On May 5, 2021, the Florida Department of Health ordered the emergency restriction of the license of Clermont school psychologist, Dr. Clinton Eugene Sims. The Emergency Order restricts Sims from working as a school psychologist in the State of Florida. It alleges that he had sex with a female patient who was a former student he counseled at Montverde Academy. Sims received his license to practice as a school psychologist in September 2004.
UPDATE: In August 2022, Clinton Sims surrendered his professional license. Per Department of Health regulations, this constitutes a disciplinary action against Dr. Sims. He may never re-apply for licensure as a medical provider in the State of Florida. In December 2022, the Department of Health entered a Final Order accepting the relinquishment of Dr. Sims' license.
According to the Order, Sims started counseling the 15-year old girl in February 2016 when she was a student at Montverde Academy. Despite later transferring from the school, the girl continued treatment with Sims in his private office through 2020. In 2019, Sims allegedly told her that he thought she was attractive, and sent her multiple sexually explicit messages. The state alleges that Sims had "sexual intercourse and/or sexual behavior" with her in December 2020 and January 2021.
Florida law allows the state surgeon general to restrict a health care provider's license upon a finding that the person poses an immediate danger to public health, safety, or welfare. The Order said, "Dr. Sims' actions and disregard for the health of Patient show that he does not have the judgment or moral character to hold a position of power and trust. Dr. Sims' blatant disregard for the laws and rules regulating his profession indicates that this behavior is likely to continue."
Finding the right mental health care provider can be challenging. We seek out seasoned medical professionals who possess a good bedside manner, compassion and empathy. When we do finally decide on one, we hope to feel better over time, not be violated by the very person with whom we place our trust. Doctors hold a position of power in the physician-patient relationship under Florida law. It is both unacceptable and unlawful for a healthcare professional to touch a patient in any sexual manner or practice any sexual misconduct while treating the patient.
Horowitz Law has filed numerous sexual misconduct claims against medical professionals on behalf of patients who were inappropriately touched in their care. Under no circumstances is a psychologist permitted to have sexual contact with a patient. If you have been a victim of sexual assault or sexual battery at a medical office or facility, or if you know someone who has, please contact our law firm at 888-283-9922 or send an e-mail to sexual abuse lawyer Adam Horowitz at adam@adamhorowitzlaw.com for a free consultation.