Business Review Defamation

**cp1979** · 03-15-2010, 03:18 PM

My question involves defamation in the state of: North Carolina.

I had a horrifying experience with a psychotherapist. She was abusive and sessions with her caused me extensive damage.

I posted the comment as listed below on a business review website. Would the comment listed below be considered defamation of character? Is there any way it could be considered criminal defamation of character?

Thanks for your attention, cp1979

She seems to have very poor listening skills. She often jumped to conclusions and made a lot of crude assumptions about me. It seemed she did not think it was necessary to hear me describe my situation fully. I don't think she thought it was necessary to understand how I was feeling and thinking about anything. She and I never had a give & take dialogue- where she actually responds to what I'm saying and expresses empathy. I think she was responding to the judgements she made about me. I often felt invisible during my sessions with her. Sometimes she came across as someone who had suppressed anger.

**Mr. Knowitall** · 03-16-2010, 08:56 PM

Nobody here is going to "green light" the statement. If you are worried enough to ask, why not follow your instincts?

**KeyWestDan** · 03-16-2010, 09:03 PM

Well, a few things. In my opinion it is not defamation as it is virtually all opinion.

I don't see how any legal action could be taken by a professional who has a doctor/patient obligation, though perhaps it could be argued you broke it first, but I don't think it works that way.

However, if you can't afford to be sued and spend lots of time in civil court, then you should probably refrain from making such posts. I can assure you the doctor has insurance and adequate money to sue you into the ground if so desired.

No, it is not criminal. That is absurd. Although some states still have criminal libel statutes on the books they are not used and would not apply in a situation like this.

Now, if you are in England, we can't help you. Save up your money though, because you are much more likely to be sued there.