A licensed alcohol and drug counselor in Sussex County, Jon E. Boschen, has been suspended from practice for five years and fined $20,000 after allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment in the workplace. The announcement was made by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Consumer Affairs.
Boschen, who also holds a license as a clinical social worker, is accused of harassing and intimidating two women he supervised at an alcohol and drug rehabilitation center. He allegedly engaged in a personal and sexual relationship with one of them. In addition, Boschen was dismissed from another facility following a client’s report that he repeatedly made inappropriate, sexualized comments during counseling sessions.
To resolve these allegations, Boschen agreed to a five-year suspension of his licenses to practice alcohol and drug counseling and clinical social work in New Jersey. He is also required to pay $20,000 in civil penalties—$10,000 each to the State Board of Social Work Examiners and the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee.
“Sexual misconduct, harassment, and abuse by licensed professionals in the workplace is an insidious threat than can cause severe harm to victims,” said Attorney General Platkin. “We will continue to investigate complaints of this nature and hold violators accountable to ensure New Jersey’s professional settings remain safe and respectful environments for all.”
“New Jersey’s healthcare licensees are expected to comply with the highest professional and ethical standards,” said Elizabeth M. Harris, Acting Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “This licensee fell far short of those standards and is facing significant consequences for his conduct.”
Under the terms set by a final consent order filed with both regulatory boards, Boschen is barred for five years from practicing or supervising any form of mental health counseling or life coaching in New Jersey—whether paid or unpaid—and may not profit from such services rendered by others during this period. He also cannot serve as an expert consultant or testify within the state related to these professions.
The investigation was conducted by investigators from the Enforcement Bureau within the Division of Consumer Affairs. Deputy Attorney General Michelle Mikelberg represented the State under Section Chief Doreen A. Hafner’s supervision.
Patients who believe they have experienced inappropriate treatment by a licensed health care professional are encouraged to file complaints with the State Division of Consumer Affairs through its website or by calling 973-504-6200.
