Counselor admits to sex with client, state suspends license

February 28, 2013

The Washington State Department of Health has suspended the credentials of Scott Hale, an "agency affiliated counselor," based on "charges of sexual misconduct."

According to the statement of charges available on the DOH's website, Hale is alleged to have had sex with a patient three times while the patient was in Hale's care at a mental health care clinic in Burien.

The charges note that Hale admitted to the sexual intercourse to his direct supervisor, and that Hale's patient was being treated for "the effects of childhood sexual abuse and other mental health conditions." Hale is being charged with unprofessional conduct, and has 20 days to request a hearing. The DOH notes Hale cannot practice until these charges are resolved.

Source: "Federal Way counselor suspended on charges of sexual misconduct ," press release of the Washington State Department of Health, February 21, 2013.