06-05-2025
R.I. therapist surrenders license over ‘non-professional relationship' with underage client
The client was a 'student under the age of 18' who resided at the career training and education facility, the order states.
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R.I. Department of Health and the state Board of Mental Health Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists received complaints alleging Vescera was involved in the relationship with the student, according to the order.
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'In the course of RIDOH's investigation into the allegations, [Vescera] submitted false and misleading statements to RIDOH in an effort to conceal her non-professional relationship … and to thwart RIDOH's investigation,' the document states.
In August 2023, RIDOH found the allegations against Vescera were 'reliable' and
The department notified Vescera in March that a hearing would be held to determine whether her license 'should be revoked or otherwise disciplined,' as she was charged with unprofessional conduct as a licensed mental health counselor 'based on violations' of state law and the National Board of Certified Counselors 'Code of Ethics,' the order states.
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Under the terms of the order, Vescera agreed to voluntarily and permanently surrender her license and to fulfill 'any continuing obligations she may have with respect to the handling of client records and the appropriate transfer of client records.'
Vescera could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.
According to court records, Vescera does not face any criminal charges.
Christopher Gavin can be reached at
