A B.C. massage therapist has been ordered to pay a $5,000 fine and $20,000 in costs after the College of Massage Therapists of B.C. found he sexually touched female patients.
A college disciplinary committee imposed the highest sanctions on Robert Morgan October 26, including registration cancellation, to tell both the profession and the public that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
“Mr. Morgan abused his position of power, authority and trust, and Mr. Morgan misled his patients,” a statement from the college said.
The committee cited the cases of three patients in its findings.
It said in September 2015, Morgan massaged Patient 1’s breasts for a non-therapeutic purpose; and failed to provide appropriate draping, by lifting the drape and exposing the patient’s breasts as she turned from a prone to an upward facing position.
The college found that in April 2017 Morgan failed to describe appropriate disrobing and/or draping options and stated words to the effect that “it is a full body massage so clothes will get in the way.” Further, it said he massaged or otherwise touched Patient 2’s body for a non-therapeutic purpose, and failed to provide appropriate draping for parts of the patient’s body not being treated.
The panel found that in February 2017, Morgan told Patient 3 it was necessary to expose her breast to provide treatment when it was untrue, massaged or otherwise touched Patient 3 for a non-therapeutic purpose and failed to provide appropriate draping.
In all cases, the college found Morgan committed ethical and professional misconduct.
He cannot re-apply for registration for five years and, to do so, must first complete a remedial education course.
Morgan has 30 days to appeal the decision.
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