A Gig Harbor psychologist’s license has been suspended immediately on charges of not protecting sensitive client information. The suspension by the Board of Psychology and the Washington State Department of Health means Sunil Kakar cannot practice until the charges are resolved.

Kakar allegedly kept unprotected medical information on 652 Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) clients on his personal laptop. According to charging documents, Kakar’s laptop was stolen by a prostitute. He didn’t notify DSHS about the missing laptop until five days later and initially misrepresented the number of clients who could be affected.

Kakar can’t practice in Washington until the charges are resolved. He has 20 days to respond to the charges and to ask for a hearing. The charges can be seen online by clicking, “Look up a health care provider” on the Department of Health website. Copies of the documents can be requested by calling (360) 236-4700. That number also can be used to file complaints against health care providers in Washington.

The Board of Psychology protects and promotes public health, safety, and welfare in Washington by regulating the competency and quality of licensed psychologists.