KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- The Tennessee Department of Health, in a consent order, claimed a Knoxville psychologist dragged his 11-year-old patient across a carpeted floor.

Now a friend of the child's family is speaking out, demanding answers for that doctor's behavior.

"He's a precious, gentle, loving child who's lost his innocence, his trust," said Sara Cawood, a friend of the victim's family.

Cawood said Dr. Lance Laurence is the reason that trust is gone.

The Department of Health, in a consent order, reported that the Knoxville psychologist grabbed the 11-year-old patient by the ankle and dragged him across carpeted floor, after the child refused to leave his office.

The disciplinary order states the 11-year-old cried throughout the entire therapy session and when he refused to leave, Dr. Laurence forcibly removed him.

The Department of Health reported the child suffered from carpet burns. Cawood said there's scarring.

Documents show Dr. Laurence is now required to undergo testing to see if he's fit to practice psychology, pay a fine as well as the cost of the investigation, and take a course to help with his actions.

The doctor's attorney, Jennifer Pearson Taylor, issued this statement: "Dr. Laurence is a well-respected member of the psychology profession and has been serving this community for 35 years. He had never received a complaint prior to this unfortunate incident, nor has he received one since. Dr. Laurence respects the privacy of all of his patients and will
uphold HIPAA protections, which prevent him from discussing any specifics of this isolated incident. Dr. Laurence can state that he cooperated fully while the matter was thoroughly investigated and resolved. He looks forward to continuing to serve this community for many
years to come."

Cawood said after all this, he shouldn't be practicing, and she hopes this 11-year-old will be able to live a somewhat normal life.

"To know that this child, who had problems to start with, has worse problems now from the trauma that this has created... and will probably have long-term issues... it breaks my heart," she said.

As for whether a criminal investigation is underway, a representative from the Knox County District Attorney's office said because Local 8 News called after hours, they didn't have access to all the information needed. They'll actively look into the case in the morning.

Cawood is a practicing therapist. She said when looking for a doctor, make sure the person is reputable. That's on the Department of Health website. The link is attached.