News Summary
A Grand Rapids therapist, Mario Gibson Franciscotty, faces charges of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct after a patient reported inappropriate sexual behavior during therapy sessions. The allegations suggest a relationship that included sexual intercourse over several months. Although initially viewed as consensual, the patient later recognized the unethical nature of the interactions and reported the therapist. Evidence includes explicit text messages between the two, raising concerns about the safety and ethics in mental health practices within the community.
Grand Rapids, MI – A therapist in Grand Rapids has been charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct after a woman reported incidents of inappropriate sexual behavior during therapy sessions. The Kent County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation on July 18 following allegations against 51-year-old Mario Gibson Franciscotty, the executive director of Wellspring Counseling.
Franciscotty, who specializes in individual, family, and marriage counseling, is accused of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a patient over a period of seven months. The allegations state that he had sexual intercourse with the woman four to five times during therapy sessions, primarily in April and May of this year.
The patient initially described the encounters as consensual; however, she later recognized that the relationship was unethical and reported the incidents to authorities. Under Michigan law, it is illegal for mental health professionals to engage in sexual relations with their clients, regardless of consent.
As part of her evidence, the woman retained a screenshot of sexually explicit text messages exchanged with Franciscotty. These messages reportedly included flirtatious content and nude photographs. Allegedly, Franciscotty even suggested they use an encrypted messaging app, Telegram, to communicate more privately.
The investigation revealed that Franciscotty had admitted to having an inappropriate relationship with the patient but denied any physical sexual contact. It was also reported that he warned the woman about the severe consequences she would face if their relationship was discovered, including potential jail time for both parties.
As a result of the ongoing criminal case, Franciscotty’s status as a practicing therapist is currently unclear. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 5 before Judge Daniel O’Hara. The outcome of the case could potentially affect his ability to practice in the future.
The Wellspring Counseling center, led by Franciscotty, provides mental health services to the Grand Rapids community. The allegations against its executive director have raised significant concern among community members regarding the safety and ethical standards upheld within mental health practices.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case, and any additional victims or individuals with related information are encouraged to come forward. The legal process will determine the extent of the allegations and Franciscotty’s culpability, as more details come to light in the upcoming court proceedings.
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- MLive: Marriage Counselor Accused of Sexually Assaulting Patient
- Google Search: marriage counselor sexual assault news
- CBS News: Michigan Orthodontist Accused of Sexually Exploiting Teens
- Encyclopedia Britannica: sexual exploitation
- Fresno Bee: National News Article
- Google News: national news
- Wood TV: Kent County Jail Counselor Accused of Sexual Assault
- Google Scholar: sexual assault in prisons
- Crain’s Grand Rapids: Lakeshore Mental Health Services Expansion
- Google Search: mental health services
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
