A young relative who was seeing a therapist was being treated/groomed for a sexual relationship. That brave intelligent girl told her parents who went to the police. They wired her up and the therapist was caught "in the act". That girl is now in her 30's, a successful wife and mother. Her life could have been ruined, instead his was!
ValeriedeMello, loved reading the example you gave! Had something of that happened when Susan was young, then the career of evil Felix Polk would've ended looooong time back. It's obvious Susan was not given the proper guidance by adults in her family. I suspect Susan kept things secret before her Marriage.
Felix Polk is responsible for his own Murder at the hands of wife, Susan. Theirs was an Unnatural and miserably Incompatible relationship dictated by an obsessively “Controlling” Felix. This took its toll on the mental stability of Susan. Years of suffocation, tension and bad blood (plus complications of Divorce) culminated in Susan killing Felix in a fit rage or in self-defence. My sympathies are more with Susan than the Dead! The Jury should have given her a lesser Jail term taking into consideration the Toxic relationship created by the obsessively “Controlling” Felix. It certainly was NOT a cold-blooded murder at all (the kind that career criminals would do). Felix was a popular Psychologist who himself was in need of serious Counselling but that never happened. No sympathy for him at all! In many cases of crime, it's the "Victim" who is also responsible to a great extent for his/her own fate! But this never comes out in public. For every Action there will be an opposite Reaction.
@@wheatstonebridge - Someone who was as deserving of their fate as I've ever come across. He started grooming her when she was FOURTEEN and he in his late thirties or early forties. Not only much older than her, but also a THERAPIST to whom she was confiding her deepest fears and frailties. He certainly committed statutory rape on her. He should have been jailed then - and his authority to work as a therapist rescinded. He might still be alive today (and still a swine - although prison time might have humbled his arrogance somewhat - I doubt it though). I personally don't waste any sympathy on people for whom Dame Karma rides in on her broomstick in time for the rest of us to see and shudder. And be thankful that we at least try hard to do the right and not the wrong things. Susan was no saint, herself, but, My God, being the prey of such a bastard for such a long time, from when you were FOURTEEN??? No. He had it coming. Good riddance to bad rubbish. Poor offspring of such an ill-fated coupling. No to mention the 2 older children of the first "disposable" (to that dickwad) marriage.
He definitely had it coming 1. Slept with her while she was under age, breaking the law and code of ethics for mental health practitioners (counsellors are not allowed to date even their adult patients) 2. Was actually committing adultery 3. Had her committed to control her while she was a minor 4. Provided for her financially to gain even more control 5. Proceeded to emotionally torture her for years Question: why didn't her parents get press charges against him though?
I am not sure how you can be so sure about so many things even when they are not known to the public. Has there been a trial about their relationship when she was a minor? Did the former wife ever comment on their relationship? Do you have sources that speculate on his intent for committing her? Did he have a diary that gave a list of his motivations why he paid for her expenses? In what way did he torture her, what's your source? You certainly dont need trials to make your judgement of guilt. I find it almost funny that nex to statutory rape you list cheating on his wife 3 decades earlier as a reason why he "had it coming" to get murdered. You do project a lot.
@@stt5v2002 No, Dr. Grande said that he borrowed an enormous amount of money from her mom! $60,000 3:33 -5:30 He was a real piece of work, capable of manipulating all sorts of circumstances and people to fulfill his sense of entitlement.
The first wife got out just in time. NUMEROUS people and the law failed Susan. Felix should still be alive because he should have been in prison for thirty years for ever touching Susan. The world is a better place with Felix not in it. A very sad ,real life story, very well detailed and explained by you ,Dr.Grande. Excellent video.
He isolated her and preyed upon her. Rendering her helpless at a young age to mold her to what he wanted. The perfect wife. He played with her mind and emotions for decades. He was a twisted evil man.
Thanks! I think that any relationship that begins with crossing of boundaries has very little chances to succeed. In addition, Susan was at such a vulnerable position when she met him and he took full advantage of that. Although he lost his life, it’s truly despicable what he did to Susan. Fantastic review of a very sad case, thank you Dr. Grande.❤️
THAT'S VERY VERY TRUE!!!! That goes hand in hand with the old saying when someone shows you their true colors, believe them the first time. If someone is willing to start out a relationship by immediately crossing boundaries and not respecting the other person's boundaries, that only means that they're going to continue to push further and further past your boundaries until you've completely given in and giving up on keeping any boundaries set!
@@EarlSmith2469 That’s very kind of you.☺️ Also, I wanted to say that I LOVE your banner! That’s one of my favorite paintings!🥰💯 I had that painting as a wallpaper in my computer for years.💕
@@annalisegiovanni7032 That’s a great saying, “believe them the first time.” I couldn’t agree more. Unfortunately people take too many chances in their romantic life.😕
@@rejaneoliveira5019 ~That's a fact! It's a very unfortunate fact that that. Oftentimes people have absolutely zero problem showing their true colors shining bright as could be and it ends up in a situation where someone ends up losing their life....
He molested a 15 year old and groomed her into knowing nothing else but fear of his authority. I can understand that once she unleashed her anger ; there was no going back. In truth, she is the victim. Too bad for the kids, especially Gabriel who found his father's body.
Once he had his grip on her it was like he had taken her from her parents. He used his authority to keep her tied to him as her therapist while isolating her from her loved ones. Eventually, she adapted and thought it must be a consensual relationship. She probably never had much of a chance to date boys her age. He victimized her in the worst way. He kept trying to control her. I think she couldn't take it anymore.
This family lived nearby where I live and their sons went to a school district I worked at. The boys were terrors. It was obvious to anyone who cared to look that this family was extremely dysfunctional. When I think of this story, it always brings tears to my eyes because of how Susan was used (abused?) by Felix early on when she was terribly vulnerable. I agree with Dr. Grande that her past with Felix should have been considered when sentencing her. I believe one of the big problems with her trial was that she insisted on representing herself. She was extremely intelligent, but this was a wrong move on her part. I have often wondered if Felix, who was suicidal on many occasions throughout his life, actually manipulated Susan in to a rage so that she would do the job for him. This case is such a tragedy.
@@TheDeepWW I did not work there at the time the boys went to school, but the stories were heard. Their behavioral problems have been well publicized in the various books written about this sad story.
Not to mwntion, there is no school employee-student confidentiality. Medical information is protected, and there are various protected types of communication (spouse, lawyer, religious, etc.), but if I'm a teacher, I'm fully allowed to go on TV and say whatever factual information I want about my students. I'd only be bound by slander rules as long as I'm not giving out protected health information. In reality, I'm not a teacher, so I'm not going on TV for anything related to that 🤪
I just can't feel sorry for someone who forced sex and marriage out of someone with his power to imprison her. He was given that power with the expectation of using it to help people. Disgusting.
I agree. Any person who takes the Hippocratic Oath - an oath taken by physicians to uphold specific medical standards - and then turns around and misuses their authority deserves everything that they have coming to them.
Doc, do you ever sleep? You post these for us daily and I can’t imagine how much research and preparation this takes! I always look forward to these and appreciate your work.
@@al1040 I didn’t realize he has a chronic disability. I’ve only been following Dr G for around 6 months, maybe a bit longer. I’m not saying he doesn’t look good though, I’m just amazed at how often he works to put out daily videos.
the legal system gives violent murderers who rape, torture & murder their victims less time than susan received. she never had an equal relationship as it was more that he dominated her
I recall this story. In 1996 I divorced and my atty suggested that I see a psychiatrist to determine if my then manipulative ER physician (former psychiatrist) husband somehow hurt me emotionally. First appt with psychiatrist was weird. He was late. I sat on rock wall outside his office waiting. Then there he was approaching me and every hair on the back of my neck stood up. 2nd appt. he starts by telling me that by law he HAD to share something iwth me. In short, he was charged for raping a female patient and was in the courts. He said he was innocent and the proof was that he had spent 6 months living as a woman....he was transitioning at that time. I got my butt up off that chair and literally ran out. I was married to a wacko and my doc was a wacko.....
He created a monster. I don't feel too sorry for him. But what I don't understand is why Susan's mother didn't report Felix to the licensing board and remove Susan from his therapy. My understanding is Susan was still a minor when her mother found out.
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 it's apparently documented that he was at times suicidal, depressed, unable to have healthy relationships and bonds and just in general mentally unstable. So it's not as surprising perhaps that he wasnt able to adhere to an ethical or professional code.
What a fascinating case! I started out feeling sad for Felix, however, that quickly changed as I listened to more of this case. It was very moving in your final thoughts when you said "Felix was the ultimate narcissistic manipulator. One who targeted a young victim, while he was in the position of tremendous power and trust." The abuse of power in any profession or hierarchy is the worst kind of abuse! Incredible video, Dr. Grande!! ♡♡
This is a case where she should be given her freedom back. She’s not a danger to anyone else. She killed her abuser who started in on her when she was 15 years old.
Yeah he groomed and used her when she was a child in a vulnerable state, it's totally possible to me that she maybe saw no other way out from his power, most her life he had been cobtrolling her.
He was an abuser. She could have left though before he knocked her up not once not twice but 3x! At some point she was okay with getting with the established therapist until the $$$ and perks went away. And as soon as he started playing the divorce game BETTER than her she murdered him. Lol that’s a sore loser for ya.
He took her whole life long before she took it back by taking his. I have no doubt he was threatening, abusive and controlling. What she did might have been overkill, but I don’t believe it ever would have happened if he hadn’t done what he did to her; took her whole life. She and the children didn’t ask for this, and she was basically given to a child predator she probably felt she could never escape. Innocent? No. He stole that from her the minute he touched her. Justified? Absolutely.
Well, I blamed her mother who knew from Susan herself that the therapist was sexually taking advantage of her and therefore was abusing his position of trust but did NOTHING! She just called him to express her dissatisfaction and tell him to stop sleeping with her daughter. That's it? You don't report him ? You don't prevent your daughter from going back to that counselor? Her complacency is staggering and her attitude as a parent rather irresponsible.
"He forged Susan in a furnace of narcissism, inadvertently shaping her into a weapon which was eventually turned against him." - I love this summary. Puts it perfectly.
Wait...he had desire for his sister? This guy was a monster. Murder is never the answer I guess, but I get why Susan felt compelled to end the hold he had over her. Great analysis as always, Dr Grande!
@@LDiamondz Yep. My own ancestors on one side were Sephardim, but that doesn't change the facts. Such fixations within that group are not an outlier. I am convinced there is a genetic predisposition towards a certain clustering in trauma response.
@@vl4394 Really? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that. As soon as Dr.Grande said he had desires for his sister, I knew this case was going to get really ugly. I was wondering why you said he was Jewish and nothing more. Thanks for the information. 👍
I don’t feel sorry for him at all. She killed the man who sexually abused and groomed her. Good for her. I feel sorry for the children though to be born in such turmoil.
@@maxmeier532 Yes, let's not condone what she did, but even if her sons testified against her, that doesn't mean that they did not suffer to be raised on such unhealthy relationship, especially from their father's side.
@@maxmeier532 The whole “innocent till proven guilty”or “execution without trial” doesn’t really apply when a victim murders their abuser. They know they’re guilty and therefore there’s no risk of killing an innocent person. That being said, we should always take the claims of killers with a grain of salt.
Sadly difference between what is morally right and legally right, yes it's hard to hear, but both need proof, and if you cannot prove things, as much as I'd agree with the original statement, wholeheartedly, anarchy is also not a social positive, since we cannot see the truth in people's brains.
I don't condone murder, that being stated, Susan saw no way out of an extremely abusive relationship. No one would or could help her. She was a prisoner and she murdered her jailer. That should have been taken into consideration. The most dangerous time in an abusive relationship is when the victim tries to escape.
You know when I open a new video from Dr Grande , the first thing I do is check out the cacti placements, the lamp and mug, etc. It’s important that everyone is present and accounted for - lol!
@@eddenoy321 ~Thank You Much! SIDE NOTE~not only was your original comment hilarious and very true, but another reason I found it so hilarious was because at the time I was literally waiting on Uber to deliver my food and the guy was already running HELLA LATE bc he said he "left his wallet at school" & I saw that and I thought to myself damn, that guy didn't put much thought nor effort into his excuse considering the fact that he's using school as an excuse and it's Sunday 😂🙆♀️
If books were still in vogue, you would be a best seller! People will be waiting for your next publication. Marvelous detective and story telling abilities as well as intelligent.
I have been a subscriber for a long while and I always feel comforted knowing you're in the world Dr. Grande. Thank you always, for all your hard work to bring us informative, educational videos about urges, pertinent issues. Plus we get to see you also, which is a blessing. God bless your loved ones dear Dr. Grande. 💚🌵
Fortunately, any therapist today who is found to be having an affair with not only a patient but an underage one at that, would be arrested and their license suspended and the personal relationship immediately quashed. Our society has come a long way in properly dealing with abuse-of-power relationships. It’s painful to think of what some people had to endure in the not-too-distant past. Another interesting story and analysis by Dr. Grande.
My cousin committed suicide in the 1992 at the age of 32. Her family was not able to prove it but it was highly suspected that she had an affair with her psychiatrist. If that were true, it really makes you wonder about that doctor. She was quite ill and he took advantage. You wonder what would be the motive/satisfaction?
Actually if you go to a lot of survivor circles, Susan's story is still pretty common. The issue is a lot of boards' don't listen to survivors and rarely act unless they have another therapist willing to advocate for them or if the media picks up on them.
Your closing sentence seemed to me insightful and culminated to a fine, even a dramatic point. Of course, it would hit close to home for any truly qualified person in your field. Bravissimo!
Wow, I remember reading the book about this. What always stuck out about this murder was that she was afraid of him all the time. She was afraid of him so much so that she even stabbed the bottom of his feet during the murder so he couldn't run after her if he tried to escape while being killed.
I don't remember that. That point alone was evidence that should have screamed. Funny how what she came in to therapy with doesn't get mentioned. Polk was a specialist.
The analogy you used “forged in the furnace? Foundry? 🔥? Of narcissism and inadvertently formed a weapon.” Damned good writing. You’ve won the award for me for the day of best writer, and I’m going to encounter Shakespeare and Shirley Jackson later. Thanks for the content.
He's not the first authority figure to take advantage of someone younger and more vulnerable, nor will he be the last. It's still going on, and those who know stand by and do nothing to stop it.
Susan was a minor when Felix abused her, he broke the law in both his abuse and in using the powers he had to threaten to have incarcerated. This is a classic abuse case not different to similar cases where children are kidnapped and kept locked up and abused by their captors. Though Susan had some amount of freedom it was always with a threat hanging over her.
I liked a lot your final thoughts on the case, when you relate to the circumstances of the crime, arguing for less punishment, as she saw no other escape from her narcissistic husband!
There was a social worker back in the 80’s who was killed by her client. He was psychotic and during their session she took a phone call. I think it was from her boyfriend but I am not sure. The client stabbed her to death. I was a young social worker. It really underlined the importance of boundaries to me! This happened in Los Angeles.
@@albertarose6821 As I recall it was a social worker. I had just finished my social work degree so it stood out to me. I think her first name was Robin.
He should’ve just give it to her everything she wanted, but he played her the same way he played his first wife. He is responsible for his own death, she was the monster he created. Sad case.
“Forged her in a furnace of narcissism” that’s an outstanding statement, and I am so encouraged that you did take into account all of the suffering and inappropriate relationship. Was 16 years too much? Let’s just say I hope she gets out early on parole
The fact two of her sons betrayed her to protect the father in death. If I remember right the judge actually wasn’t happy with those sons. I felt the judge really didn’t want to be harsh but he follow the legal system that is full of holes. The jury got it wrong. An abuser was killed and they got mad at the victim.
In complicated cases I'd be inclined for a JUDGE trial. A jury trial is a CHOICE for the defendant, and not always a good one. AND she "defended" herself? No. Not recommended.
I love your channel Dr. Grande for 3 main reasons....The content and commentary are awesome and last but not least I find your voice so soothing it puts me to sleep at night...I just click on any previously viewed video and play it with low volume next to my pillow...Within 5 minutes I'm out 😴 no other sleep aids required....Thanks Dr. Grande
My mother did secretarial work for various individuals at her home. A noted well published psychiatrist locked his two older teenagers out of his residence which was also his office. Later overheard he had a female patient in there with him & not for the first time with this particular woman. The mum lived out of state & the shrink had total custody. The son drove them to our house as both were distraught & had no place to go. They eventually left after a few hours & apparently got into their house. My mother quit working for him so don't know the ultimate outcome. WOW.
Much of my life and personality was shaped by MY husband (who luckily is a better person than Felix seemed to have been). I'm 38 and we've been together for almost 25 years...so I'm sure for anyone who can count, it's obvious that I grew up with him and he is a "little" older than me. Although he didn't have malicious intentions, I think back to my 15 yr old self and sometimes feel angry. And we are still together and love each other....so with her current circumstances, I can't imagine the rage this woman must have felt. Murder is wrong, but I have never agreed with your opinion more than I do in this case. I think there were some extenuating circumstances, to say the least.
Wow! You were 13 and he wasn’t a minor? Seems totally inappropriate like a grooming kind of relationship, I hope he has matured and the relationship is healthy now. I could see how there is resentment.
“Although he didn’t have bad intentions, I think back to my 15 year old self and sometimes feel angry” There’s a confession there somewhere. Hope you find peace
@@danparish1344Before my Dad was a Christian, he attempted to marry me off to this one specific man who was 21 and actually my father's boss that's a long story of why my father wasn't lost but he really admired this young man and thought he'd make a good husband for me which he thought I needed an older man he comes from a family of 13 being the youngest of 13 siblings the last five kids are the only ones that survived so I'm 71 meaning that two of those five were girls and they both married three times the first marriage they were 13 only they were I don't use the word forced but encouraged to get married and their third husbands were extremely successful cause you know they fortunately had common sense they just were kids when it all started ended up with oh my gosh success in every way they were stay at home wives but your husband had good success they had lots of kids grandchildren great-grandchildren and eventually everybody got into church I'm a family because we come from a long line of I'm just preachers from 1640 from Wales. MANY thru the "centuries!" this is the way country Pope thought if you come from Kentucky and Tennessee you didn't mess with your sister but you definitely got married young you know how to family I was actually picked on because I did not want to get married at age 20 by this time my father is associate pastor had was actually in the middle of attending seminary in Dallas-Fort Worth area... but my sister married at 16 and nobody understood why I wasn't married first and honestly I had many proposals and I'm not bragging because all I live was very unhappy most of my adult life several divorces I didn't grow up till much later in life always looking to appease my father from a distance I always wanted his approval but the only thing is I never did want to get married part of that was because I should say I did not want to get married young I'm talking about even 20 was too young for me but when you have the opportunity to date a lot of guys then you start wanting a different flavor and I was a virgin when I got married so it wasn't like I was as wild thing but I just couldn't settle for you know a good person and there were many that crossed my paths there was one person I wanted to marry when I was 16 that I had left up in Ohio when we moved to Texas for Dad to attend Seminary but my father wouldn't let me marry him at the time because he wasn't a Baptist I know ridiculous but somehow I ended up marrying the bad guys I'm not trying to air my dirty laundry I'm saying depends on your generation but there still are those I should say most of them have passed on a lot of them wanted their children to marry young and have lots of kids.... and I'm very sorry that she endured so much and again there's no rhyme no reason for murder except for self-defense and then that is not even considered murder in Scripture I know it's crazy but I just thought I would share to you another real life story that's similar in the because I got myself into those bad situations of a very manipulative narcissist who one of them the strongest of all my husband's meaning emotionally stronger really use my Christianity against me yet he married me because I was a Christian too further his own career as family had bookous of money here in Texas family business that's extremely well known but I could only handle 4 years of marriage and two of them we didn't even live together to the four years and even though we own five houses and three sailboats I ended up with none of that when we got divorced it gave me a mere $20,000 in $10,000 increments so a month apart I got a I never even got to keep my wedding ring so he literally came up to the office where I worked on a day he know the doctor wasn't there and I was the only one in the office and he fought me for my wedding ring until he got that ring off my finger and he was 6'4 and I'm five four yeah crazy stuff happens and who knows what have happened if I could have even withstood living with him like for years anyway it was my life story then LOL
@@sbFreakinxRican oh yeah! And we have 2 daughters ,21 and 14....so when he looks at our children...it hits him... And I have found peace..we both have..and I know that even without words. He's acknowledged the error.
This is a case where a female (most often the case) victim of abuse who retaliates is being unjustly convicted. She got 16 years to life, which doesn't reflect the fact that she had little choice but to murder her abuser in order to protect herself.
She had many chances before the last which was murder. She could not have gotten involved with a married man in the first place. People give to many excuses for minor girls that defy their parents advise. Looks like the girls have all the rights in the world only because they are minor. More responsibility needs to be given to minors as they approach the age of consent. It is illogical to think that a day before the 18th birthday one has no responsibility at all and in 24 hours is an adult fully responsible. In my opinion both got what they deserved.
@@ioanaanaoi8232 I would watch you around kids and teenagers! That being said, your last statement is correct. That's why older men and women should not date teenagers. Which is what 18 and 19year olds are! The human brain is not fully developed until the age of 25.
@@ioanaanaoi8232 I will think more of this idea in a general sense. It is logical. There have been cases where minors are tried as adults. For example, in cases of teens committing premeditative murder. However, I am not in agreement in this case (for reasons mentioned in my earlier comment).
@@Blissfulnessence if she was his only underage female client I would agree that he bears the full responsibility to manipulate her. It is obvious that he had many other underage female clients that were not inclined to have sexual relationship with him. She bears some responsibility for what she got into. Playing with fire you get burned. My point is she's not a victim that had murder as the only option. My previous comment was regarding giving her credit for the crime as it was her only option.
In the early 90's I had a referral to Felix in Berkeley. I met with him in his home where his office was. Susan would randomly walk in with coffee for him. She entered from another door that connected to their kitchen. A couple of times I'd see a couple of the boys sitting at a kitchen table. Although his coffee was freshened up during our sessions, (yes, this was disruptive) I was never offered any. I also recall the atmosphere as being cold. Their house was gorgeous though.
I haven’t been following your content, Dr. Grande, since the Depp/Turd trial began. However, I look forward to binge watching your episodes in 4 weeks 😌
I wish Dr. Grande would broadcast news on a major network. His tone, reading any story, is considerate and calming-and if drollery is appropriate-it manifests. He would make the world a calmer place!! I am sooo tired of news hype.
Hello Dr. Grande❣️ Thank you for the new video! Watching a new video from you is THE PERFECT WAY to wind down for the end of the evening & end of the weekend. I hope you had a great weekend! Much love❣️
Wow, i think i started following you when you were less than 100k followers. (I think ). I just noticed >1 M…congrats Dr Grande. Well done. And we love your comedy, disguised as helpful mental health content we can all appreciate and understand……😊
"Attempted to find an exit ramp where there was no possibility to get back on to the highway," that's the sense of humor that keeps me coming back Todd!! 😆
Dear Dr Grande, Thank you for covering a case about the unique dynamic in a relationship between a narcissistic authority figure (doctor, teacher, etc) and a student/mentee. I myself have lived the hell of such a relationship. I wasn't the only one, either, and I tried to rally the others to speak out against him, but nothing was done - as it turns out, the committee was doing similar things with yet other girls. This was a summer program taking place in Paris focused on composition, music theory, and chamber music. The people who run it are a trio of stooges whom have all - ALL - had separate accusatory incidents at one point or another. Yet, in the world of classical music in all its conservatism, nothing was done, and I was ostracized, for whatever reason. There are few places for female composers in a male world. We have historically been told that we do not have creative bones in our body - unless, as my colleague Evan put it, "a man puts one in her." This gives you an idea of the dynamic. And that was not at the aforementioned summer program - that was during my masters which took place at arguably one of the best conservatory in the country if not the world. The three stooges are also affiliated, especially the head of the three. What is the best way to navigate this? What kind of therapy might one turn to, and what actions can one take? Much respect, and thank you. Dr. A
this is such an unfortunate culmination of events. It is so unfortunate nothing happened as an intervention at literally any point from the time Susan was 15. and I agree, there should have been a strong consideration for Felix's subverted role in the decades of Trauma Susan endured. The propositional nature of the law when it's a he said she said thing especially when one of the people are not there, very difficult to get past. this is so unfortunate overall, especially for the kids.
hmm, i've known a couple people who this could have (or should have) happened to back when i saw such people. they don't get that professional boundaries are there to protect them too.
Thank you as always for your fascinating videos, Dr. Grande! Would you ever consider looking at the Issei Sagawa case? I've always found it interesting and would love to hear your analysis.
I actually knew Dr. Polk when I was a kid. He was my therapist when I was a teenager in the mid 90s. I remember him being really cool, easy to talk to as a typical angry male teen that I was then. Regardless of who he was in his private life, I was shocked and saddened to learn that his life ended this way. 😔
Hi Dr. Grande! What a great analysis, as always. I really appreciate your consistent method of giving background information, sketching the timeline of the crime, and giving a clear analysis, followed by a grounded but nuanced opinion based on facts, in response to speculative theories or truly empathy fueled doubt. One little thing, I noticed an inconsistency in the timeline: murder Oct. 2002 - conviction June 2002 :) Looked it up afterwards and conviction was June 2006. By the way: I also love your straight-face delivery of humor and your soothing calm voice. Perfect combo!
Hi Dr. Grande, I'm really curious to hear your thoughts on Steven Pladl, who had a baby with his own daughter and wound up killing them before committing suicide.
You are so cool. I enjoy all your videos. This one is tragic. Given the time, late 60's early 70's, maybe her mother could have done more to address this out of control therapist. Or maybe she tried and failed. I am not blaming the mother. Later she loaned him money. Crazy and sad story. Can you tell us about the mental and personality factors involved with Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassidy. Particularly the adventures described in Kerouac's Book, "On The Road". Also the beginning of the beatnik movement. Thank you for videos.
Dear Doctor Grande : Thank you for the very thought provoking series. I wish for you many more years of presentations. Given all of the circumstances, I believe a more appropriate decision should have been a declaration of ' Not Guilty By Reason of Temporary Insanity '. Be well, Doctor.
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A young relative who was seeing a therapist was being treated/groomed for a sexual relationship. That brave intelligent girl told her parents who went to the police. They wired her up and the therapist was caught "in the act". That girl is now in her 30's, a successful wife and mother. Her life could have been ruined, instead his was!
Good!!! Her mom should have reported him to the police immediately....than her life would have been spared!
That girl’s name? Michael Jordan
@@TheDweeb002 That therapist's name? Jada Pinkett Smith.
ValeriedeMello, loved reading the example you gave! Had something of that happened when Susan was young, then the career of evil Felix Polk would've ended looooong time back. It's obvious Susan was not given the proper guidance by adults in her family. I suspect Susan kept things secret before her Marriage.
Felix Polk is responsible for his own Murder at the hands of wife, Susan.
Theirs was an Unnatural and miserably Incompatible relationship dictated by an obsessively “Controlling” Felix. This took its toll on the mental stability of Susan. Years of suffocation, tension and bad blood (plus complications of Divorce) culminated in Susan killing Felix in a fit rage or in self-defence.
My sympathies are more with Susan than the Dead!
The Jury should have given her a lesser Jail term taking into consideration the Toxic relationship created by the obsessively “Controlling” Felix. It certainly was NOT a cold-blooded murder at all (the kind that career criminals would do).
Felix was a popular Psychologist who himself was in need of serious Counselling but that never happened. No sympathy for him at all!
In many cases of crime, it's the "Victim" who is also responsible to a great extent for his/her own fate! But this never comes out in public. For every Action there will be an opposite Reaction.
The adults in Susan’s life failed her miserably.
Including herself.
@@PoM-MoM Right !!!
I'm pretty sure he chose her for her limitations. That's what predators do.
She stabbed someone to death. Let's not forget that.
@@wheatstonebridge - Someone who was as deserving of their fate as I've ever come across. He started grooming her when she was FOURTEEN and he in his late thirties or early forties. Not only much older than her, but also a THERAPIST to whom she was confiding her deepest fears and frailties. He certainly committed statutory rape on her. He should have been jailed then - and his authority to work as a therapist rescinded. He might still be alive today (and still a swine - although prison time might have humbled his arrogance somewhat - I doubt it though). I personally don't waste any sympathy on people for whom Dame Karma rides in on her broomstick in time for the rest of us to see and shudder. And be thankful that we at least try hard to do the right and not the wrong things. Susan was no saint, herself, but, My God, being the prey of such a bastard for such a long time, from when you were FOURTEEN??? No. He had it coming. Good riddance to bad rubbish. Poor offspring of such an ill-fated coupling. No to mention the 2 older children of the first "disposable" (to that dickwad) marriage.
He definitely had it coming
1. Slept with her while she was under age, breaking the law and code of ethics for mental health practitioners (counsellors are not allowed to date even their adult patients)
2. Was actually committing adultery
3. Had her committed to control her while she was a minor
4. Provided for her financially to gain even more control
5. Proceeded to emotionally torture her for years
Question: why didn't her parents get press charges against him though?
They were using him for money. It was just a transactional relationship.
Susan’s mother didn’t know. That’s why it was never reported
I am not sure how you can be so sure about so many things even when they are not known to the public. Has there been a trial about their relationship when she was a minor? Did the former wife ever comment on their relationship? Do you have sources that speculate on his intent for committing her? Did he have a diary that gave a list of his motivations why he paid for her expenses? In what way did he torture her, what's your source? You certainly dont need trials to make your judgement of guilt. I find it almost funny that nex to statutory rape you list cheating on his wife 3 decades earlier as a reason why he "had it coming" to get murdered. You do project a lot.
@@stt5v2002 No, Dr. Grande said that he borrowed an enormous amount of money from her mom! $60,000
3:33 -5:30
He was a real piece of work, capable of manipulating all sorts of circumstances and people to fulfill his sense of entitlement.
@@valerieharris2395 that is incorrect. Did you listen to Dr. Grande in the video?
Sucks that she was groomed by that awful man. I hope she's able to find peace, somehow.
@ Yoga Dork
I hear prisons cells are quiet tranquil.
@@DannyBoy777777 In Norway, yes.
Oh yeah, Felix was the perfect person for social work and being a therapist. Good Lord.
Nothing more dangerous than a narcissist armed with psycho babble
That’s over $14,775 a month in current dollars…wow if that’s correct
I like your poetic description: "He forged her in a furnace of narcissism, shaping her into a weapon which was eventually turned against him". Wow.
The first wife got out just in time.
NUMEROUS people and the law failed Susan.
Felix should still be alive because he should have been in prison for thirty years for ever touching Susan.
The world is a better place with Felix not in it.
A very sad ,real life story, very well detailed and explained by you ,Dr.Grande.
Excellent video.
🔥😎👍
She was not only his patient but also and moreover, an underage 15 year old girl when he began raping her.
This comment hit every single last nail on the head! Bravo!
“The first wife got out just in time.”
20 years later…
@@TheDweeb002 Yeah.🙁
He isolated her and preyed upon her. Rendering her helpless at a young age to mold her to what he wanted. The perfect wife. He played with her mind and emotions for decades.
He was a twisted evil man.
@@biblemansings sometimes the victim sails over the edge and when the smoke clears, her tormentor is dead.
I guess leaving his first wife for her was a mistake too.
Thanks!
I think that any relationship that begins with crossing of boundaries has very little chances to succeed. In addition, Susan was at such a vulnerable position when she met him and he took full advantage of that. Although he lost his life, it’s truly despicable what he did to Susan.
Fantastic review of a very sad case, thank you Dr. Grande.❤️
THAT'S VERY VERY TRUE!!!! That goes hand in hand with the old saying when someone shows you their true colors, believe them the first time. If someone is willing to start out a relationship by immediately crossing boundaries and not respecting the other person's boundaries, that only means that they're going to continue to push further and further past your boundaries until you've completely given in and giving up on keeping any boundaries set!
As a huge fan and subscriber of Dr. Grande, I personally thank you for that donation and your kind words. Cheers from Vegas!
@@EarlSmith2469 That’s very kind of you.☺️
Also, I wanted to say that I LOVE your banner! That’s one of my favorite paintings!🥰💯
I had that painting as a wallpaper in my computer for years.💕
@@annalisegiovanni7032 That’s a great saying, “believe them the first time.” I couldn’t agree more. Unfortunately people take too many chances in their romantic life.😕
@@rejaneoliveira5019 ~That's a fact! It's a very unfortunate fact that that. Oftentimes people have absolutely zero problem showing their true colors shining bright as could be and it ends up in a situation where someone ends up losing their life....
He molested a 15 year old and groomed her into knowing nothing else but fear of his authority. I can understand that once she unleashed her anger ; there was no going back. In truth, she is the victim. Too bad for the kids, especially Gabriel who found his father's body.
Once he had his grip on her it was like he had taken her from her parents. He used his authority to keep her tied to him as her therapist while isolating her from her loved ones. Eventually, she adapted and thought it must be a consensual relationship. She probably never had much of a chance to date boys her age. He victimized her in the worst way. He kept trying to control her. I think she couldn't take it anymore.
sad as hell. it is a shame they brought kids into that mess. but felix was a pedo narc sociopath. no one cares hes dead.
@Pat Luxor Your comment doesn’t even make sense. Are you a twelve year old?
@Pat Luxor Your comment is totally unnecessary and only indicative of your own poor personality.
@@Schiffon whereas calling a cold-blooded murderer a 'victim' is the sign of what, a healthy personality!? You all look like idiots to me haha
This family lived nearby where I live and their sons went to a school district I worked at. The boys were terrors. It was obvious to anyone who cared to look that this family was extremely dysfunctional. When I think of this story, it always brings tears to my eyes because of how Susan was used (abused?) by Felix early on when she was terribly vulnerable. I agree with Dr. Grande that her past with Felix should have been considered when sentencing her. I believe one of the big problems with her trial was that she insisted on representing herself. She was extremely intelligent, but this was a wrong move on her part. I have often wondered if Felix, who was suicidal on many occasions throughout his life, actually manipulated Susan in to a rage so that she would do the job for him. This case is such a tragedy.
VERY interesting take...hummm 🤔
If you worked for the school district, isn't the behaviour of the children confidential information?
@@karenking5357 my thoughts exactly. Very very sad.
@@TheDeepWW I did not work there at the time the boys went to school, but the stories were heard. Their behavioral problems have been well publicized in the various books written about this sad story.
Not to mwntion, there is no school employee-student confidentiality. Medical information is protected, and there are various protected types of communication (spouse, lawyer, religious, etc.), but if I'm a teacher, I'm fully allowed to go on TV and say whatever factual information I want about my students. I'd only be bound by slander rules as long as I'm not giving out protected health information. In reality, I'm not a teacher, so I'm not going on TV for anything related to that 🤪
I just can't feel sorry for someone who forced sex and marriage out of someone with his power to imprison her. He was given that power with the expectation of using it to help people. Disgusting.
I agree. Any person who takes the Hippocratic Oath - an oath taken by physicians to uphold specific medical standards - and then turns around and misuses their authority deserves everything that they have coming to them.
Not every parent are mature enough to see things from a protective perspective
@@aubreybryan5332 what the hell are you talking about. He was her therapist and forced her to marry him.
Absolutely! Blatant Abuse.
From description, he didn't force her to do anything.
Doc, do you ever sleep? You post these for us daily and I can’t imagine how much research and preparation this takes! I always look forward to these and appreciate your work.
I agree Julie, don't burn out Dr. Grande!
One take videos ... prep work film it .. he can do 7 vids in one day easy but does maybe three days of work for a weeks worth
@@al1040 I didn’t realize he has a chronic disability. I’ve only been following Dr G for around 6 months, maybe a bit longer. I’m not saying he doesn’t look good though, I’m just amazed at how often he works to put out daily videos.
the 900k or 800k subscriber video he talks about his process for creating and how often he works. pretty enlightening if you're into this channel
@@TheOneWhoGnocchs thank you, I’ll check it out. I appreciate it.
the legal system gives violent murderers who rape, torture & murder their victims less time than susan received. she never had an equal relationship as it was more that he dominated her
Here in Australia they get a slap on the wrist and told to behave themselves.
Because men hate women and want to punish us
Trust doctors! Trust the science! Trust Dr. Fauci! Doctors are Gods among men!
@@skiprockjr.6881 You're delusional for trying to connect this to COVID conspiracy shit
@@skiprockjr.6881 Lol.
He took advantage of her as a Patient, and Young Woman. I think she really resented it, as she matured.
I recall this story. In 1996 I divorced and my atty suggested that I see a psychiatrist to determine if my then manipulative ER physician (former psychiatrist) husband somehow hurt me emotionally. First appt with psychiatrist was weird. He was late. I sat on rock wall outside his office waiting. Then there he was approaching me and every hair on the back of my neck stood up. 2nd appt. he starts by telling me that by law he HAD to share something iwth me. In short, he was charged for raping a female patient and was in the courts. He said he was innocent and the proof was that he had spent 6 months living as a woman....he was transitioning at that time. I got my butt up off that chair and literally ran out. I was married to a wacko and my doc was a wacko.....
?
So sorry love. Hope you found your feet
OMG 😳
Same with me! I told them (Doctors) to F off and left!
So were you ever able to find out if your ex hurt you? And if you eventually discovered that he did, did that help you get a better settlement?
Boundaries are there for many reasons and one of which is to keep you out of trouble. Good idea to respect boundaries.
He created a monster. I don't feel too sorry for him. But what I don't understand is why Susan's mother didn't report Felix to the licensing board and remove Susan from his therapy. My understanding is Susan was still a minor when her mother found out.
That is where I confused also. My mom would have buried the skeevie bastard.
She should have reported him to the licensing board, but maybe they were in a state where the age of consent is lower or something.
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 it’s breaking their code of ethics, you’d get your license taken away for that, indeed. Regardless of age.
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 yea even if she's of age it'd be an ethical violation.
@@enjoyslearningandtravel7957 it's apparently documented that he was at times suicidal, depressed, unable to have healthy relationships and bonds and just in general mentally unstable. So it's not as surprising perhaps that he wasnt able to adhere to an ethical or professional code.
What a fascinating case! I started out feeling sad for Felix, however, that quickly changed as I listened to more of this case.
It was very moving in your final thoughts when you said "Felix was the ultimate narcissistic manipulator. One who targeted a young victim, while he was in the position of tremendous power and trust."
The abuse of power in any profession or hierarchy is the worst kind of abuse!
Incredible video, Dr. Grande!! ♡♡
This is a case where she should be given her freedom back.
She’s not a danger to anyone else. She killed her abuser who started in on her when she was 15 years old.
Absolutely 💯
Look up Lia Tricomo case out of Seattle
Yeah he groomed and used her when she was a child in a vulnerable state, it's totally possible to me that she maybe saw no other way out from his power, most her life he had been cobtrolling her.
She was literally programmed . this is so very sad .
He was an abuser.
She could have left though before he knocked her up not once not twice but 3x!
At some point she was okay with getting with the established therapist until the $$$ and perks went away. And as soon as he started playing the divorce game BETTER than her she murdered him. Lol that’s a sore loser for ya.
I watch about an hour of Dr. Grande every day to verify there is still some sanity and reason out there.
Yeah she did it BUT she was basically kidnapped as a minor so very limited sympathy here 🙄🤦♀️
Seems she went into flight or fight mode. She divorced him but he was still allowed to stay in the home . So sad when I think of the years of fear .
He took her whole life long before she took it back by taking his. I have no doubt he was threatening, abusive and controlling. What she did might have been overkill, but I don’t believe it ever would have happened if he hadn’t done what he did to her; took her whole life. She and the children didn’t ask for this, and she was basically given to a child predator she probably felt she could never escape. Innocent? No. He stole that from her the minute he touched her. Justified? Absolutely.
I agree. He had it coming to him. Anyone who kills a sex predator has done the world a favour.
@@sharonjensen3016 yep
Extremely well put! I agree 100%
Well, I blamed her mother who knew from Susan herself that the therapist was sexually taking advantage of her and therefore was abusing his position of trust but did NOTHING! She just called him to express her dissatisfaction and tell him to stop sleeping with her daughter. That's it? You don't report him ? You don't prevent your daughter from going back to that counselor? Her complacency is staggering and her attitude as a parent rather irresponsible.
@@deniseshore9637 You may be right !
"He forged Susan in a furnace of narcissism, inadvertently shaping her into a weapon which was eventually turned against him." - I love this summary. Puts it perfectly.
Wait...he had desire for his sister? This guy was a monster. Murder is never the answer I guess, but I get why Susan felt compelled to end the hold he had over her. Great analysis as always, Dr Grande!
@@vl4394 okay
@@LDiamondz Yep. My own ancestors on one side were Sephardim, but that doesn't change the facts. Such fixations within that group are not an outlier. I am convinced there is a genetic predisposition towards a certain clustering in trauma response.
@@vl4394 Really? That's interesting. I hadn't heard that. As soon as Dr.Grande said he had desires for his sister, I knew this case was going to get really ugly. I was wondering why you said he was Jewish and nothing more. Thanks for the information. 👍
This is hands down one of the best channels on YT.
It’s my go to for sure
Dr. grande is going to break out in the main stream television I’m sure
I don’t feel sorry for him at all. She killed the man who sexually abused and groomed her. Good for her. I feel sorry for the children though to be born in such turmoil.
So you condone executions without trial, welcome to Germany 1939. By the way, 2 of her 3 sons testified against her.
You're just describing your own feelings. What possible significance could they have?
@@maxmeier532 Yes, let's not condone what she did, but even if her sons testified against her, that doesn't mean that they did not suffer to be raised on such unhealthy relationship, especially from their father's side.
@@maxmeier532 The whole “innocent till proven guilty”or “execution without trial” doesn’t really apply when a victim murders their abuser. They know they’re guilty and therefore there’s no risk of killing an innocent person.
That being said, we should always take the claims of killers with a grain of salt.
Sadly difference between what is morally right and legally right, yes it's hard to hear, but both need proof, and if you cannot prove things, as much as I'd agree with the original statement, wholeheartedly, anarchy is also not a social positive, since we cannot see the truth in people's brains.
I don't condone murder, that being stated, Susan saw no way out of an extremely abusive relationship. No one would or could help her. She was a prisoner and she murdered her jailer. That should have been taken into consideration. The most dangerous time in an abusive relationship is when the victim tries to escape.
When the authorities won't do anything to stop predators, what choice is there but to play judge and jury?
How could you possibly know whether she saw another way out?
You know when I open a new video from Dr Grande , the first thing I do is check out the cacti placements, the lamp and mug, etc. It’s important that everyone is present and accounted for - lol!
Dr Grande never fails to deliver.
He is more dependable than Uber Eats !
@@eddenoy321 ~THAT'S A TRUE DAMN FACT MY FRIEND💯💯
@@eddenoy321 ~& dat was super funny btw😂👏 I needed dat smile & dat laugh. Thank you for that darlin! I hope u had a great weekend🙏
@@annalisegiovanni7032 Hope you had good weekend as well.
@@eddenoy321 ~Thank You Much!
SIDE NOTE~not only was your original comment hilarious and very true, but another reason I found it so hilarious was because at the time I was literally waiting on Uber to deliver my food and the guy was already running HELLA LATE bc he said he "left his wallet at school" & I saw that and I thought to myself damn, that guy didn't put much thought nor effort into his excuse considering the fact that he's using school as an excuse and it's Sunday 😂🙆♀️
You’ve become completely outstanding at crime drama analysis. “This is my theory, just my opinion.”
If books were still in vogue, you would be a best seller! People will be waiting for your next publication. Marvelous detective and story telling abilities as well as intelligent.
I have been a subscriber for a long while and I always feel comforted knowing you're in the world Dr. Grande. Thank you always, for all your hard work to bring us informative, educational videos about urges, pertinent issues. Plus we get to see you also, which is a blessing.
God bless your loved ones dear Dr. Grande. 💚🌵
Fortunately, any therapist today who is found to be having an affair with not only a patient but an underage one at that, would be arrested and their license suspended and the personal relationship immediately quashed.
Our society has come a long way in properly dealing with abuse-of-power relationships. It’s painful to think of what some people had to endure in the not-too-distant past. Another interesting story and analysis by Dr. Grande.
Sure, if it’s “found.” If you think this isn’t still happening you’re naive.
My cousin committed suicide in the 1992 at the age of 32. Her family was not able to prove it but it was highly suspected that she had an affair with her psychiatrist. If that were true, it really makes you wonder about that doctor. She was quite ill and he took advantage. You wonder what would be the motive/satisfaction?
@@peggypeggy4137 I am so sorry for your loss.
@@PaganGrace Thank you.
Actually if you go to a lot of survivor circles, Susan's story is still pretty common. The issue is a lot of boards' don't listen to survivors and rarely act unless they have another therapist willing to advocate for them or if the media picks up on them.
I agree. I remember that case and I do think him to be more than somewhat responsible for her actions as well.
Your closing sentence seemed to me insightful and culminated to a fine, even a dramatic point. Of course, it would hit close to home for any truly qualified person in your field. Bravissimo!
Wow, very powerful and well said ending statement.
Wow, I remember reading the book about this. What always stuck out about this murder was that she was afraid of him all the time. She was afraid of him so much so that she even stabbed the bottom of his feet during the murder so he couldn't run after her if he tried to escape while being killed.
I don't remember that. That point alone was evidence that should have screamed. Funny how what she came in to therapy with doesn't get mentioned. Polk was a specialist.
Oh well. Another narc bites the dust. Felix had it coming imo. Stay up, Susan. 💪🏾💜
The analogy you used “forged in the furnace? Foundry? 🔥? Of narcissism and inadvertently formed a weapon.” Damned good writing. You’ve won the award for me for the day of best writer, and I’m going to encounter Shakespeare and Shirley Jackson later. Thanks for the content.
Felix kind of had it coming though..... I wanna feel bad for him but I'm struggling to.
He's not the first authority figure to take advantage of someone younger and more vulnerable, nor will he be the last. It's still going on, and those who know stand by and do nothing to stop it.
Susan was a minor when Felix abused her, he broke the law in both his abuse and in using the powers he had to threaten to have incarcerated. This is a classic abuse case not different to similar cases where children are kidnapped and kept locked up and abused by their captors. Though Susan had some amount of freedom it was always with a threat hanging over her.
Thank you for the upload and your analysis, Dr. Grande. I always enjoy your videos.
I liked a lot your final thoughts on the case, when you relate to the circumstances of the crime, arguing for less punishment, as she saw no other escape from her narcissistic husband!
I particularly enjoyed your analysis of this.
There was a social worker back in the 80’s who was killed by her client. He was psychotic and during their session she took a phone call. I think it was from her boyfriend but I am not sure. The client stabbed her to death. I was a young social worker. It really underlined the importance of boundaries to me! This happened in Los Angeles.
I heard that story too but I thought the victim was a probation officer.
Horrible for the woman's boyfriend.
I'm probably missing something. What part is the boundary the murdered therapist crossed? Taking a phone call during session?
@@deborahsunflower939 Yes
@@deborahsunflower939 Yes.With a psychotic person in the room
@@albertarose6821 As I recall it was a social worker. I had just finished my social work degree so it stood out to me. I think her first name was Robin.
Stabbed 30+ times! She must have really hated the guy!
He should’ve just give it to her everything she wanted, but he played her the same way he played his first wife. He is responsible for his own death, she was the monster he created. Sad case.
I don't blame her. Do you
Thanks! I look forward to watching your videos every day. There are so many true crime channels but yours is truly unique!
I'm going to share this with my classmates at TCSPP. It's a great reminder of the ACA Ethics Code
“Forged her in a furnace of narcissism” that’s an outstanding statement, and I am so encouraged that you did take into account all of the suffering and inappropriate relationship.
Was 16 years too much?
Let’s just say I hope she gets out early on parole
Susan is incarcerated but probably more free than she's been since a teen.
Yeah poor wittle murderer.
I'm familiar with this Case! Thank You for your Analysis!
The fact two of her sons betrayed her to protect the father in death.
If I remember right the judge actually wasn’t happy with those sons. I felt the judge really didn’t want to be harsh but he follow the legal system that is full of holes.
The jury got it wrong.
An abuser was killed and they got mad at the victim.
In complicated cases I'd be inclined for a JUDGE trial. A jury trial is a CHOICE for the defendant, and not always a good one. AND she "defended" herself? No. Not recommended.
I love your channel Dr. Grande for 3 main reasons....The content and commentary are awesome and last but not least I find your voice so soothing it puts me to sleep at night...I just click on any previously viewed video and play it with low volume next to my pillow...Within 5 minutes I'm out 😴 no other sleep aids required....Thanks Dr. Grande
Just a reminder I'm not diagnosing anybody in this video; only speculating about what could be happening while wearing a blue gingham shirt like this.
Looks like a sad picnic blanket
@@woadxqueen666 what? yall are wack as hell. gingham is really popular rn
Someday you`ll be banned from Twitter for this racist comment!
What even is this comment?
While respecting his wardrobe boundaries, your comment is quite funny!
My mother did secretarial work for various individuals at her home. A noted well published psychiatrist locked his two older teenagers out of his residence which was also his office. Later overheard he had a female patient in there with him & not for the first time with this particular woman. The mum lived out of state & the shrink had total custody. The son drove them to our house as both were distraught & had no place to go. They eventually left after a few hours & apparently got into their house. My mother quit working for him so don't know the ultimate outcome. WOW.
Much of my life and personality was shaped by MY husband (who luckily is a better person than Felix seemed to have been). I'm 38 and we've been together for almost 25 years...so I'm sure for anyone who can count, it's obvious that I grew up with him and he is a "little" older than me. Although he didn't have malicious intentions, I think back to my 15 yr old self and sometimes feel angry. And we are still together and love each other....so with her current circumstances, I can't imagine the rage this woman must have felt. Murder is wrong, but I have never agreed with your opinion more than I do in this case. I think there were some extenuating circumstances, to say the least.
Wow! You were 13 and he wasn’t a minor? Seems totally inappropriate like a grooming kind of relationship, I hope he has matured and the relationship is healthy now. I could see how there is resentment.
I guess all those girls when I was in high school bragging about their 20 year old boyfriends are victims now, pathetic
“Although he didn’t have bad intentions, I think back to my 15 year old self and sometimes feel angry”
There’s a confession there somewhere. Hope you find peace
@@danparish1344Before my Dad was a Christian, he attempted to marry me off to this one specific man who was 21 and actually my father's boss that's a long story of why my father wasn't lost but he really admired this young man and thought he'd make a good husband for me which he thought I needed an older man he comes from a family of 13 being the youngest of 13 siblings the last five kids are the only ones that survived so I'm 71 meaning that two of those five were girls and they both married three times the first marriage they were 13 only they were I don't use the word forced but encouraged to get married and their third husbands were extremely successful cause you know they fortunately had common sense they just were kids when it all started ended up with oh my gosh success in every way they were stay at home wives but your husband had good success they had lots of kids grandchildren great-grandchildren and eventually everybody got into church I'm a family because we come from a long line of I'm just preachers from 1640 from Wales. MANY thru the "centuries!" this is the way country Pope thought if you come from Kentucky and Tennessee you didn't mess with your sister but you definitely got married young you know how to family I was actually picked on because I did not want to get married at age 20 by this time my father is associate pastor had was actually in the middle of attending seminary in Dallas-Fort Worth area... but my sister married at 16 and nobody understood why I wasn't married first and honestly I had many proposals and I'm not bragging because all I live was very unhappy most of my adult life several divorces I didn't grow up till much later in life always looking to appease my father from a distance I always wanted his approval but the only thing is I never did want to get married part of that was because I should say I did not want to get married young I'm talking about even 20 was too young for me but when you have the opportunity to date a lot of guys then you start wanting a different flavor and I was a virgin when I got married so it wasn't like I was as wild thing but I just couldn't settle for you know a good person and there were many that crossed my paths there was one person I wanted to marry when I was 16 that I had left up in Ohio when we moved to Texas for Dad to attend Seminary but my father wouldn't let me marry him at the time because he wasn't a Baptist I know ridiculous but somehow I ended up marrying the bad guys I'm not trying to air my dirty laundry I'm saying depends on your generation but there still are those I should say most of them have passed on a lot of them wanted their children to marry young and have lots of kids.... and I'm very sorry that she endured so much and again there's no rhyme no reason for murder except for self-defense and then that is not even considered murder in Scripture I know it's crazy but I just thought I would share to you another real life story that's similar in the because I got myself into those bad situations of a very manipulative narcissist who one of them the strongest of all my husband's meaning emotionally stronger really use my Christianity against me yet he married me because I was a Christian too further his own career as family had bookous of money here in Texas family business that's extremely well known but I could only handle 4 years of marriage and two of them we didn't even live together to the four years and even though we own five houses and three sailboats I ended up with none of that when we got divorced it gave me a mere $20,000 in $10,000 increments so a month apart I got a I never even got to keep my wedding ring so he literally came up to the office where I worked on a day he know the doctor wasn't there and I was the only one in the office and he fought me for my wedding ring until he got that ring off my finger and he was 6'4 and I'm five four yeah crazy stuff happens and who knows what have happened if I could have even withstood living with him like for years anyway it was my life story then LOL
@@sbFreakinxRican oh yeah! And we have 2 daughters ,21 and 14....so when he looks at our children...it hits him... And I have found peace..we both have..and I know that even without words. He's acknowledged the error.
This is a case where a female (most often the case) victim of abuse who retaliates is being unjustly convicted. She got 16 years to life, which doesn't reflect the fact that she had little choice but to murder her abuser in order to protect herself.
She had many chances before the last which was murder.
She could not have gotten involved with a married man in the first place.
People give to many excuses for minor girls that defy their parents advise. Looks like the girls have all the rights in the world only because they are minor. More responsibility needs to be given to minors as they approach the age of consent.
It is illogical to think that a day before the 18th birthday one has no responsibility at all and in 24 hours is an adult fully responsible.
In my opinion both got what they deserved.
@@ioanaanaoi8232 I would watch you around kids and teenagers! That being said, your last statement is correct. That's why older men and women should not date teenagers. Which is what 18 and 19year olds are! The human brain is not fully developed until the age of 25.
@@ioanaanaoi8232 I will think more of this idea in a general sense. It is logical. There have been cases where minors are tried as adults. For example, in cases of teens committing premeditative murder. However, I am not in agreement in this case (for reasons mentioned in my earlier comment).
@@ioanaanaoi8232He was her therapist. He used his position to manipulate her.
@@Blissfulnessence if she was his only underage female client I would agree that he bears the full responsibility to manipulate her. It is obvious that he had many other underage female clients that were not inclined to have sexual relationship with him.
She bears some responsibility for what she got into. Playing with fire you get burned. My point is she's not a victim that had murder as the only option. My previous comment was regarding giving her credit for the crime as it was her only option.
In the early 90's I had a referral to Felix in Berkeley. I met with him in his home where his office was. Susan would randomly walk in with coffee for him. She entered from another door that connected to their kitchen. A couple of times I'd see a couple of the boys sitting at a kitchen table. Although his coffee was freshened up during our sessions, (yes, this was disruptive) I was never offered any. I also recall the atmosphere as being cold.
Their house was gorgeous though.
Dr. Grande is a great support structure for mental health on TH-cam.
The ending was breathtaking
I haven’t been following your content, Dr. Grande, since the Depp/Turd trial began. However, I look forward to binge watching your episodes in 4 weeks 😌
lol. Same here!
I wish Dr. Grande would broadcast news on a major network. His tone, reading any story, is considerate and calming-and if drollery is appropriate-it manifests. He would make the world a calmer place!! I am sooo tired of news hype.
Hello Dr. Grande❣️ Thank you for the new video! Watching a new video from you is THE PERFECT WAY to wind down for the end of the evening & end of the weekend. I hope you had a great weekend! Much love❣️
Wow, i think i started following you when you were less than 100k followers. (I think ). I just noticed >1 M…congrats Dr Grande. Well done. And we love your comedy, disguised as helpful mental health content we can all appreciate and understand……😊
Remarkably articulate presentation and analysis. Impressive in every way.
She killed him after 15 years. So, when he wasn't useful anymore. They did each other well. I won't cry for any of them.
Exactly.
When was he ever "useful" to her? He groomed and manipulated a teenager, essentially molded her into the woman he wanted her to be, then married her.
Just hearing you helps me feel good about myself, really don't know why but you are calming
Shaping her into a weapon. What a great metaphor.
"Attempted to find an exit ramp where there was no possibility to get back on to the highway," that's the sense of humor that keeps me coming back Todd!! 😆
Dear Dr Grande,
Thank you for covering a case about the unique dynamic in a relationship between a narcissistic authority figure (doctor, teacher, etc) and a student/mentee. I myself have lived the hell of such a relationship. I wasn't the only one, either, and I tried to rally the others to speak out against him, but nothing was done - as it turns out, the committee was doing similar things with yet other girls. This was a summer program taking place in Paris focused on composition, music theory, and chamber music. The people who run it are a trio of stooges whom have all - ALL - had separate accusatory incidents at one point or another. Yet, in the world of classical music in all its conservatism, nothing was done, and I was ostracized, for whatever reason.
There are few places for female composers in a male world. We have historically been told that we do not have creative bones in our body - unless, as my colleague Evan put it, "a man puts one in her." This gives you an idea of the dynamic. And that was not at the aforementioned summer program - that was during my masters which took place at arguably one of the best conservatory in the country if not the world. The three stooges are also affiliated, especially the head of the three.
What is the best way to navigate this? What kind of therapy might one turn to, and what actions can one take?
Much respect, and thank you.
Dr. A
Athena, sorry you had to go through that.
Brilliant analysis Dr. Grande!
this is such an unfortunate culmination of events. It is so unfortunate nothing happened as an intervention at literally any point from the time Susan was 15.
and I agree, there should have been a strong consideration for Felix's subverted role in the decades of Trauma Susan endured. The propositional nature of the law when it's a he said she said thing especially when one of the people are not there, very difficult to get past. this is so unfortunate overall, especially for the kids.
You’re analysis was brilliant. So grateful that you are offering analysis on so many current topics. Please keep them coming.
Listening to your intro about Felix he had many successes but he was a little twisted! Now back to the story!
hmm, i've known a couple people who this could have (or should have) happened to back when i saw such people. they don't get that professional boundaries are there to protect them too.
Good evening Dr Grande and hello
You always do a great job, thanks for the video DR.GRANDE.
I guess they didn’t have a licensing board to report to back then
It continues to amaze me how these people have such rotten, unhealthy marriages yet just keep on having children.
I just love the way you break things down further at the end. Another great post.
Thank you as always for your fascinating videos, Dr. Grande! Would you ever consider looking at the Issei Sagawa case? I've always found it interesting and would love to hear your analysis.
Think he might have. Not sure ✌️😎
@@daveatkins3568 I thought he had too, initially, but I can't seem to find the video! I'm not sure if I imagined it, haha.
I actually knew Dr. Polk when I was a kid. He was my therapist when I was a teenager in the mid 90s. I remember him being really cool, easy to talk to as a typical angry male teen that I was then. Regardless of who he was in his private life, I was shocked and saddened to learn that his life ended this way. 😔
Anyone ever seen the movie Dressed to Kill? It’s a bizarre tale about a therapist and his client who ended up killed.
Enjoyed this video as much as I enjoyed all the others by Dr. Grande! Pure genius ! Thanks for all your hard work !
Yeah this is the case of a child murdering their abuser and I don't feel sorry for him. She was underage.
Oh! That face and eyebrow raise on “only speculating” ....that was great!
Appreciate your channel. What do you think about “better up”? I’m troubled by the lack of licensed mental health professionals in this organization.
Hi Dr. Grande! What a great analysis, as always. I really appreciate your consistent method of giving background information, sketching the timeline of the crime, and giving a clear analysis, followed by a grounded but nuanced opinion based on facts, in response to speculative theories or truly empathy fueled doubt. One little thing, I noticed an inconsistency in the timeline: murder Oct. 2002 - conviction June 2002 :) Looked it up afterwards and conviction was June 2006. By the way: I also love your straight-face delivery of humor and your soothing calm voice. Perfect combo!
Stabbing a person 33 times in self defense. Wow.
Exactly.
Finally a good read 👏👏👏
I mean, I might have gotten a little stabby if I'd have been married to that guy too. 🤷🏼♀️
Divorce is a thing you psycho. 😅 she killed him over being told to work. Lol
Killing is never justified
I wish Dr. Grande did a video on Quartz Cristal channel.
Hi Dr. Grande, I'm really curious to hear your thoughts on Steven Pladl, who had a baby with his own daughter and wound up killing them before committing suicide.
Always interesting.
Thank you.
Peace 💕🇺🇲
I just got the notification!! Good old TH-cam!!
Excellent analysis.
You are so cool. I enjoy all your videos. This one is tragic. Given the time, late 60's early 70's, maybe her mother could have done more to address this out of control therapist. Or maybe she tried and failed. I am not blaming the mother. Later she loaned him money. Crazy and sad story.
Can you tell us about the mental and personality factors involved with Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassidy. Particularly the adventures described in Kerouac's Book, "On The Road". Also the beginning of the beatnik movement. Thank you for videos.
Dear Doctor Grande : Thank you for the very thought provoking series. I wish for you many more years of presentations.
Given all of the circumstances, I believe a more appropriate decision should have been a declaration of ' Not Guilty By Reason of Temporary Insanity '.
Be well, Doctor.
Dr Grande, have you considered doing a video about the life and mental health issues faced by the late country music star, Naomi Judd?
Her case is most for a series, I suppose. The whole family actually had some issues.