NEWPORT BEACH : Psychologist Ordered to Suspend Practice

An administrative law judge has suspended the practice of a local psychologist accused of “gross negligence and unprofessional conduct,” according to state licensing officials.

Dr. Harvey Lacey, 59, is charged with engaging in a sexual relationship with a patient, disclosing private and privileged information about patients, and using marijuana and cocaine in the presence of patients, according to officials for the Psychology Board of California. “It’s a real blatant case,” said Thomas O’Connor, executive officer of the Psychology Board. “The acts he committed were repugnant acts, and we sought this order because we believed there was instant potential for harming the public.”

This recent suspension, ordered by state Administrative Law Judge M. Gayle Askren is not Lacey’s first difficulty with the board, according to board officials.

In 1980, board officials said they revoked Lacey’s license after determining that he had given “speed” and marijuana to a 14-year-old female patient and sexually abused her.

Lacey regained his license in 1983 but was placed on probation and limited to practicing only in group settings. Four years later, his license was fully restored.

In a separate hearing, the board will seek to permanently revoke Lacey’s license to practice psychology in the state.