*Aussie public cautioned over psychotherapist’s mental state in providing counseling
*Charges her clients A$130 per session
The Morning Telegraph can reveal that the Australian woman who falsely accused Sri Lankan cricketer Danushka Gunathilaka of rape, a case that garnered global media attention, continues to practice as a psychotherapist, charging clients A$130 per session. This revelation raises serious concerns about her fitness to provide mental health services.
Even her website, with a message titled “Connection is what makes us human,” seems like an utter mockery considering the circumstances. She met the cricketer on Tinder, had drinks with him, took him home, engaged in consensual sex, and then claimed he raped her.
Danushka Gunathilaka who was accused of rape was totally cleared of all charges.
During the trial, the presiding judge ordered that the complainant’s identity be kept confidential to protect her privacy.
While The Morning Telegraph has identified the complainant, we have chosen to refer to her only by her initials, SR, to prevent potential harm due to the widespread anger and mental distress caused by her false accusations, which severely impacted Gunathilaka’s career and personal life.
SR may have expressed her feelings quite rightly in her website’s profile, but the issue here was less about “connection” and more about “disconnection.”
After initially hitting the cricketer with four charges, she dropped three as the case proceeded, clinging to a single charge of ‘stealthing.’ This accusation meant that the cricketer had removed the condom midway through intercourse after she had consented to protected sex. Stealthing, a newly imposed law in Australia, had many eagerly watching the outcome of this peculiar case.
The primary concern now is whether SR is mentally fit to continue providing counseling services.
Her false claims cast doubt on her trustworthiness and ability to offer reliable counsel to her emotionally vulnerable clients.
According to SR’s professional website, she holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania and a Master of Psychotherapy and Counselling from Western Sydney University. She claims to have police clearance to practice and clearance to work with children, and she is a member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Association of Australia.
While these credentials might appear adequate, the general public in Australia may be urged to report SR to relevant authorities to ensure she has received the necessary counseling and clearance to continue her practice following the trial.
It is crucial that SR undergoes a thorough evaluation by mental health professionals before being entrusted with the care of other patients, especially those suffering from mental health issues.
The Morning Telegraph consulted a reputed psychologist to evaluate SR’s professional claims according to her website titled “Connection is what makes us human.”
Stated below are some points he mentioned that challenges her enticing and marketing statement that assess her suitability as a therapist:
- Contradiction Between Message and Actions: SR’s message seems ironic given her actions. Meeting a cricketer on Tinder, engaging in consensual sex, and then falsely accusing him of rape does not reflect a genuine understanding of meaningful human connection.
- Professional Integrity: The false accusations raise serious questions about SR’s integrity and trustworthiness. A therapist is expected to uphold the highest standards of honesty and ethical behavior, which SR’s actions have clearly violated.
- Emotional Stability: Given the gravity of the false accusations, it is crucial to question SR’s emotional stability. Her ability to provide sound and unbiased counsel to emotionally vulnerable clients is highly questionable.
- Credibility and Trust: SR’s actions have severely damaged her credibility. Trust is a cornerstone of the therapist-client relationship, and her demonstrated capacity for dishonesty undermines her ability to establish and maintain trust with her clients.
- Ethical Practice: Engaging in legal battles over false claims indicates a lack of adherence to ethical practices. Therapists must adhere to a code of ethics, including honesty, integrity, and respect for others. SR’s behavior is a stark departure from these ethical standards.
- Impact on Clients: Clients seeking therapy are often in a vulnerable state and rely on their therapist for support and guidance. SR’s actions suggest that she may not be capable of providing the necessary support, potentially causing more harm than good to her clients.
- Professional Reputation: The publicity surrounding SR’s false accusations has likely tarnished her professional reputation. This negative attention can impact her current and future clients’ perceptions, potentially deterring individuals in need of therapy from seeking her services.
- Legal and Ethical Clearance: While SR claims to have police clearance and membership in professional associations, it is imperative that these clearances be re-evaluated in light of her actions. Ensuring that she meets all legal and ethical requirements is essential for the safety and well-being of her clients.
- Mental Health Evaluation: SR’s mental fitness to practice as a therapist should be thoroughly assessed by independent mental health professionals. This evaluation is crucial to determine if she is capable of providing safe and effective therapy to her clients.
- Public Safety: The general public must be made aware of the potential risks associated with seeking therapy from SR. Authorities should investigate and, if necessary, take action to protect individuals seeking mental health support.
Given the gravity of the false allegations, it is reasonable to question the psychologist’s capacity to provide effective counseling and support. Her license should be reviewed and possibly suspended until she undergoes a thorough evaluation by other professionals in the field to ensure she is fit to practice. Ensuring the safety and well-being of clients should be the primary concern.
