Sexual Abuse 201: Boundaries, Ethics & Patient Management
The Sexual Abuse 201 webinar, part of the College’s Regulatory Education Program (REP), provided an exploration of professional boundaries and violations in naturopathic practice. Building on the knowledge from our previous REP session, Identifying the Lines Governing Sexual Abuse, this session helped participants understand how boundary violations—intentional or not—can occur and the serious consequences they carry.
Attendees gained a deeper understanding of professional boundaries, ethical responsibilities, and the regulatory framework for sexual abuse prevention. Presenters reviewed key expectations under the RHPA, the Naturopathy Act, 2007, the College’s Standards of Practice, and Code of Ethics, with a focus on dual relationships, friendships with patients, and working with vulnerable individuals.
Key takeaways included:
- An understanding of the regulatory and ethical framework for preventing sexual abuse.
- Identifying and navigating boundary challenges and dual relationships.
- Strategies for managing complex professional interactions.
- Enhanced ethical decision-making through scenario-based examples.
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PRESENTERS
Jeremy Quesnelle
Deputy CEO, Regulation
Jeremy Quesnelle is the Deputy CEO, Regulation of the College of Naturopaths of Ontario. Jeremy began his work with the College in 2011, 4 years prior to the proclamation of the Naturopathy Act, 2007. During that time Jeremy’s focus was on regulation, standard, policy, and program development in the areas of Quality Assurance, Complaint, Discipline, Inspections, Patient Relations, and Controlled Acts. Since proclamation of the Naturopathy Act, 2007 in 2015 Jeremy has overseen the College’s professional practice and professional conduct departments as well as supporting the CEO in the day-to-day operations and governance of the College.
Dr. Shelly Burns
Naturopathic Doctor
Dr. Shelley Burns, ND is co-owner of Pomegranate Healthcare, a multidisciplinary clinic in Toronto. With extensive experience in executive health, she collaborates with physicians to support clients in achieving peak wellness.
She completed the four-year program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM), receiving the NaturoMedic Award for proficiency in naturopathic medicine. She also holds a BA in Psychology and Philosophy from Wilfrid Laurier University, a certification in Complementary and Integrative Medicine from Harvard Medical School, and a Master of Laws in Health Law from Osgoode Hall Law School.
Shelley is a past chair of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and currently serves on the Registration Committee of the College. She supervises at the Robert Schad Naturopathic Clinic (RSNC) and has contributed to Skin Deep magazine, Maclean’s, The Toronto Star, and The Medical Post. She has also appeared on CTV and spoken at healthcare conferences across North America on naturopathic and preventive medicine.