Podcast Summary: The Oath – Episode: The Interview

Release Date: May 14, 2025

Introduction

In the culminating episode of the six-part investigative series "The Oath," hosted by TVO, journalist Krysha Collier delves deeper into the controversial case of Dr. Melvyn Iscov. Accused of sexually abusing two patients, Iscov's medical license was revoked in 2018. This episode offers a rare and in-depth interview with Iscov, providing him an opportunity to present his side of the story and respond to the allegations that have rocked the psychiatric community.

Uncovering Dr. Iscov's Background

Krysha Collier begins by recounting the initial efforts to locate Dr. Iscov, whose medical license had been revoked yet still appeared in medical directories. After persistent attempts including multiple visits and persistent inquiries, Collier and her co-producer, Brennan Lefler, finally secure an interview with Iscov in early 2025.

Dr. Melvyn Iscov shares his background, emphasizing his family's medical legacy:

"[05:26] I come from a family of doctors. My father was a family doctor. My mother had three brothers, all of whom became doctors."

He acknowledges the expectations placed upon him to continue the family tradition.

Dr. Iscov's Therapeutic Approach and Dr. Edmund Burglar's Influence

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Dr. Edmund Burglar, a 1950s psychoanalyst whose theories deeply influenced Iscov's practice. Iscov lauds Burglar's work, comparing him favorably to Freud:

"[07:04] Burglar's work is important because in my personal opinion and experience, Burglar was second only to Freud in terms of understanding, perception, grasp of the material..." ([07:04])

Collier probes into Burglar's contentious theories on homosexuality, commonly misconstrued as conversion therapy. Iscov defends his methods, clarifying that his goal was not to "cure" homosexuality but to explore underlying psychological factors:

"[32:47] Conversion therapy is not a term that I've ever used or thought in terms of. I suspect that the term conversion therapy came about because of the underlying idea that a person is either heterosexual or homosexual." ([32:47])

He emphasizes a therapeutic focus on reducing suffering rather than changing one's sexual orientation:

"[29:20] ...cure means reduction or, and ideally elimination of the suffering, the suffering which is related to the problem." ([29:20])

Accusations and Dr. Iscov's Defense

The heart of the episode addresses the allegations against Iscov. Two patients, referred to as Patient X and Patient Y, accused him of sexual abuse after years of therapy. The committee reviewing his case found striking similarities in their accounts, leading to questions about potential collusion.

Dr. Iscov counters these claims by suggesting that the similarities could stem from shared traits and past interactions within his practice:

"[22:57] I can't prove it, but given that they both had this tendency to leave the door open, it would not be that unusual that they had bumped into each other..." ([22:57])

However, Collier notes that the committee found no evidence of collusion, as both complainants denied knowing each other outside of therapy sessions.

The Disciplinary Process and Legal Representation

Iscov criticizes the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) for what he perceives as a biased and unaccommodating disciplinary process. He expresses dissatisfaction with his legal representation, alleging inadequate preparation and support:

"[20:27] I felt that he was not up to the task." ([20:27])

In contrast, Iscov's former lawyer defends the quality of representation, stating:

"In the eight years since I represented Dr. Izkov, to the best of my knowledge, he never raised an issue about the quality of our representation."

The CPSO maintains the confidentiality of its proceedings but confirms that a finding of professional misconduct led to the revocation of Iscov's license.

Historical Complaints and Patterns

Collier uncovers a prior complaint from 1992 involving similar allegations of sexual impropriety, which was dismissed. Iscov acknowledges this but suggests that the underlying issues in his practice, particularly relating to Burglar’s methods, have consistently been misunderstood:

"[26:29] Yes, there was a complaint, there was a hearing, and I remember the outcome was that the charges, the complaint was dismissed." ([26:29])

He implies that his therapeutic approach may inadvertently lead to conflicts with certain patients, especially those struggling with their sexual orientation.

Conversion Therapy vs. Psychoanalytic Practice

A pivotal part of the conversation distinguishes Dr. Iscov's methods from conversion therapy. Iscov asserts that his goal was not to change a patient's sexuality but to address the psychological distress associated with it:

"[32:35] That's not what I'm doing at all." ([32:35])

He critiques the binary view of sexuality fostered by critics of psychoanalysis and contends that his approach was aimed at reducing patient suffering rather than altering their sexual orientation.

Regulatory Transparency and Public Trust

The episode concludes with reflections on the broader implications of Iscov's case for Ontario's medical regulatory system. Collier raises concerns about the lack of transparency and the challenges in holding practitioners accountable without compromising patient confidentiality:

"But how far should confidentiality go? Even some experts we talk to think there is room in the law for the college to be more transparent."

She underscores the uncertainty surrounding the effectiveness of current regulations and the necessity for public trust in the medical profession's self-governance.

Conclusion

"The Interview" serves as a critical examination of Dr. Melvyn Iscov's professional conduct, therapeutic methodologies, and the efficacy of Ontario's medical regulatory framework. By providing a platform for Iscov's perspective, the episode invites listeners to consider the complexities surrounding psychiatric practices, ethical boundaries, and the mechanisms in place to protect patient welfare.

Notable Quotes:

• "Burglar was second only to Freud in terms of understanding, perception, grasp of the material..." – Dr. Melvyn Iscov ([07:04])

• "Conversion therapy is not a term that I've ever used or thought in terms of." – Dr. Melvyn Iscov ([32:47])

• "I felt that he was not up to the task." – Dr. Melvyn Iscov ([20:27])

• "But how far should confidentiality go?" – Krysha Collier ([33:53])

Credits:

• Host/Author: Krysha Collier
• Co-Producers: Brennan Lefler
• Sound Design and Editing: Damian Kearns
• Editing and Technical Support: Matthew O' Meara
• Theme Music: Alison Layton Graham
• Special Thanks: Berry and Lori Greene Family Charitable Trust
• Managing Editor of Podcasts and Digital Video: Katie O'Connor
• Executive Producer of Digital: Laurie Few
• Vice President, Programming and Content: John Ferry

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Listen to "The Oath" on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast platform to explore the full investigative series on the responsibilities and ethical boundaries of medical professionals.