A Polish woman posing as a psychologist who treated postpartum patients in Żywiec has received a suspended sentence and financial penalties.
False Credentials Uncovered
Gazeta.pl first reported on the case in August 2024, after receiving an anonymous tip that Magdalena K., then 33, was working as a psychologist at a hospital in Żywiec without the required qualifications.
She presented herself as a clinical and psycho-oncology psychologist, claiming to have completed courses in sexology and psychosexology. Investigations revealed she only attended a one-year “Occupational Therapy” program between 2011-2012 and previously worked as a preschool caregiver.
Hospital Response and Investigation
Following inquiries from Gazeta.pl, the hospital terminated its collaboration with Magdalena K. in 2024 and filed a report with the prosecutor’s office. The hospital director, Małgorzata Świątkiewicz, explained they sought to expand support for postpartum women, but a contract with the National Health Fund (NFZ) didn’t mandate a psychologist.
Magdalena K. submitted a file labeled “Diploma” via email, but hospital staff couldn’t open it. Despite repeated requests for the document, she maintained she had already provided it, either electronically or in paper form.
Positive Assessments Despite Lack of Verification
Magdalena K. worked at the hospital three times a week, and neither patients nor staff filed any complaints. Świątkiewicz stated that everyone spoke positively of her competence, which led to a lack of initial suspicion.
Defendant’s Claims and Lack of Proof
In a July 2024 statement to Gazeta.pl, Magdalena K. asserted that her qualifications had been repeatedly verified in previous roles and that she possessed the necessary credentials. She claimed her role at the hospital involved supporting patients during hospitalization, not strict diagnosis.
Despite a direct request, she did not provide any documentation to verify her education.
Court Ruling and Penalties
In April 2026, the Regional Court in Żywiec issued a non-final verdict, finding Magdalena K. guilty of fraud. She received a 10-month prison sentence suspended for 2 years.
Additionally, she was ordered to pay a fine totaling 5,000 złoty and compensate the hospital for damages amounting to 63,200 złoty.
Separate Case of Another Unqualified Practitioner
A separate case involving Katarzyna O., who practiced at a clinic in Nowa Sól without psychological qualifications until March 2020, is also ongoing. An indictment has been filed with the District Court in Zielona Góra.
Katarzyna O. faces 46 charges related to causing financial harm and forging documents. Prosecutors report she did not admit guilt during the preparatory proceedings, but a court-ordered psychiatric evaluation confirmed her sanity.
