A Virginia man and his nonprofit have filed a multimillion dollar lawsuit against a woman accused of posing as a psychologist to treat him, and more than 100 others.
The Free Lance-Star reports the lawsuit was filed Friday on behalf of Vernon Green Jr. and G3 Community Services against 42-year-old Sharonda L. Avery, Aetna and two of Avery's employers.
The lawsuit says Green is a veteran who was referred to Avery in 2016 for post-traumatic stress disorder. Avery later worked for Green's nonprofit where she's accused of spending $13,000 of its funds on jewelry, hotels and more.
Green's attorney told News4 red flags first appeared when Green tried to develop marketing material about Avery for his nonprofit.
"He met with friction in getting proof of her certifications in education and he thought that was odd," attorney Jack White said.
Green reported Avery to the Stafford County Sheriff's Office. Investigators say Avery misdiagnosed and misprescribed patients while claiming to have two doctorates she didn't receive.
"This is schocking," White said.
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White said his client was torn about coming forward to file the lawsuit.
"It’s frightening, and so right now Mr. Green is in a position to ensure...or at least help ensure that this doesn't happen again," White said.
Authorities say 51 families have contacted them to say they or their children are victims of Avery since News4 first reported about the charges against her in May.
Avery faces 13 criminal charges including practicing psychology without a license.
Avery's criminal trial is set for December.
