The Examining Board of Psychology, operating under the Washington State Department of Health, has filed a formal statement of charges against a licensed state psychologist, alleging unprofessional conduct. The document, issued on March 18, 2026, asserts that the professional, who has held an active Washington license since July 15, 1992, neglected to properly evaluate a patient for suicide risk and failed to keep required written supervision agreements with subordinate staff.
The core of the complaint centers on the care provided to an individual identified in the state records as "Client A." The board states that the psychologist began counseling the client around August 4, 2017. During the initial intake process, the client reportedly indicated they were experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The regulatory body alleges that despite this disclosure, the psychologist did not conduct a specific suicide risk assessment nor develop a safety plan for the client at the time of intake or during the subsequent course of treatment.
Beyond the patient care issues, the Department of Health has raised administrative concerns regarding the psychologist’s oversight of junior practitioners. The charges indicate that between 2016 and 2020, the professional failed to maintain mandatory written supervision agreements with one or more certified counselors or advisers working under his direction. State regulations require such written contracts to detail expectations regarding confidentiality, recordkeeping, and professional duties.
The Examining Board of Psychology contends that these actions constitute unprofessional conduct in violation of the Revised Code of Washington. Specifically, the board points to provisions concerning negligence or incompetence that result in patient injury or create an unreasonable risk of harm, as well as failures to exercise appropriate supervision.
This filing represents a formal stage in the administrative regulatory process, meaning the details outlined are currently allegations rather than established findings. The psychologist has been officially notified of the claims and has been granted the opportunity to present a defense. The board notes that if the professional does not respond or successfully defend against the charges, they may face professional discipline and sanctions under state law.