National psych group takes first-ever step in backing CIA detainee abuse claim against doctor

Psychology group backs CIA detainee abuse claim

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The American Psychological Association has taken the unprecedented step of supporting an attempt to strip the license of a psychologist accused of overseeing torture.

The APA has told a Texas licensing board in a letter mailed July 1 that the allegations against Dr. James Mitchell represent unethical actions inconsistent with APA guidelines.

APA spokeswoman Rhea Farberman says the letter is a first in the association’s history and was undertaken based on the seriousness of allegations against Mitchell.

The complaint accuses Mitchell of participating in the 2002 CIA interrogation of detainee Abu Zubaydah (zoo-BAYH’-dah), including the simulated form of drowning known as waterboarding.

Mitchell says the complaint is “riddled throughout with fabricated details, lies, distortions and inaccuracies.”