Norwegian psychologist discovered working in United States after license revocation in Norway

A Norwegian psychologist, who had his license revoked, was discovered to be working with patients at a clinic in the United States. Neither the clinic nor American health authorities were aware that the psychologist had faced repercussions due to two police investigations in Norway.

The Norwegian Health Authority announced it will examine the case and gather additional information. The agency’s director, Sjur Lehmann, noted that a police report could be pursued later, indicating the seriousness of the situation.

In 2021, when the psychologist lost his license in Norway, a warning was issued to 30 countries, including those in the EEA and Switzerland, to prevent unqualified personnel from seeking jobs abroad without informing host countries of past offenses. However, the U.S. is not part of this alert system and does not receive such notifications. Lehmann said the Norwegian authorities plan to inform their U.S. counterparts directly.

Through his attorney, the psychologist has not responded to inquiries related to his patient work in the U.S. He previously appealed the revocation of his license but lost the case. The clinic, where he worked in 2024, claimed they were unaware of any issues related to his American license and stated he left his position immediately when confronted about the allegations.

Earlier in January 2023, the psychologist was reported to the police for securing a job without proper authorization in Oslo. He confessed to wrongdoing and was fined 15,000 Norwegian kroner. Following the revelations by Nidaros and NRK, authorities may consider further legal action against him in Norway.