A psychologist who touched a patient while delivering ‘energy medicine’ therapy and then tried to instigate a personal relationship has been reprimanded and disqualified for two years.

The patient was referred to the female psychologist in October 2016 under a GP mental health plan, for help with his excessive alcohol consumption, depression, anxiety and stress, according to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

But in August 2017, the psychologist began sending the patient personal and affectionate emails, calling him “beautiful man” and using heart emojis.

After learning of his chronic neck, shoulder and jaw pain, the psychologist recommended ‘energy medicine’, which she knew was unfounded, to “release” the childhood trauma she said was causing the pain.