Heinmiller v. Department of Health

Appellant Joan Heinmiller (Heinmiller) challenges the Department of Health’s decision to indefinitely suspend her social worker license because she engaged in a sexual relationship with a patient. The Department’s decision is predicated upon its conclusion that the relationship constitutes unprofessional conduct within the meaning of provisions (1), (2), (22), and (24) of RCW 18.130.180 (Uniform Disciplinary Act).

In 1985, Heinmiller was a social worker and counselor in private practice, who performed counseling services for Valley Cities Mental Health Center under a service contract. In…