Podcast Summary: The Oath – Episode: The Doctor
Introduction
The Oath, a six-part investigative series by TVO, delves into the intricate dynamics between psychiatrists and their patients, emphasizing the profound trust placed in medical professionals. In Episode 2, titled "The Doctor," hosts Krisha Collier and Brennan Lefler explore the multifaceted persona of Dr. Melvyn Iscove, a Toronto psychiatrist whose medical license was revoked in 2018 following allegations of sexual abuse by two patients. This episode unpacks Dr. Iscove’s professional journey, his therapeutic methods influenced by the obscure 1950s psychoanalyst Dr. Edmund Burglar, and the broader implications for Ontario’s medical regulatory framework.
Background of Dr. Melvyn Iscove
Dr. Melvyn Iscove graduated from the prestigious University of Toronto in 1969 and completed a three-year psychiatric residency at Albany Medical Center Hospital. By 1974, he had specialized in psychiatry through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Iscove’s enduring commitment to the theories of Dr. Edmund Burglar, a lesser-known psychoanalyst, significantly shaped his therapeutic approach.
Key Quote:
"He graduated from one of the top medical schools in the country, the University of Toronto, in 1969. He did a three-year psychiatric residency at Albany Medical Center Hospital." – Krisha Collier [03:00]
Dr. Iscove’s Therapeutic Methods and Influence of Dr. Edmund Burglar
Dr. Iscove introduced his patients to Dr. Edmund Burglar’s theories early in their therapy. Carol Dattasti, one of his former patients, recounts:
“I was introduced to Edmund Burglar and he said, I want you to take this book. I want you to read it.” – Carol Dattasti [15:27]
Dr. Iscove emphasized concepts like "psychic masochism," encouraging patients to take responsibility for their troubles, often leading to emotionally taxing sessions. This approach was heavily influenced by Burglar’s ideas, which Iscove believed were pivotal in addressing neuroses.
Key Quote:
"It was always not forgive yourself. It was always, that's masochistic, or you know, you did that, you got yourself into that trouble." – Brennan Lefler [16:52]
Interviews with Patients and Associates
Carol Dattasti’s Experience: Carol began therapy with Dr. Iscove in 1972 while grappling with personal losses and relationship issues. She describes initial sessions as unnerving despite Iscove’s professional demeanor.
“I took notes. I wrote things down. I wrote poetry. Did he put you at ease or I have to laugh? You make me laugh because. What? ... I would leave the session miserable.” – Brennan Lefler [01:56]
Carol never accused Dr. Iscove of sexual abuse but highlighted discomfort arising from boundary crossings and manipulative tactics.
Key Quote:
“I couldn’t have seen that coming.” – Carol Dattasti [01:11]
Henry’s Testimony: An anonymous patient, Henry, shared his six-year therapy experience, describing Iscove as an authoritative figure who fostered emotional dependency.
“This God, this guy that I looked up to and thought was perfect. More and more I was backing myself into a corner.” – Henry [18:45]
Charles Dennis’s Perspective: Charles Dennis, Dr. Iscove’s cousin and a filmmaker, provides insight into Iscove’s personal life and character. He describes Iscove as devoted to his family yet secretive and somewhat peculiar.
“He was always immensely proud of his daughters and their families. And I say he was always on Skype at some ungodly hour.” – Charles Dennis [08:15]
Connection to Dr. Edmund Burglar and Professional Networks
Dr. Iscove’s unwavering dedication to Dr. Edmund Burglar is a recurring theme. Iscove not only applied Burglar’s methods in his practice but also actively worked to sustain Burglar’s legacy through charitable organizations like the Burglar Foundation.
Key Quote:
“He was convinced, along with Winschroth, that Burglar was the answer to mankind’s neurosis.” – Brennan Lefler [23:17]
Despite extensive efforts, Burglar remains an obscure figure, with few experts recognizing his contributions, prompting further investigation by the podcast team.
Allegations and Professional Downfall
In 2018, Dr. Iscove faced severe allegations from two patients, leading to the revocation of his medical license by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. The disciplinary committee acknowledged that Iscove had acted inappropriately, although he presented evidence of his good character through letters of support from patients and associates.
“He testified that he picked him up and drove him to the hospital.” – Brennan Lefler [03:00]
Despite defenses, including Iscove’s claim of professionalism and care, the testimonies of Carol and Henry revealed a pattern of manipulative and potentially abusive behavior.
Key Quote:
“Sometimes we wondered whatever happened to him.” – Brennan Lefler [04:24]
The Hearing and Community Response
During the penalty hearing, Dr. Iscove vehemently denied allegations of sexual abuse and improper conduct. He justified his therapeutic methods by referencing Freud’s recommendations on maintaining patient confidentiality to avoid external interference.
“This is the kind of interference that Freud was aware of. After many years of work and I've seen it myself.” – Dr. Iscove [12:06]
Community responses were mixed. While some defended Iscove’s professionalism, others, like Carol Dattasti, vehemently rejected these defenses, asserting they were baseless.
Key Quote:
“Total rejection. Total disbelief. Never happened. He would never do anything like that.” – Carol Dattasti [09:38]
Legacy and Ongoing Investigation
The episode concludes by highlighting the enigmatic legacy of Dr. Edmund Burglar, whose influence on Dr. Iscove remains profound yet largely undocumented. The podcast team signals continued exploration into Burglar’s impact and the network of followers sustaining his theories.
“There are no books written about his life. But maybe there was more to Burglar than we were aware of.” – Krisha Collier [23:37]
Conclusion
Episode 2 of The Oath intricately examines Dr. Melvyn Iscove’s professional life, therapeutic practices, and the serious allegations that culminated in his license revocation. Through patient testimonies and interviews with associates, the podcast sheds light on the complex interplay of trust, authority, and potential abuse within psychiatric practice. Additionally, it underscores the challenges faced by medical regulators in safeguarding patients against such breaches of trust. As the series progresses, listeners can anticipate deeper investigations into the obscure figures influencing modern psychiatry and the systemic issues within medical oversight bodies.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- “I couldn’t have seen that coming.” – Carol Dattasti [01:11]
- “This is the kind of interference that Freud was aware of.” – Dr. Iscove [12:06]
- “He played with Sir Ernest Macmillan, for God's sake. ... Soloist Mel Iscove Melvin Isco.” – Charles Dennis [06:47]
- “Total rejection. Total disbelief. Never happened.” – Carol Dattasti [09:38]
- “I am superior and you really don't know much, and you have to learn from me.” – Brennan Lefler [16:52]
Join the Investigation
The Oath continues to unravel the complexities surrounding Dr. Melvyn Iscove and the shadowy influence of Dr. Edmund Burglar. Stay tuned for the next episode, where the podcast team ventures deeper into the enigmatic legacy of Burglar and the enduring impact on his followers.
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