Psychologist practiced without authorization in Norway while employed in the U.S.

Authorities in Norway have reported that a psychologist has been practicing from a home office without the necessary authorization. Sjur Lehmann, director of the Norwegian Board of Health Supervision, confirmed that they have filed a police report regarding the matter. The psychologist allegedly worked remotely with patients in Norway while being employed by an American clinic, even after his license was suspended in 2020 following a conviction involving animal abuse.

In June 2020, the psychologist was arrested at St. Olav’s Hospital in Trondheim for admitting to three sexual offenses against dogs. Despite the suspension of his license, he sought employment as a psychologist at NAV (the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration) in early 2021, securing a position without disclosing his lack of authorization. He started this job in January 2022 and resigned upon discovery of his status after the Norwegian Health Personnel Appeals Board dismissed his complaints.

In 2024, the psychologist was listed as a child psychologist at the Washington Anxiety Center in Washington, D.C. He provided consultations without the clinic or U.S. authorities being aware of his previous legal issues in Norway. When confronted by staff about the allegations, he resigned immediately.

The Norwegian Board of Health Supervision has not encountered other cases of psychologists offering remote therapy after losing their licenses. Police prosecutor Nils Kristian Grønvik stated the investigation was closed due to insufficient evidence, highlighting that the offenses were not serious enough to warrant further action. The American authorities have been notified regarding the psychologist’s situation for potential follow-up on their end.