A Montana shelter counselor is on leave after two women accused him of sexual assault during sessions; he denies the claims.

A counselor at Montana Rescue Mission in Billings is on paid leave after two women accused him of sexual assault during counseling sessions, according to a letter to the state’s attorney general. Nate Church, a clinical supervisor, denies the allegations, which include unwanted touching and attempted kissing, and has not been charged. One victim reported the incident to police in December 2023; a second alleged similar misconduct in summer 2024, though it’s unclear if she reported it. The shelter, which reopened in 2024 after renovations and serves about 100 people, is cooperating with law enforcement and the state’s licensure board. The mission also faces internal turmoil, including the termination of its executive director amid an ongoing investigation. The board says there were no prior complaints against Church.