Arizona denied application of counselor Jeremy Ernst following disciplinary action in Ohio

June 1, 2011

On March 3, 2011, the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners denied the application of counselor applicant Jeremy Ernst, citing various statutes applicable to the practice of professional counseling in the state. 

According to the Board’s document, Ernst, who was previously licensed and employed as a counselor in Ohio, was terminated from his position with a behavioral health services provider and disciplined by the Ohio licensing board after an investigation resulting from a client’s complaint that Ernst “smoked marijuana while a licensed behavioral health professional.” 

A review of the Consent Agreement issued on Ernst by the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, Marriage & Family Therapist Board states that Ernst “smoked marijuana with a current client in a social setting.”

The Ohio board reprimanded Ernst and required him to acquired additional continuing education in the area of professional ethics. Ernst misrepresented his termination on an employment application, resulting in another involuntary termination and failed to disclose a third involuntary termination to the Arizona Board, as required. 

He also failed to disclose his addiction to marijuana and participation in NA meetings.

Source: Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners Adverse Action Tracking Form, April 2011.