For immediate release: March 25, 2008  (08-040)

Contacts:
Tammy Kelley, Disciplinary Manager 360-236-4905
Jeff Smith, Communications Office 360-236-4072

OLYMPIA — A Snohomish County registered counselor has been suspended on charges of entering into a romantic and sexual relationship with a client.

Following an investigation, the Department of Health immediately suspended the counselor registration of Carli R. Brown, (RC00054801) due to charges of unprofessional conduct.

Brown was employed as a mental health technician at Haven House — a supervised transitional living program for homeless young adults with mental illness. The statement of charges say she entered into a romantic and sexual relationship with her client. Brown allegedly had sexual intercourse with her client at least three times.

Brown has 10 days to request a prompt hearing and 20 days to respond to the statement of charges. The documents related to this case are available by clicking on Provider Credential Search on the Department of Health home page (www.doh.wa.gov) or by calling 360-236-4700.

Consumers who believe a health care provider acted unprofessionally are encouraged to call Health Professions Quality Assurance, 260-236-4700, to report their complaint.

The Department of Health protects and promotes public health, safety and welfare in Washington by regulating the competency and quality of counselors. The program establishes, monitors, and enforces qualifications for licensing, consistent standards of practice, continuing competency mechanisms and discipline. Rules, policies, and procedures developed by the agency promote the delivery of quality health care to people in Washington.

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