Cavanaugh v. Donahue et al

Filing 74

Judge Denise J. Casper: ORDER entered. MEMORANDUM OF DECISION(Casper, Denise)

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
DISTRICT OF MASSACHUSETTS
__________________________________________
)
TODD R. CAVANAUGH,
)
)
Plaintiff
)
)
v.
)
Civil Action No. 12-11378-DJC
)
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
)
)
Defendant.
)
)

MEMORANDUM OF DECISION

CASPER, J.
I.

December 31, 2014

INTRODUCTION
Plaintiff Todd R. Cavanaugh (“Cavanaugh”) brings this action against the Defendant, the

United States of America,1 under the Federal Tort Claims Act (“FTCA”), 28 U.S.C. § 2674, for
claims arising out of Cavanaugh’s alleged sexual relationship with Renee T. Donahue
(“Donahue”), a Veterans Administration (“VA”) rehabilitation technician. Cavanaugh claims
that Donahue used her position as a counselor in the VA’s drug treatment program to initiate a
sexual relationship with him, which undermined Cavanaugh’s recovery and led to his relapse
into drug abuse. The matter proceeded to a bench trial on Cavanaugh’s claims for professional
malpractice (Count I) and intentional infliction of emotional distress (Count III).

1

Having

Cavanaugh filed this action against Renee T. Donahue, the United States Department of
Veterans Affairs and Edith Nourse Rogers VA Medical Center. The United States was
substituted for these defendants pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2679. D. 18.
1

received proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law from the parties, D. 65, 66, the Court
now issues its findings of facts and conclusions of law and enters judgment for the Defendant.
II.

PROCEDURAL HISTORY
Cavanaugh filed his complaint on July 30, 2012. D. 1. Before trial, Cavanaugh filed a

motion for spoliation of evidence and for sanctions on March 12, 2014. D. 35. The Defendant
filed a motion for judgment as a matter of law on May 30, 2014. D. 46. On June 11, 2014,
Cavanaugh filed an assented-to motion of voluntary dismissal of his claims for breach of
fiduciary duty (Count II) and negligent supervision (Count IV). D. 54. On June 12, 2014, at the
final pretrial conference, the Court denied Cavanaugh’s motion for spoliation and sanctions, D.
35, granted his motion to dismiss Counts II and IV with prejudice, D. 54, and denied the
Government’s motion for judgment as a matter of law, D. 46, as to Count III, reserving judgment
on Count I. D. 56, 58.
The matter proceeded to a bench trial on the two remaining counts, Counts I and III on
June 16, 2014 (“Trial Day 1”). Testimony continued on June 17, 2014 (“Trial Day 2”), June 18,
2014 (“Trial Day 3”) and June 19, 2014 (“Trial Day 4”). During the trial, the Court heard the
testimony of Cavanaugh and Donahue, and the following witnesses: (1) Sandra Diaz, Ph.D., a
clinical psychologist at the Bedford VA Medical Center; (2) Christopher Krebs, Ph.D., another
clinical psychologist at the Bedford VA Medical Center; (3) Timothy Dalton, a former patient at
the Bedford VA Medical Center who now works at the Brockton VA; and (4) Herbert French, a
rehabilitation technician at the Bedford VA Medical Center. After the submission of proposed
findings of fact and conclusions of law from counsel, D. 65, 66, the Court heard closing
arguments on July 23, 2014 (“Trial Day 5”).

2

III.

FINDINGS OF FACT
In light of the evidence presented to the Court, the Court makes the following findings of

fact:
A.

VA’s Treatment Program

1.

When Cavanaugh moved to Massachusetts in 2008, he sought treatment at the

Edith Nourse Rogers VA Medical Center in Bedford, Massachusetts (the “Bedford VA”). Ex.
21 at 2; Ex. 24 at 4.2 Cavanaugh was admitted into the Bedford VA’s Intensive Day Treatment
Program (“IDTP”) and Aftercare program in April 2009, after reporting that his cocaine and
alcohol use was increasing. Ex. 24 at 5. IDTP is a two week in-patient program designed to
help veterans detoxify and recover. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:88, 99.3 Aftercare is an outpatient program designed to help veterans achieve permanent sobriety. Donahue Testimony, Tr.
3:8, 28; Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:17-19. Veterans are assigned a counselor and followed by a
medical team to ensure that they do not relapse. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:44; Dr. Diaz
Testimony, Tr. 1:19-20.
2.

Veterans’ recoveries are assisted by rehabilitation technicians, as well as by

licensed nurses, a licensed nurse supervisor, licensed social workers, licensed psychologists,
and physicians. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:44. The rehabilitation technician reports directly to
a nurse manager. Ex. 3 at 4. The work of a rehabilitation technician is supervised by a nurse,
social worker, and psychologist. Id. Rehabilitation technicians are required to seek assistance
2

The Court relies upon the exhibits admitted at trial and the draft transcripts of the trial.
References to the docket are referenced as “D. __.” References to exhibits admitted at trial are
as “Ex. __.” The reference to pagination of exhibits is to the pages in the exhibit as filed with the
Court, rather than to the pagination of the original documents.
3

References to the transcript of trial testimony are abbreviated as “Tr. __:__,” with the
first number representing the day of trial on which the referenced testimony occurred and the
second number referencing the specific page (or pages) of the transcript of that day’s testimony.
3

from one of these professionals whenever presented with a medical situation beyond their
knowledge. Id.
3.

Dr. Sandra Diaz (“Dr. Diaz”) is a clinical psychologist employed at the Bedford

VA who works with substance abuse patients. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:16-18. Dr. Diaz has been
a practicing psychologist for over twenty years.

Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:16.

She knows

Cavanaugh from observing his work on the Veterans Construction Team, a program under the
aegis of the Compensated Work Therapy (“CWT”) program, and from conversing with him.
Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:32, 39.
4.

CWT is a program under which recovering veterans may earn wages for work

performed on VA projects. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:85. Its purpose is to provide veterans
with structure, income and a sense of purpose through being engaged in productive work. Id. at
98.
5.

Timothy Dalton (“Dalton”) is an employee of the Brockton, Massachusetts VA

Medical Center (the “Brockton VA”) and a recovering alcoholic who first met Cavanaugh in
February 2010 when they were both patients at the Bedford VA. Dalton Testimony, Tr. 1:76.
They later resided at the Crescent House, a residential facility for recovering addicts together.
Id. at 77. Dalton and Cavanaugh discussed their recovery progress with each other. See e.g., id.
at 79-80.
6.

Dr. Christopher Krebs (“Dr. Krebs”) is a clinical psychologist at the Bedford VA

who treats patients who suffer from substance abuse. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:196-97. Dr.
Krebs treated Cavanaugh in 2011. Id. at 205.
B.

Todd Cavanaugh

7.

Cavanaugh is a Marine Corps veteran who suffers from alcohol and cocaine

4

addiction. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:122, 129.
1.
8.

Personal Background

Cavanaugh moved out of his family’s home at the age of seventeen after having a

difficult relationship with his mother and stepfather. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:84; Ex. 24 at
3-4.
2.
9.

Education and Professional History

After graduation from high school, Cavanaugh worked a variety of jobs.

Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:123. In 1985, Cavanaugh enlisted in the United States Marine
Corps. Ex. 21 at 2. He spent the majority of his service stationed in San Diego, California. Ex.
24 at 4; Ex. 21 at 5. He was never engaged in combat, but while in the military Cavanaugh
worked primarily as an electrician repairing helicopters. Id. He was honorably discharged from
the Marine Corps in 1989. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:124; Ex. 37 at 1.
10.

After being honorably discharged from the Marines, Cavanaugh returned to

Massachusetts briefly before settling in California where he worked a variety of jobs.
Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:124; Ex. 21 at 5. Beginning around 1990, Cavanaugh had a
succession of jobs, including but not limited to employment with the City of Escondido,
California, as a construction worker then as a supervisor for the Department of Public Works
and later as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:124, 127;
Ex. 21 at 5; Ex. 27 at 5. He was terminated from the City of Escondido job in 1995, Ex. 55; see
also Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:124-26, and later left the postal service in 2008, because he
felt it had become too stressful to handle and that it was affecting his sobriety. Cavanaugh
Testimony, Tr. 1:127.

5

11.

Cavanaugh moved to Massachusetts in 2008 and worked as a “mental health

worker” at McLean Hospital. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:128; Ex. 21 at 5; Ex. 27 at 5. His
employment at the hospital ended in December 2009 following a dispute over his allegation of a
workplace injury. Ex. 21 at 5; Ex. 54; Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:110-11.
12.

At various times from 2010 until 2012, Cavanaugh was employed by the VA in

its CWT program for addicts. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:10-11, 85; Ex. 16 at 1; Ex. 24 at 2.
Cavanaugh’s CWT employment was disrupted by a December 2010 cocaine relapse. Ex. 31 at
1. Cavanaugh has not had a long term job since leaving the CWT program and remains
unemployed. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:108-09.
3.

Medical History
a)

13.

Disability

While serving in the Marine Corps, Cavanaugh suffered several non-combat

related injuries to his spine, knee, and foot. Ex. 37 at 1-2. As a result of these injuries,
Cavanaugh began receiving VA disability benefits, for partial disability, in 1989, the year that
he was discharged from the Marines. Id. On July 11, 2012, Cavanaugh’s rating was increased
to one hundred percent disability due to “Major Depressive Disorder Associated with
Musculoligamentus Strain of the Cervical Spine.” Id. at 1; Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:83.
14.

In addition to Cavanaugh’s Musculoligamentous Strain of the Cervical Spine, the

VA has determined that Cavanaugh has other disabilities related to his service. Ex. 37 at 1-2.
He is 50% disabled due to “Right Knee Limitation of Extension,” Ex. 37 at 1; 20% disabled due
to “Status Post Left Plantar Fasciitis Release and Scraping of Heel Spur,” Id.; 20% disabled due
to “Radiculopathy Associated with Musculoligamentous Strain of the Cervical Spine,” Ex. 37 at

6

2; 10% disabled due to “Degenerative Changes Right Knee,” Id.; and 10% disabled due to
“Tinnitus Associated with Hearing Loss, Left Ear.” Id.
b)
15.

Mental Health

Cavanaugh has struggled with depression and anxiety. Ex. 21 at 2. In 2001,

Cavanaugh was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Ex. 27 at 3. Cavanaugh
was treated for “clinical depression” in California in 2005, id., and has been diagnosed with
PSTD attributed to childhood trauma. Ex. 21 at 4. At the Bedford VA, Cavanaugh was
diagnosed with and treated for depression. Ex. 24 at 7; Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:134.
c)
16.

History of Addiction

Cavanaugh’s use of alcohol began in his early teens and his cocaine use began

around the age of nineteen. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:129-30; Ex. 21 at 1. However, due in
part to residual trauma from his turbulent childhood and the failure of his first marriage,
Cavanaugh’s drug and alcohol abuse escalated in later years. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:130.
17.

Cavanaugh made his first attempt at addiction recovery around the age of twenty-

two but did not complete the program. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:135-36. In subsequent
years, Cavanaugh has repeatedly tried, but failed to achieve permanent sobriety from drugs and
alcohol despite rehabilitation programs. Ex. 21 at 1. Cavanaugh has previously reported that
his longest period of sobriety was two years. Ex. 24 at 7.
18.

Cavanaugh admits that his substance abuse is “terrifying,” characterized by loss

of friends, family and relationships. “Using is about destroying [relationships] and everything
in your life.” Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:132-33.
4.

Personal Relationship History

7

19.

Cavanaugh has a long history of difficulty in his relationships with women due, in

part, to his addictions, his PTSD and his difficult childhood. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:7-8,
83-84.
20.

Cavanaugh’s first marriage was strained, in part, by his drug addiction and they

divorced in 1998. Ex. 21 at 2; Ex. 27 at 4. He has two children from this marriage, both of
whom reside in California. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:121-22.
21.

Cavanaugh married again in October 2007. Ex. 27 at 5; Cavanaugh Testimony,

Tr. 1:123, 128. He and his second wife separated in 2008 and were divorced in 2010. Ex. 21.
22.

More recently, Cavanaugh had a turbulent relationship with his now ex-girlfriend,

Martha Rumble. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:72. After an explosive argument with Rumble,
the Gloucester District Court issued a “stay away” order against Cavanaugh, and, in June 2010,
the charges of assault and battery and harassment were continued without a finding and he was
placed on probation until June 2011. Ex. 24 at 3; Ex. 56. Although he suffered persistent panic
attacks in connection with these charges, he continued a relationship with Rumble through
2010. Ex. 24 at 3. Cavanaugh considered the relationship to be a “safety net,” despite the
fighting and allegations of abuse. Ex. 24 at 3.
23.

In counseling sessions, Cavanaugh joked with Dr. Diaz that he would still call her

doctor after they were married. Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:39. Dr. Diaz felt that this behavior
was “normal transference,” id., which is common when a client “has positive feelings” towards
a therapist. Id. at 40. Dr. Diaz explained that when people open up to a therapist, often “it's a
new experience for them to have someone completely accept them and not judge them,” which
can lead to feelings of intimacy. Id. at 41. Dr. Diaz explained that, as a clinical psychologist,
she has been trained to deal with feelings of transference in her patients and to create the

8

necessary boundaries without creating shame in the patient. Id. at 41-42. Dr. Diaz confirmed
that in her experience it is “fairly common for transference to take place.” Id. at 41.
C.

Renee Donahue
1.

24.

Personal Background

Donahue is a recovering addict and has worked as a rehabilitation technician at

the Bedford VA since 2007, helping other addicts to maintain their sobriety.
Testimony, Tr. 3:2, 12-13.

Donahue

She works with her husband, Don Donahue, who is also a

rehabilitation technician, and they have three children and three grandchildren. Id. at 4.
2.
25.

Education and Work History

As a teenager, Donahue dropped out of high school, but she received her GED in

1995. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:11-12.

Although Donahue has taken a few college level

courses, she has no other experience in higher education or trade school. Id. at 11.
26.

As noted above, Donahue works as a rehabilitation technician at the Bedford VA.

A rehabilitation technician assists recovering addicts maintain their sobriety, through teaching
group sessions, individual meetings with veterans, and managing their administrative needs.
Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:14-15; French Testimony, Tr. 4:90-91; Ex. 3.
27.

When Donahue was hired, she started as a rehabilitation technician in the IDTP.

Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:8-9, 95. She was later assigned to the Aftercare program. Id.
28.

In both IDTP and the Aftercare program, Donahue served as a counselor for

veterans struggling with substance abuse. Ex. 3, Ex. 4 at 1. A former addict herself, veterans
discuss their recovery goals and methods with her and she helps them with their recovery
treatment plans. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:98-99. She assists with the activities of daily
living; identifying high risk situations, relaxation and confidence techniques, monitoring the

9

veterans to make sure their recovery stayed on track, and intervene in crises. Id. at 95, 97. The
ultimate goal is for the veteran to become self-sufficient. Id. at 98-99; Ex. 3.
29.

As a rehabilitation technician, Donahue meets individually with veterans assigned

to her, following up with the veterans if they do not attend meetings and appointments, and
assisting veterans in arranging other services and with administrative tasks.

Donahue

Testimony, Tr. 3:88-89; Ex. 3. Donahue also runs group therapy sessions with veterans. In the
Aftercare program, she has run three group sessions each week. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:10.
Because Cavanaugh was in the Aftercare program, he was required to attend group sessions.
Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:9-10; Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:3.
30.

Donahue is also required to maintain regular contact with veterans and assist them

in finding housing and employment. Ex. 3 at 4. It was “typical” for Donahue to keep in touch
with her assigned veterans by telephone. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:28.
31.

The position of rehabilitation technician does not require a license or formal

training, and Donahue is not licensed as a medical professional or other professional. Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:10-11; French Testimony, Tr. 4:80; Ex. 3.

She is not a highly skilled

professional, but her value to the professional team at the Bedford VA is being able to get the
veterans to interact appropriately in group therapy sessions. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:14-15.
32.

As a rehabilitation technician, Donahue has access to the veterans’ medical

records, but she does not make medical diagnoses. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:2-3; 5-6. She
references the medical records only when relevant to her interaction with the veterans. Id.
33.

Donahue received no formal training for the position prior to starting as a

rehabilitation technician. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:88. Rather, her training consisted of
following experienced rehabilitation technicians, watching group sessions, sitting in on

10

roundtables, and limited computer-based trainings on conflicts, diversity, fire safety, and similar
topics. Id. at 89; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:12. Consequently, Donahue had no training in
“transference” or in setting personal boundaries with patients. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:75;
Dr. Diaz Testimony; Tr. 1:40-42 (regarding nature of transference).
34.

Donahue is a GS-7 employee and has not earned more than approximately

$45,000 in salary. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:4-5; Ex. 3 at 1.
D.

Cavanaugh and Donahue’s Relationship
1.

35.

Cavanaugh and Donahue’s Relationship Prior to June 2010

Cavanaugh and Donahue first met in May 2009 when he was in the IDTP.

Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:2; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:19. Donahue was subsequently
assigned to be Cavanaugh’s rehabilitation technician in the Aftercare program. Ex. 5 at 2;
Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:2. Cavanaugh was transferred into the Aftercare program from
IDTP after relapsing in the winter of 2009. Ex. 5 at 1; Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:9-10.
36.

Cavanaugh was required to meet with Donahue once a week so that she could

help him avoid relapses and maintain a healthy life. Ex. 5 at 2-3; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:8.
37.

Upon entering Aftercare, Cavanaugh informed Donahue his long term goals were

“to work in the field of addiction/substance abuse, maintain [his] recovery on a daily basis and
achieve financial stability.”

Ex. 5 at 2; see Dr. Diaz Testimony; Tr. 1:35; Cavanaugh

Testimony, Tr. 2:5.
38.

While not officially part of a treatment plan, Cavanaugh also discussed with

Donahue his issues with women, such as his inability to commit, his problems maintaining
intimate relationships, his regret over his inability to commit to a relationship, and his desire for

11

a monogamous relationship. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:7-8; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:30,
32.
39.

In 2009, while in Aftercare, Cavanaugh relapsed several times.

Ex. 6 at 1

(detailing a relapse at the beginning of August 2009); Ex. 11 at 1 (detailing a relapse in
November 2009); Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:9.
a)
40.

August 2009 Relapse

On August 3, 2009, Cavanaugh telephoned Donahue and informed her that he had

relapsed again. Ex. 6 at 1. Cavanaugh reported that he was struggling with depression, and that
several stressors had contributed to his relapse, including a fight between him and his mother
and a “verbally explosive and abusive” fight with girlfriend Martha Rumble. Id. He reported to
Donahue that his anger and depression from these events caused him to seek out cocaine and get
“high all weekend.” Id.
41.

Following his relapse, Cavanaugh telephoned Donahue regularly in August 2009

to inform her of his status. Ex. 7 at 1-2. On several occasions, he contacted Donahue to talk
about his ongoing relationship problems with Martha Rumble and his difficult relationship with
his mother. Id. He reported that he was not using drugs, and that attending Aftercare with
Donahue was helping him to stay clean. Id.
b)
42.

November 2009 Relapse

In October and November 2009, Cavanaugh continued to report to Donahue that

he was struggling in his relationship with Martha Rumble. Ex. 9 at 1, Ex. 10 at 2.
43.

On October 2, 2009, Donahue reported making three attempts to call Cavanaugh

because he had not made contact or attended Aftercare since September 16, 2009. Ex. 8 at 1. It
was standard practice to make three attempts to reach a veteran who had failed to show up at

12

treatment events.

Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:16, 32.

Under these circumstances, a

rehabilitation technician assumes that the veteran has relapsed.

Id.

When Donahue

reestablished contact with Cavanaugh, he reported that he had failed to attend Aftercare because
he was struggling with his relationship with Martha Rumble. Id. at 33; Ex. 9 at 1.
44.

Cavanaugh called Donahue on November 23, 2009, to check in and report his

progress. Ex. 10 at 2. He described feeling better about his life, but was still struggling letting
go of his relationship with Rumble. Id. The next day Cavanaugh went to Donahue’s office and
reported that he was suffering from a spiraling depression. Id. at 1. Cavanaugh explained that
he was experiencing nightmares and night sweats and that he had “extreme difficulty” getting
up in the morning. Id.
45.

On December 3, 2009, Cavanaugh went to Donahue’s office for a scheduled

meeting. Ex. 11 at 1. He was disheveled and stated that he had relapsed on cocaine both at the
beginning and end of November. Id. He had also relapsed on alcohol. Id. Cavanaugh reported
that his relapse was the result of “extreme depression” related to the loss of his relationship with
Martha Rumble and the legal problems stemming from that relationship. Id. at 1-2. Cavanaugh
also cited his continuing “financial stressors” as contributing to his relapse. Id. at 2. Donahue
arranged for Cavanaugh to come to the Bedford VA to meet with a counselor and see a doctor.
Id.
46.

Due to Cavanaugh’s repeated relapses, Donahue gave him her husband’s work

cell phone number. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:62; 4:34-35. As noted above, her husband is
also a counselor at the Bedford VA. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:4. Cavanaugh was instructed to
call that number any time he needed assistance outside of normal working hours and Cavanaugh
did call Donahue on several occasions. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:35.

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c)
47.

January 2010 Relapse

On January 4, 2010, Cavanaugh called Donahue and reported that he had again

relapsed on cocaine and that he felt as though he was “having a heart attack.” Ex. 12 at 1.
Donahue directed him to call 911 so that he could be transported to a hospital. Id.; Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:36-37.
d)
48.

Cavanaugh Recommits to His Sobriety

After being admitted to Beverley Hospital following his relapse, Cavanaugh again

contacted Donahue about intensifying his treatment at the VA. Ex. 12 at 1. Donahue made
arrangements for him to be transferred from Beverley Hospital into the IDTP again. Ex. 15 at 1.
Donahue also arranged his admission into the Rogers House, the Bedford VA’s temporary home
for veterans in need of more structured treatment. Ex. 14 at 2. Cavanaugh was admitted into
IDTP on January 12, 2010. Ex. 15 at 1.
49.

At this point, Cavanaugh recommitted to his sobriety. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr.

2:49. Cavanaugh completed IDTP and continued in addiction treatment at the Brockton VA
until June 2010. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:182-83; Ex. 16 at 1-2. He did not have any
regular contact with Donahue during this time period. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:35.
2.

Cavanaugh and Donahue’s Relationship After June 2010
a)

50.

Cavanaugh Returns to the Aftercare Program

On June 14, 2010, Cavanaugh was transferred to the Crescent House, the

residential facility for addicts that is run by the Bedford VA. Ex. 16 at 1-2. Don Donahue,
Renee Donahue’s husband, was assigned to be Cavanaugh’s counselor at Crescent House. Id. at
3. Dr. Diaz was the psychologist at Crescent House. Id. at 1; Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:32.

14

51.

Thereafter, Cavanaugh was admitted into the Aftercare program for the second

time. Ex. 16 at 1-2. Donahue was once again assigned to be Cavanaugh’s rehabilitation
technician. Id. at 3. While in Aftercare, Cavanaugh was to receive treatment from both the
Crescent House staff and from VA psychiatrist Dr. Corman. Id. Other members of his support
team included William Gilbert, a rehabilitation technician, Gary Grossi, a Registered Nurse,
Rachel Latta, a psychologist, Molly Norton, a Vocational rehabilitation technician, Andrea
Valin, a rehabilitation technician and Pamela Joy Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Ex. 16 at 2; Ex. 17; at 2; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:44. At that time, Donahue ran group
therapy sessions in which Cavanaugh participated. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:41.
52.

As of July 2010, Cavanaugh was maintaining his sobriety while living at Crescent

House and had passed every urinalysis test, which was a condition of his residence. Cavanaugh
Testimony, Tr. 2:4, 53, 63, 183; see Dalton Testimony, Tr. 1:93.
b)
53.

Cavanaugh and Donahue’s Relationship Develops

It was around this time that Cavanaugh and Donahue’s relationship grew closer.

Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:11. Donahue was concerned about Cavanaugh’s wellbeing. In her
experience, addicts are most susceptible to relapse on nights and weekends and so Donahue
decided to give Cavanaugh her personal cell phone number to give him an outlet if he thought
he was close to relapsing. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:51. This was not unusual behavior for
Donahue, who had given her personal cell phone number to other veterans as well. Id. at 62-63.
54.

In her previous job, Donahue had always been on call, so she did not think that

telephone calls outside of office hours were inappropriate. Id. She never fully discussed
professional boundaries with Cavanaugh. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:15, 17, 27, 36.

15

55.

On July 16, 2010, Cavanaugh sent Donahue a handwritten note. Ex. 19. The note

expressed gratitude to Donahue for her help in finding Cavanaugh treatment for his addiction.
Id. He described her as being his “teacher, mentor, my anchor at times, councilor friend and
now you are family.” Id. at 2. Cavanaugh’s letter was signed, “I love you with all my heart.”
Id. At that time, Cavanaugh also gave Donahue a book and some music, which she kept on her
bookcase in her office, but returned to Cavanaugh when he asked for them back. Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:46, 50-51.
56.

In retrospect, Donahue admits that a boundary was crossed when she accepted the

letter from Cavanaugh. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:37-38. Donahue, however, continued her
friendship with Cavanaugh, id., although she felt uncomfortable about the way that Cavanaugh
ended the letter. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:47-48.
57.

On July 20, 2010, Donahue worked on an Aftercare treatment plan with

Cavanaugh. Ex. 17 at 1-2. Rehabilitation technicians create treatment plans by listening to the
veteran and talking to them about their goals. It is a collaborative effort, overseen by the
licensed professionals at the VA. Id. at 2. Cavanaugh’s plan included attending weekly
AA/NA meetings, developing a drug free lifestyle, and keeping in contact with Donahue to
update her on his progress. Id. at 1-2.
58.

Donahue thought that Cavanaugh was nice and that they were friends. Donahue

Testimony, Tr. 3:51. They often communicated by cell phone and Donahue sent Cavanaugh
messages and written meditations relating to maintaining sobriety. Id. They also frequently
exchanged emails on their VA email accounts. Id.; Ex. 45-47; 49-53. Cavanaugh used an
official VA email account due to his work in the CWT program. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr.
2:34; Ex. 51-53. Donahue began to think of Cavanaugh as more of a coworker and a friend and

16

she admits that this blurred their relationship and ultimately interfered with her ability to do her
job. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:54.
59.

During these frequent conversations, Cavanaugh talked about his problems and

experiences with Donahue, including his relationships with women. Donahue Testimony, Tr.
4:29-30; see Ex. 19. He talked about his family, and, in particular about his son, who was in the
Marines. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:64. Donahue likewise told Cavanaugh about experiences
and problems in her family life. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:14-15. For example, Donahue
asked Cavanaugh to help her with a weight loss plan, after she learned that another
rehabilitation technician had been successful in losing weight with his advice.

Donahue

Testimony, Tr. 3:55-56.
60.

After asking Dr. Diaz for permission to do so, Donahue went to Cavanaugh’s

room at Crescent House at his invitation because he told her that he wanted her to see the
decorating that he had done. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:55. Donahue took her grandson with
her on this visit and Donahue’s husband was at the facility that day as well. Id.; Cavanaugh
Testimony, Tr. 2:12. While visiting his room, Donahue told Cavanaugh that a picture of him as
a young man was a “really good picture of you.” Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:55-56. Cavanaugh
was surprised that Donahue would comment on his looks and felt that this comment signaled
Donahue’s attraction to him. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:12-13. Cavanaugh cites this incident
as the moment when their relationship began to develop romantically. Id.
61.

Whether romantically or not, Donahue and Cavanaugh’s relationship did continue

to develop. Donahue occasionally walked on the VA grounds with Cavanaugh; for example,
one time Cavanaugh wanted to show her the VA construction site where his CWT program was
working. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:71-72. They also sat together at the VA picnic tables or at

17

the gazebo. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:14. On other occasions, Cavanaugh would walk
Donahue to her car in a VA parking lot. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:76-77, 80 & 4:43. During
these meetings other people were nearby and Donahue and Cavanaugh remained in plain view.
Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:80. Cavanaugh acknowledges that their interactions while walking
the grounds were typical of “people who care about each other” and that they were always
“appropriate.” Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:14. However, Cavanaugh did not believe that this
behavior was indicative of a counselor and patient relationship. Id.
62.

Donahue also accepted at least one massage from Cavanaugh around this time.

Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:16; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:79. Cavanaugh started massaging
her neck at an event in a VA parking lot and that she did not stop him. Id. Donahue and her
husband were going to see a baseball game and a number of other men from the Crescent House
were present in the parking lot. Id. Although Don Donahue was there, Donahue is not sure if
her husband noticed the massage. Id. This type of contact was confusing to Donahue. Id. at
77-78.

She felt uncomfortable and self-conscious that Cavanaugh was massaging her,

especially in front of so many people from the Crescent House. Id. Donahue acknowledges
that she encouraged him to continue. Id. Cavanaugh confirms that Donahue was often tense
and that when he massaged her he felt that it was partly therapeutic, but Cavanaugh also felt that
they were developing a physical intimacy. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:16-17.
63.

Donahue and Cavanaugh’s frequent cell phone communications increased when

Cavanaugh’s self-described “foster son,” Tyler, died from an overdose, on September 7, 2010.
Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:69-70.
64.

Although the timing is somewhat unclear, Donahue admits that Cavanaugh at

some point made a pass at her in her office. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:78. Donahue admits

18

that Cavanaugh kissed her, but says that she did not respond to his advances. Id.; Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 4:45. Nor did she report the incident. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:46.
65.

However, it was around this time Donahue started to become concerned about

Cavanaugh’s feelings for her and tried to pull back from the friendship. Donahue Testimony,
Tr. 3:59. Donahue realized that their relationship had become inappropriate and that their
relationship could be characterized as an emotional affair. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:47. At
this point, Donahue tried not to speak with Cavanaugh on her cell phone and tried to limit her
contact with him. Id. at 68. Donahue still did not discuss these issues with the VA staff or
formally discuss professional boundaries with Cavanaugh. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:36.
66.

Despite Donahue’s efforts to limit contact, Cavanaugh continued to pursue the

relationship. French Testimony, Tr. 4:83-87; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:68. For example,
Cavanaugh regularly brought Donahue an early morning cup of coffee at her office. Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:68. In response, Donahue began to arrive late to work to avoid Cavanaugh.
Id. at 68-69. On several occasions, Donahue also had fellow workers accompany her to her car
so that she would not be joined by Cavanaugh. Id. at 78.
67.

Another rehabilitation technician, Herb French, whose office was next door to

Donahue’s and who shared work breaks with Donahue, remembered seeing Cavanaugh walk
past his office in the mornings with coffee for Donahue. French Testimony, Tr. 4:85. French
also noted that Cavanaugh would regularly show up at the gazebo on the Bedford VA grounds
to talk to Donahue when she took her smoke breaks. Id. at 82. French warned Donahue about
Cavanaugh, saying that he felt disturbed by how frequently Cavanaugh came out to see
Donahue at the gazebo on the VA grounds, and that he thought that Cavanaugh was pushing

19

boundaries with Donahue and “stalking” Donahue. Id. at 83. Donahue, however, told French
that she could handle the situation. Id. at 96.
68.

At a certain point, Cavanaugh also felt that the relationship had become unhealthy

for him and attempted to distance himself from Donahue. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:39-40.
Cavanaugh felt guilty and confused about their relationship and wanted to “move forward.” Id.
at 40. At first, Cavanaugh had regarded their relationship as a supportive friendship, but
admitted that at some point he felt that he was falling in love with Donahue. Id. Still,
Cavanaugh said that he realized that the relationship was not going anywhere. Id. at 41.
Cavanaugh felt that Donahue had not been looking out for his welfare by allowing their
relationship to develop the way that it had.

Id. at 41-42.

Nevertheless, Cavanaugh and

Donahue remained in at least sporadic contact. Id. at 51; see e.g., Donahue Testimony, Tr.
3:69-70.
69.

In late September 2010, Donahue had become so uncomfortable that she

concluded that her friendship with Cavanaugh had blurred her ability to do her job of
counseling him and that she was no longer effective in her role as his drug rehabilitation
counselor.

Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:59-60.

She asked Cavanaugh to find another

rehabilitation technician. Id. at 60.
70.

Cavanaugh believed that it was around this time – September 2010 – that Don

Donahue discovered the full extent of Cavanaugh and Donahue’s relationship. Cavanaugh
Testimony, Tr. 2:44.
71.

In late October 2010, one of the veterans living at Crescent House died of a drug

overdose. Ex. 22 at 1-2; Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:44. Donahue’s husband, Don Donahue,
was called to Crescent House and she accompanied him. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:57-58. A

20

group of veterans were standing in the parking lot when the Donahues arrived. Id. at 58; Dalton
Testimony, Tr. 1:86-87. Don Donahue was upset with the loss of the veteran and told the other
residents waiting in the parking lot, including Cavanaugh, that if they did not like it at Crescent
House, they should leave. Dalton Testimony, Tr. 1:87. Cavanaugh believed that this was really
directed at him and that Don Donahue was angry with Cavanaugh because of Cavanaugh’s
relationship with Donahue.

Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:44.

Cavanaugh reacted in a

confrontational and hostile way. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:58. At that point, Cavanaugh did
not feel safe at Crescent House any longer. Id.; Ex. 22 at 2.
72.

Donahue told Dalton, another veteran living at Crescent House who was standing

nearby during the altercation, that she believed that Cavanaugh was attacking her husband
because she had pulled away from her relationship with Cavanaugh. Donahue Testimony, Tr.
3:59. Donahue also told Dalton that she thought that her husband was angry about Cavanaugh
and Donahue’s relationship. Dalton Testimony, Tr. 1:92. This incident confirmed for Donahue
that she no longer wanted to be Cavanaugh’s rehabilitation technician. Donahue Testimony, Tr.
3:60.
73.

Prior to this incident in the parking lot of the Crescent House, Cavanaugh had told

Dalton that Donohue and Cavanaugh were having a sexual relationship. Dalton Testimony, Tr.
1:89. Dalton found Cavanaugh’s revelation of a sexual relationship with Donahue “shocking,”
but he did not tell anyone about Cavanaugh’s revelation because Dalton thought it was
“nobody’s business.” Id. at 90, 93. When Donahue told Dalton that her husband was angry
about Cavanaugh and Donahue’s relationship, Dalton assumed “based on what [Cavanaugh
had] said” that Donahue meant that her husband was upset about a sexual relationship. Id. at
92. Donahue testified, however, that she only meant to communicate that Donahue had told her

21

husband about how strained her relationship had become with Cavanaugh and her husband was
upset about the situation. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:59-60.
74.

Soon after this altercation, Donahue realized that she had done something wrong

in pretending that Cavanaugh’s friendship with her was not a problem and in telling no one at
work about the situation. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:74-75.
75.

Immediately after the incident at the Crescent House, Cavanaugh made plans to

move into his own apartment. Ex. 22 at 2. Donahue served as a reference for Cavanaugh to
help him get his own apartment. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:71-72; Ex. 49. On November 5,
2010, Cavanaugh emailed Donahue thanking her for her help getting with the apartment. Ex.
49. He finished the email saying “I love you and thanks.” Id.
76.

When Cavanaugh moved out of the Crescent House he was maintaining his

sobriety. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:63. When Cavanaugh moved, Donahue attempted to
terminate her relationship with Cavanaugh and she stopped returning his calls.

Donahue

Testimony, Tr. 3:73; Ex. 51.
77.

In mid-November, Donahue and her husband went out of town for a family

reunion. Cavanaugh emailed her on November 16, 2010, expressing his anger that she left town
and did not tell him. Ex. 50. He was also upset that she had not called him for several days. Id.
78.

Cavanaugh emailed her again on November 18, 2010. Ex. 51. He expressed

frustration with the treatment he was receiving at the VA and at Donahue for ignoring him. Id.
He alluded to the October incident between him and Don Donahue, and expressed anger at Don
Donahue for confronting him. Id.
79.

Although Donahue was attempting to distance herself from Cavanaugh, after

Cavanaugh moved out of the Crescent House and after Donahue had received the angry emails,

22

she made another attempt to reach out the Cavanaugh and repair the relationship. Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:77. In late November, at the end of the work day, Donahue met Cavanaugh in
the parking lot and showed him her new car. Id. They spoke briefly, but Donahue was careful
to have co-workers nearby. Id.
80.

In December, 2010, after moving out of the Crescent House, but while still in the

Aftercare program, Cavanaugh relapsed on cocaine and subsequently left the VA program.
Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:52. After relapsing at the end of 2010, Cavanaugh continued using
cocaine throughout 2011 and 2012. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2.
81.

In January 2011, Cavanaugh reported to Dr. Diaz that he and Donahue had had an

affair. Dr Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:46. When Cavanaugh showed up at Dr. Diaz’s office and said
that he needed to speak with her, he appeared to be in emotional distress. Id. Dr. Diaz sat down
with him and Cavanaugh informed her that he felt “dirty and dishonest” about a sexual affair
with Donahue and that he had been ignoring Donahue’s calls. Id. at 49. Cavanaugh, however,
did not tell Dr. Diaz that the affair had affected his recovery or that he had relapsed. Id. at 49.
Dr. Diaz was concerned about getting him the emotional support he needed regardless and she
suggested that he speak with someone. Id. at 50-51.
82.

Following a report from Dr. Diaz after Cavanaugh’s January 2011 visit,

Cavanaugh was transferred to Dr. Krebs. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:59-60. Cavanaugh was
depressed and anxious in his sessions with Dr. Krebs and Cavanaugh attributed his relapse and
emotional state to his affair with Donahue. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:208. Cavanaugh,
however, did not discuss the details of the affair with Dr. Krebs and told Dr. Krebs that he was
“ambivalent” about the relationship. Id. at 209. Cavanaugh also discussed the death of his
“foster son,” Tyler, his relationship with Martha Rumble and his recent bankruptcy. Id. at 211.

23

Dr. Krebs recalls that Cavanaugh was extremely upset about the bankruptcy and that he
described his relationship with Rumble as “unhealthy.” Id. at 211-12.
83.

In mid- 2013, Cavanaugh telephoned Dr. Krebs and told him that he was using

cocaine. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:218. Dr. Krebs told Cavanaugh that he would see
Cavanaugh when he was sober but not before. Id. Dr. Krebs has not heard from Cavanaugh
since that telephone call. Id.
84.

Cavanaugh sought in-patient rehabilitation treatment at the White River Junction

VA in spring 2014. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 1:139-40; Ex. 62. He left two weeks later in an
“irregular discharge” before the end of his treatment program, without speaking to his
caregivers. Id. When his therapist was able to reach him by phone Cavanaugh reported he was
doing well and attending AA meetings, but that he felt that he had to leave the program due to
the “toxicity” of some of the other residents and Cavanaugh believed that he had gotten
everything out of the program that he could. Ex. 62.
85.

Cavanaugh now lives with his current girlfriend and is working towards recovery

but admits that he has been relapsing. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:176; Ex. 62.
IV.

CONCLUSIONS OF LAW
In light of the evidence presented to the Court, the Court makes the following

conclusions of law:

24

A.
86.

Cavanaugh has not Proved His Malpractice Claim
Cavanaugh alleges that Donahue breached her professional duty of care when she

allegedly used her position as a rehabilitation technician at the Bedford VA to initiate a sexual
relationship with him. D. 1.
87.

Under Massachusetts law, to succeed on his professional malpractice claim,

Cavanaugh has the burden of proving by a preponderance of the evidence: (1) that Donahue
owed Cavanaugh a duty of care; (2) the applicable standard of care; (3) that Donahue breached
her duty of care; and (4) the breach was the proximate cause of Cavanaugh’s injury. Poyser v.
United States, 602 F. Supp. 436, 438 (D. Mass. 1984); McMurdo v. Getter, 298 Mass. 363, 367
(1937); Pages-Ramirez v. Ramirez-Gonzalez, 605 F.3d 109, 113 (1st Cir. 2010).
1.
88.

Donahue did not Owe Cavanaugh a Professional Duty of Care

To show that Donahue owed Cavanaugh a duty of care, Cavanaugh must first

prove that a rehabilitation technician is a “professional” under Massachusetts law. McMurdo,
298 Mass. at 367-68; Strategic Energy LLC v. Western Mass. Electric Co., 529 F. Supp. 2d 226,
237 (2008) (rejecting expansion of the tort of professional negligence to electrical distributors
where no cases cited recognizing any special duty owed by such actors).
89.

“Professions” are generally “conceived in terms of the learned professions.” 51

Mass. Prac., Professional Malpractice § 18.4 (internal quotations omitted). “Traditionally, the
learned professions were theology, law and medicine; but some other occupations have climbed,
and still others may climb, to the professional plane.” McMurdo, 298 Mass. at 367.
90.

The Supreme Judicial Court has found that the term professional “means

something more than mere proficiency in the performance of a task and implies intellectual skill”
and that a “professional service” is a service that “aris[es] out of a vocation, calling, occupation,

25

or employment involving specialized knowledge, labor, or skill, and the labor or skill involved is
predominantly mental or intellectual . . . . ” Roe v. Federal Insurance Co., 412 Mass. 43, 48
(1992).
91.

On the present record, a rehabilitation technician is an unlicensed position that

requires no advanced degrees or training. As noted above, Donahue’s highest completed level of
education is high school. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:11. Donahue’s only required training for
her position of rehabilitation technician consisted of following experienced rehabilitation
technicians, watching group sessions, sitting in on roundtables, and limited computer-based
trainings on conflicts, diversity, fire safety, and the like. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:88-89; 4:1213. Donahue is also not licensed as a medical professional or other professional and is classified
as a GS-7 employee. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:4; French Testimony, Tr. 4:80; Ex. 3 at 1. She
reports to professional level, highly skilled employees, but she is not highly skilled. Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:10-11. Although Donahue does have access to the veteran’s medical files, she
does not make diagnoses and has no training in interpreting medical records.

Donahue

Testimony, Tr. 4:2-3; 5-6. As a former addict herself, Donahue’s primary skill is being able to
relate to and support the veterans. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:98-99.
92.

Accordingly, the Court concludes that the responsibilities of rehabilitation

technicians fall outside the definition of “professional” as defined by Massachusetts law,
McMurdo, 298 Mass. at 367, and, therefore, Cavanaugh has not shown that Donahue owed
Cavanaugh a professional duty of care under Massachusetts law.
2.
93.

Cavanaugh has not Proved the Applicable Standard of Care

Even assuming that Cavanaugh had proved that Donahue was a professional and

owed Cavanaugh a duty of care, Cavanaugh has not proved the applicable standard of care. “The

26

proper standard is whether the . . . practitioner, has exercised the degree of care and skill of the
average qualified practitioner, taking into account the advances in the profession.” Palandjian v.
Foster, 446 Mass. 100, 104 (2006).
94.

The testimony proffered by Cavanaugh as to the professional standard of care was

the testimony of Dr. Diaz and Dr. Krebs. This testimony, however, was restricted to the standard
of care for licensed psychologists and did not concern the standard of care for rehabilitation
technicians like Donahue. Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:27-30; Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:218-19.
Dr. Diaz and Dr. Krebs provided no evidence that a rehabilitation technician was a professional
or any knowledge regarding any standard of care applicable to such an occupation. Id.
95.

For example, Dr. Diaz testified that she did not know if rehabilitation technicians

have a code of ethics or how they define their duties. Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:30. Dr. Diaz
repeatedly testified that she had no knowledge of “other professions” codes of ethics. Id. at 29.
Dr. Krebs also declined to comment on the standard of care applied to other professions, stating
that he was not familiar with the IDTP or Aftercare programs, he was not aware if rehabilitation
technicians had access to patient medical records and that he could not speak to other
professional standards of care. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:197-98, 218-19.
96.

Accordingly, the Court finds that Cavanaugh has not proved the applicable

standard of care applied to rehabilitation technicians.
3.
97.

Cavanaugh has not Proved Breach

Donahue admits that she overstepped boundaries with Cavanaugh because the line

between counselor and addict became blurred as their relationship developed. Id. Donahue
further admits that her relationship with Cavanaugh developed into, at least, an emotional affair.
Id.

27

98.

The Court acknowledges that a lot of what occurred between Donohue and

Cavanaugh is troubling.

Nevertheless, the Court does not conclude, on this record, by a

preponderance of the evidence that a sexual affair occurred (even as Cavanaugh testified about
having oral sex with Donahue on several occasions in a car and intercourse on one occasion in a
secluded area, Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:18-22). Donahue did admit to breaching certain
professional boundaries, but continues to deny a sexual affair with Cavanaugh.

Donahue

Testimony, Tr. 3 & 4. Moreover, although Dalton testified that Cavanaugh had told him in the
“early fall” of 2010 that Cavanaugh and Donahue were having a sexual relationship, Dalton
Testimony, Tr. 1:89, the only corroboration of the sexual relationship is Cavanaugh’s own self
reports. Cavanaugh and Donahue spent time together on the grounds of the Bedford VA,
however, during these meetings other people were always nearby, including Donahue’s husband,
who worked at the facility, and Donahue and Cavanaugh remained in plain view. Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:80. Despite appearing in public regularly, no one at the Bedford VA reported
witnessing Cavanaugh and Donahue interacting in a way that suggested their relationship had
moved beyond a friendship.
99.

However, even assuming that Donahue and Cavanaugh’s friendship grew into a

sexual relationship, it is not clear that a consensual sexual relationship would violate a
professional standard of care under these circumstances.
100. First, Cavanaugh himself considered the relationship consensual. See Cavanaugh
Testimony, Tr. 2:12-13. Even when reporting the affair to Dr. Diaz and Dr. Krebs, Cavanaugh
did not suggest that the affair was coerced.

Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:46-50; Dr. Krebs

Testimony, Tr. 2:209. In fact, Cavanaugh seem to have actively pursued the relationship with
Donahue. Cavanaugh brought Donahue coffee in the morning, would join her in the gazebo on

28

her smoke breaks and would stay after group sessions to talk with her or to walk her to her car.
Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:14; Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:68. Cavanaugh initiated at least one
massage with Donahue and Cavanaugh admits that, on some level, he intended to develop a
physical intimacy with Donahue. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:16-17. Furthermore, Cavanaugh
testified that he thought that he was falling in love with Donahue. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr.
2:40. Finally, when Cavanaugh reported to Dr. Krebs that he had had an affair with Donahue,
the concern he expressed to Dr. Krebs about Donahue was how the relationship ended and not
about any other aspects of the relationship. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:216-17.
101.

Second, Donahue was not Cavanaugh’s primary source of care in the VA’s

treatment program. Indeed, while in the Aftercare program, Cavanaugh received treatment from
a large team, which included a number of licensed medical professionals. Ex. 16 at 1-2;
Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:44. As noted above, members of Cavanaugh’s support team at the
time the affair allegedly occurred included VA psychiatrist Dr. Corman, William Gilbert, a
rehabilitation technician, Gary Grossi, a Registered Nurse, Rachel Latta, a Psychologist, Molly
Norton, a Vocational rehabilitation technician, Andrea Valin, a rehabilitation technician and
Pamela Joy Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Ex. 16 at 2; Ex. 17; at 2; Donahue
Testimony, Tr. 3:44. Donahue’s role was simply to relate to the veterans as a former addict
who could understand and support them in their journey to sobriety.

Id.; Ex. 3; French

Testimony, Tr. 4:90-91.
102. Under these circumstances, the Court is not prepared to find that a breach of any
duty by Donahue, even if any duty of car had been established. Accordingly, the Court finds that
Cavanaugh has not proved breach.
4.

Cavanaugh has not Proved Causation

29

103. Finally, even if Cavanaugh had shown that Donahue breach her duty of care, the
Court cannot find by a preponderance of the evidence that the breach was the proximate cause of
Cavanaugh’s injury.
104. Failing to show causation is particularly evident here, where, as the record above
reflects, a combination of traumatic life events contributed to Cavanaugh’s relapse in December
2010. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:67; Ex. 23; Ex. 24 at 2-3, 8-9. During the relevant time
period in this case, between July and December 2010, Cavanaugh was going through a divorce
from his second wife, had declared bankruptcy, broke up with his girlfriend, Martha Rumble,
was dealing with the suicide of a fellow veteran at Crescent House in October 2010 and was
dealing with the overdose death of the young man whom he considered his foster son in
September 2010. Id. Cavanaugh reported that these transitions and losses made him feel
“irritable, ‘up and down,’ jumpy, and fidgety lately, as wells as ‘worn out’/emotionally drained.”
Ex. 27 at 2-3.
105. The Court notes that Cavanaugh did not attribute his mental condition, in whole
or in part, to his relationship with Donahue until after he had left the VA rehab program in
January 2011. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:205; Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:46. When Cavanaugh
did report a sexual relationship to Dr. Diaz and Dr. Krebs in January 2011, Dr. Krebs testified
that Cavanaugh seemed “ambivalent” about the relationship with Donahue and upset primarily
about the way the relationship ended. Dr. Krebs Testimony, Tr. 2:209. However, Cavanaugh
also discussed the death of his “foster son,” Tyler, his relationship with Martha Rumble and his
recent bankruptcy.

Id.

Dr. Krebs recalls that Cavanaugh was extremely upset about the

bankruptcy and that he described his relationship with Rumble as “unhealthy.” Id.

30

106. In light of the totality of circumstances, the Court cannot conclude that the alleged
breach of any alleged duty of care was the proximate cause of Cavanaugh’s injury. Accordingly,
the Court finds that Cavanaugh has not proved his professional malpractice claim.
B.

Cavanaugh has not Proved His Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
Claim

107. To satisfy his burden, Cavanaugh must prove by a preponderance of the evidence
that Donahue: (1) intended to cause, or should have known that her conduct would cause,
emotional distress; (2) that Donahue’s conduct was extreme and outrageous; (3) that Donahue’s
conduct caused Cavanaugh’s distress; and (4) that Cavanaugh suffered severe distress. Sena v.
Commonwealth, 417 Mass. 250, 263 (1994), citing Agis v. Howard Johnson Co., 371 Mass. 140,
144-45 (1976), and Foley v. Polaroid Corp., 400 Mass. 82, 99 (1987).
108. Cavanaugh must prove that the conduct complained of was so outrageous in
character, and so extreme in degree, as to go beyond all possible bounds of decency, and to be
regarded as utterly intolerable in a civilized community. Foley, 400 Mass. at 99.

The Court

notes that this is a very high standard. Here, “liability cannot be predicated upon mere insults,
indignities, threats, annoyances, petty oppressions, or other trivialities, nor even is it enough that
the defendant has acted with an intent which is tortious or even criminal, or that he has intended
to inflict emotional distress, or even that his conduct has been characterized by malice, or a
degree of aggravation which would entitle the plaintiff to punitive damages for another tort.”
Foley, 400 Mass. at 99 (quoting Restatement (Second) of Torts § 46, comment d (1965))
(internal quotation marks omitted).
1.

Cavanaugh has not Proved that Donahue Should Have Known her
Conduct Would Cause Emotional Distress

31

109. It is not clear from the record that Donahue should have known, let alone
intended, that her relationship with Cavanaugh would have caused him distress. As discussed in
some detail above, Donahue is not a medical professional and had not received robust training on
appropriate professional boundaries or the perils of transference. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:75.
110. Although Donahue testified that she had some concept of the term “professional
boundaries,” Donahue admits that when she began working with Cavanaugh that she did not
think much about her behavior or the kind of relationships that could affect the veteran’s
treatments.

Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:12-14.

Donahue communicated regularly with

Cavanaugh through VA-issued work email accounts and Cavanaugh had told Donahue that he
had worked in mental health care. Donahue Testimony, Tr. 4:26, 53. As a result, Donahue
admits that she quickly began to think of Cavanaugh as her friend and peer. Id. at 6, 51.
111. Although Donahue did discuss personal relationships with Cavanaugh and was
aware of some of Cavanaugh’s issues with women, including his tumultuous relationship with
Martha Rumble, Donahue was unprepared for how Cavanaugh might respond to her support of
him as his rehabilitation technician.

Donahue Testimony, Tr. 3:6-7; 4:29-31.

Without

appropriate training in transference, Donahue did not understand the risks inherent in her candid
relationship with Cavanaugh.

Id.

As Dr. Diaz explained, when people reveal personal

information in a therapeutic setting and they receive acceptance, perhaps for the first time, it is
very common for feelings of intimacy to develop. Dr. Diaz Testimony, Tr. 1:41. Without
training in how to deal with these feelings of transference, Donahue did not fully understand the
risks associated with her behavior.
112. Cavanaugh has not shown that Donahue intended to cause Cavanaugh distress nor
has Cavanaugh proved that Donahue had the level of training or knowledge necessary to show

32

that she knew or should have known that her behavior would cause him distress. Accordingly,
the Court finds that Cavanaugh has failed to prove that Donahue intended to cause, or knew she
would cause, emotional distress.
2.

Cavanaugh has not Proved that Donahue’s Conduct was Extreme or
Outrageous

113. Cavanaugh has not proven by a preponderance of the evidence that Donahue’s
actions were extreme or outrageous. Even if the Court assumes that Donahue had a sexual
relationship with Cavanaugh, as noted above, there is no evidence that Donahue coerced or
intimidated Cavanaugh. Nor is there any evidence that Donahue was in a position to enforce her
will upon Cavanaugh. There is no evidence that Donahue had control over his residence at the
Crescent House, his work assignments, his income, his lifestyle, or any factors that could be
utilized for coercion and control. Cavanaugh attended her group sessions with a number of other
addicted veterans, but a number of other VA personnel were assigned to provide him care.
114. Cavanaugh pursued the relationship with Donahue, bringing her coffees, meeting
her at her office and calling and emailing her frequently.

Donahue was not a medical

professional and was not appropriately instructed on setting professional boundaries. She was
hired largely due to her status as a former addict who could relate to the veterans and help them
through moments of crisis. Under these circumstances, the Court cannot conclude that the
relationship between the two was beyond all possible bounds of decency. Foley, 400 Mass. at
99.

Accordingly, the Court concludes that the evidence was presented was insufficient to

warrant a finding that Donahue’s conduct toward Cavanaugh rose to the level of “extreme and
outrageous conduct” required for the tort of intentional infliction of emotional distress. See id.
3.

Cavanaugh has not Proved that Donahue Caused Cavanaugh’s Distress

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115. As noted above, the record demonstrates that during the relevant time period
Cavanaugh suffered a combination of traumatic life events, which contributed to Cavanaugh’s
relapse. Cavanaugh Testimony, Tr. 2:67; Ex. 23; Ex. 24 at 2-3, 8-9. The Court cannot conclude,
therefore, that Cavanaugh’s purported sexual relationship with Donahue was the cause of his
emotional distress and relapse.
116. Accordingly, the Court finds that Cavanaugh has not proved his intentional
infliction of emotional distress claim.
V.

CONCLUSION
After consideration of the evidence presented at trial and in light of the aforementioned

findings of fact and conclusions of law, this Court finds that judgment will enter in favor of the
Defendant. In light of this ruling, the Court DENIES the Defendant’s motion for judgment as a
matter of law as to Count I, which was reserved upon at the start of trial, D. 46, as moot.
So Ordered.
/s/ Denise J. Casper
United States District Judge

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