Former UI social worker convicted of sexually abusing patients

Therapist faces up to 15 years in prison for exploiting vulnerable patients

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A former University of Iowa Health Care social worker and therapist, James Daniel Burkhalter, has pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual exploitation by a counselor or therapist. Burkhalter admitted to engaging in sexual contact with at least three patients between 2019 and 2023, including having sex with one patient on numerous occasions both during and outside of therapy sessions. He faces up to 15 years in prison for his crimes.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious breach of trust and power dynamics involved when a therapist sexually exploits their vulnerable patients. It raises concerns about oversight and screening processes for mental health professionals, as well as the need for stronger laws and enforcement to protect patients from such abuse of authority.

The details

According to the plea agreement, Burkhalter admitted to engaging in sexual contact with one patient from March to April 2019, a second patient from July 2022 through January 2023, and a third patient from October to December 2019. The investigation began in 2022 after complaints about Burkhalter's inappropriate behavior, leading to his termination from UIHC. He then opened a private practice where he continued to see former UIHC patients and new patients until his license was suspended in February 2023.

  • Burkhalter engaged in sexual contact with one patient from March 1 to April 29, 2019.
  • Burkhalter engaged in sexual contact with a second patient from July 2022 through January 2023.
  • Burkhalter engaged in sexual contact with a third patient from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2019.
  • Burkhalter was terminated from UIHC in 2022 after complaints about his inappropriate behavior.
  • Burkhalter's license was indefinitely suspended by the Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals on Feb. 13, 2023.

The players

James Daniel Burkhalter

A 46-year-old former University of Iowa Health Care social worker and therapist who pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual exploitation by a counselor or therapist.

University of Iowa Health Care (UIHC)

The health care system where Burkhalter worked as a social worker and therapist before being terminated in 2022 due to complaints about his inappropriate behavior.

Iowa Board of Behavioral Health Professionals

The state regulatory board that indefinitely suspended Burkhalter's license on February 13, 2023.

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What’s next

Burkhalter's sentencing is scheduled for April 16, where the judge will determine if he will receive a prison term or probation.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical need for robust oversight, screening, and accountability measures to protect vulnerable patients from sexual exploitation by mental health professionals who abuse their position of trust. It highlights the lasting trauma and harm that can result from such egregious breaches of ethics.