Counselor accused of violating professional boundaries with client

A state licensing board has sanctioned a mental health counselor for allegedly failing to maintain professional boundaries with a client.

According to the Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals, Jerome Miller, who has practiced mental health counseling in Des Moines, was issued a three-year temporary license in August 2022.

The board alleges it fielded complaints alleging Miller’s conduct was unprofessional and demonstrated a failure to maintain professional boundaries with a client.

According to the board, in July 2024, Miller disclosed personal information about himself to a client, which the client stated made them feel uncomfortable. Miller also hugged the client, the board alleged, telling the client they gave “good hugs.” The board says the client also alleged Miller made other inappropriate comments, undisclosed by the board, which Miller denied.

The board charged Miller with engaging in unethical conduct, including, but not limited to, improper sexual contact with a client or making suggestive or improper remarks to a client.

The case was resolved with a settlement in which Miller agreed to accept a warning that any future misconduct could result in additional discipline.

Miller, whose license has expired, also agreed to complete six hours of board-approved education in area of professional boundaries, plus six hours of board-approved education in the area of professionalism.