Sexual Assault by a Massage Therapist
Massage therapy requires a level of physical trust that few professional settings demand. When a therapist violates that trust, the harm is real — and survivors have legal options.
The Joel Bieber Firm represents survivors of massage therapist sexual assault across Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland and Pennsylvania. Our team handles these cases with the seriousness and sensitivity they deserve.
If you need immediate support, the National Sexual Assault Hotline is available 24/7 at 800.656.HOPE.
This Is More Common Than It Should Be
Sexual misconduct by massage therapists has been documented at independent practices and major national chains alike. When businesses fail to screen staff properly, ignore prior complaints, or create inadequate safety policies, they may share legal responsibility for what happens.
Survivors may have grounds to pursue civil action against the individual therapist, the business that employed them, or both.
Your Legal Options, Simply Put
A civil lawsuit can provide financial compensation for medical costs, therapy, lost income, and pain and suffering. Criminal charges can be pursued at the same time, or separately. An experienced attorney helps you understand which path — or combination of paths — makes sense for your situation.
You don’t have to have reported to police to pursue a civil claim. You don’t have to have all the answers before you call.
Looking for More Detailed Guidance?
If you’re a survivor looking for thorough, step-by-step support — what to do after an assault, how to preserve evidence, what to expect from the legal process, and how to access resources — we’ve built a dedicated space for exactly that.
Why The Joel Bieber Firm
- We work on a contingency fee basis — no upfront costs, and you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you
- Free, confidential consultations with no obligation
- Trauma-informed representation across our full legal team
- Serving Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Maryland, & Pennsylvania
Common Questions and Answers for Therapist Sexual Abuse
Therapist sexual abuse involves any inappropriate sexual behavior by a therapist toward a client. This includes unwanted touching, sexual advances, and coercion into sexual acts under the guise of therapy.
If you feel uncomfortable or violated by your therapist’s actions, it’s crucial to trust your instincts. Signs include inappropriate comments, unnecessary physical contact, and any sexual behavior.
Yes, you can file a civil lawsuit against your therapist for sexual abuse. You may seek compensation for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other related damages.
Compensation may include medical bills, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages for the therapist’s misconduct.
Initially, we need you to provide us with as much information about the incident that led to your injuries as possible. How did the incident happen? Where did it happen? Who was involved? Were there any witnesses? Who did you speak with at the scene of the incident? What was said during the conversation? If you have an Exchange of Information Form, an Incident Report, or any other documents relating to the incident, we would like to have copies. Similarly, we ask that you provide us with any photographs that you may have, including photographs of your car (if you were involved in a car crash) and photographs of your injuries, such as cuts, bruises, and scars. Finally, we need information regarding the kinds of injuries that you sustained, where you have sought treatment, information related to any lost wages, and information as to how the incident has impacted you physically and emotionally.
Personal injury attorneys do not get paid like other attorneys do. While some attorneys charge by the hour or make you pay in advance, personal injury attorneys get paid a percentage of your settlement or jury verdict. This is called a “contingency fee.” Importantly, you do not have to pay us in advance to represent you and we do not get paid for our work until your case is resolved. Working on a contingency basis provides a real benefit to clients because the client’s interests and the law firm’s interests align. We are both focused on maximizing your recovery.
The statute of limitations varies by state, so it’s important to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.
Your attorney will gather evidence, file a lawsuit, and represent you in court. They will guide you through each step, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Look for attorneys specializing in sexual assault cases with a track record of successful outcomes. Many law firms offer free consultations to discuss your case and evaluate your legal options.
A trauma-informed approach involves recognizing the impact of trauma on survivors and providing sensitive, supportive legal services. This ensures survivors feel safe, understood, and empowered throughout the legal process.
In many cases, survivors can file lawsuits anonymously to protect their identities. Discuss your options with your attorney to determine the best approach for your situation.