You are coaching a couple. You privately told the wife, “His behavior sounds like narcissism.” They divorce. The husband sues you for “Alienation of Affection” and negligence, claiming your biased advice destroyed his marriage and caused him to lose custody.
Key Takeaways
- The “No Secrets” Policy: Standard of care for couples work suggests a “No Secrets” policy. If you keep secrets (individual texts), you create liability for bias.
- Alienation of Affection: In some states (NC, MS, etc.), this is a real tort where a third party (you) can be sued for breaking up a marriage.
- Diagnosis Risk: Using the word “Narcissist” is a diagnosis. If you aren’t a psychologist, you practiced medicine without a license.
- Dual Relationship: You cannot coach the couple and the individual simultaneously without massive ethical/legal risk.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Bias/Negligence Claim
The trap here is “Improper Professional Conduct.”
If you label a partner (Narcissist, Abuser) without clinical qualifications, you are negligent. A standard Life Coach policy defends against negligence, but if you admit to diagnosing, they might trigger the “Unauthorized Practice” exclusion.
The Investigation: Relationship Liability
I compared coverage for Relationship Coaches vs. Therapists.
1. CPH & Associates (MFT Insurance)
- My Analysis: Marriage & Family Therapists (MFTs) have policies specifically designed for this “triangulation” risk.
- Coach Option: CPH offers a coach version. It covers “Relationship Coaching,” but warns against clinical terms.
2. Lockton Affinity
- My Analysis: Good for broad coaching.
- Defense: They would likely defend the “Bias” claim as a standard negligence suit.
3. General Liability
- My Analysis: Useless. This isn’t a slip-and-fall.
Comparison Table: Couples Risk
| Action | Risk Level | Insurance Cover? |
| Teaching Communication Skills | Low | Yes |
| Siding/Validating one side | Medium | Yes (Defense) |
| Diagnosing “Narcissism” | High | No (Scope violation) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check State Law: Are you in an “Alienation of Affection” state? If so, tread lightly.
- Define the Client: Your contract must state: “The Client is the Relationship, not the individuals.”
- Stop Individual Texts: Banish side-bar conversations. All comms must include both partners.
- Avoid Clinical Labels: Never say “Narcissist.” Say “High-conflict behavior” or “Defensive patterns.”
FAQ Section
Can the husband sue me if he didn’t sign the contract?
Yes. If he participated in sessions, he is a client. Even if he didn’t, he can sue for “Loss of Consortium” (loss of wife’s affection).
What if I suspect abuse?
You are likely not a Mandated Reporter (unless in specific states like CA for coaches). However, ethical guidelines suggest referring to a Domestic Violence specialist immediately.
Does my policy cover me if I testify in their custody hearing?
See the “Subpoena” article. Only if you have the Deposition rider.