On October 8, 2009, the Washington Department of Health (DoH) suspended registered counselor Mel Gaines for unprofessional conduct.
According to the state’s document, in December 2008, Gaines provided counseling services to a client with whom he entered into a sexual relationship. The client also had treatment with other counselors at the same facility where Gaines worked. Gaines continued to have a sexual relationship with the client after she discontinued treatment with him and after she left the facility.
In March 2009, Gaines was requested by a DoH to provide a written statement on the matter but failed to do so.
In August 2009, he was served by the DoH with a statement of charges and an opportunity to answer them. He failed to respond to the DoH’s communications.
He may not seek reinstatement of his license for five years.
