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A therapist who developed sexual relationships with female clients - in one case, conducting an affair while also treating the woman's husband - has been labelled a "sexual predator", but health authorities are powerless to stop him practising.
Geoffrey Mogridge was yesterday named by the Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner, who said she was concerned about risk to the public if he continued to practice.
"I view Mr Mogridge's behaviour as that of a sexual predator, not a 'sick puppy' as he has euphemistically stated," said Deputy Commissioner Tania Thomas.
Mr Mogridge last night told the Herald he was still working as a natural therapies practitioner on the North Shore, but no longer offered counselling services or massage.
He denied being a risk to the public and said the relationships investigated by the commissioner carried on for 10 months and were consensual.
Mr Mogridge said he would never again have sex with clients. "These are learning curves. You don't see there's anything wrong at the time."
Ms Thomas said Mr Mogridge was an unregistered health care provider and the commissioner's powers were limited. She chose to publicly name him, "in light of my concerns about protection of the public".
Mr Mogridge would be referred to the Director of Proceedings to consider whether he should go before the Human Rights Review Tribunal.
The tribunal can award compensation, issue restraining orders and various other directions, such as requiring a health care provider to undergo remedial training.
The commissioner investigated three complaints against Mr Mogridge, including two from a husband and wife who went to him in 2003.
Mr Mogridge started a sexual relationship with the woman, a victim of rape, and later told her husband, whom he also treated, of the affair.
"We were both just enjoying each other's company and doing some work at the same time," Mr Mogridge last night said of the affair. "I made it very clear about separation and the boundaries between the two."
Mr Mogridge became involved with another client, a woman who had suffered sexual abuse, around the same time. He claimed the woman became upset because she found out about the other relationship.
The commissioner said Mr Mogridge used his position for his own gratification and exploited the women.
North Shore police yesterday said a complaint of indecent assault laid against Mr Mogridge was withdrawn about a month ago because the complainant did not want to give evidence.
