Sexual Harassment

Approximately 6 years ago my female licensure supervisor began having inappropriate contact with me by phone and physically while she was supervising me. This culminated in several situations which were clearly sexual. (ie. kissing, fondeling, nudity, etc.) This occurred over a one year period but then she began making intimidating references to harming my career if I didn't move in with her and take care of her. She would make reference to going "public" since she was near retirement and it wouldn't hurt her any. The sexual things stopped about 5 years ago but I have remained with her for fear of this hurting my career as I am new to the field of Social Work (6 years exp.) To the outside world we appear to be "friendly roommates" but everyone suspects something is "off" as I have been told. She has maintained the power in the situation through intimidation and by financially strapping me with expenses I can't hope to get out of. I'm ready to be done with this. Is there anything I can do to make her pay for the wrong she has done?

[msgny]

Frankly it may be hard to sue for that; but you should get out ASAP. Nobody should have that control over you and it is very unlikely she could harm your career without having serious problems herself. Blackmail is a crime by the way.