Citation

Wests North West. Rep. 1984; 342: 128-135.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1984, Thompson West)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12041156

Abstract

In reversing the District Court of Washington County, the Supreme Court of Minnesota declared that statements made by participants in confidential group psychotherapy sessions are within the scope of physician patient privilege, where such sessions are an integral part of the patient's diagnosis and treatment. Thus, in proceedings on charges of criminal sexual conduct, the state was not permitted to obtain statements allegedly made by the defendant in group therapy sessions in an alcoholic treatment facility concerning possible sexual contact with minors. The presence of third parties does not destroy privilege, because it is part of the diagnostic and therapeutic process.

Language: en