal consequences.

Andrew’s attempt to seek justice and accountability led him to disclose the abuse to his bishop and Utah’s Division of Professional Licensing. However, his journey through the legal process has been tumultuous. Andrew’s report to the DOPL detailed his feelings of disgust and his determination to avoid returning to the therapist’s office.

In November 2016, the DOPL took action against Owen following an admission that he had engaged in inappropriate behavior, including giving hugs and “non-sexual” touching. The DOPL issued a public reprimand, but Owen denied the more serious allegations, referring to them as a “concocted story.”

The DOPL’s response has come under scrutiny. The agency claims that it had no knowledge of Owen’s actions for years before disciplinary action was taken. The investigative process revealed conflicting accounts from the victim and the therapist. The subsequent reprimand required Owen to attend an educational session and undergo ethical behavior training.

In 2018, the DOPL received another complaint against Owen, which led to a broader investigation and the revelation of additional victims. Owen eventually surrendered his license, signifying acknowledgment of his alleged misconduct.

ProPublica’s investigation also highlighted accounts from other victims, with Jonathan Scott alleging that his therapy sessions devolved into inappropriate physical contact, including cuddling. The report further revealed that another member of the Church accused Owen of sexual abuse after entering therapy.

Owen eventually surrendered his license after continuing scrutiny.

Victims like Jonathan Scott and Andrew have since distanced themselves from the Church. However, feelings of justice remain elusive for the survivors, emphasizing the need for comprehensive institutional reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals seeking support. Q