Feb. 20, 2026
By Elise Takahama, Seattle Times health reporter
A Richland OB-GYN has been accused of medically and sexually abusing patients for years, with a state investigation and a flood of lawsuits outlining conduct ranging from invasive touching to performing major surgeries without consent.
At least 17 women have sued Dr. Mark Mulholland in King County Superior Court since August, detailing alleged instances of unprofessional conduct, verbal abuse and pelvic exams that were not medically necessary, sometimes painful and performed without gloves. The lawsuits also name Mulholland’s former employer, Providence Health & Services, headquartered in Renton, asserting that patient complaints were disregarded.
An additional 31 patients have filed lawsuits in King County Superior Court with similar allegations against Mulholland — but that solely name Providence and its Kadlec obstetrics and gynecology clinic, where he worked, as defendants.
The lawsuits come amid an investigation by the Washington Medical Commission that so far has resulted in the panel imposing restrictions on Mulholland’s medical license. Mulholland still has an active physician and surgeon license in Washington, but, per the commission, is not allowed to work with female patients while the state investigation continues.
Mulholland has not been criminally charged. Police in Richland said Thursday they are investigating.
Mulholland’s license, which he’s held for 26 years, comes up for renewal in March. It’s not clear if he will seek to renew it.
Attorneys for Mulholland did not respond to requests for comment, but have denied allegations in court documents, rejecting “any implications of negligence, liability, proximate cause.”
Providence is accused in the lawsuits of corporate negligence, and violating state discrimination and consumer protection laws. The 40 filings, with some filed by more than one patient, include plaintiff allegations from 2016 to 2025.
Emily Volland, director of communication for Providence’s Southeast Washington area, said she could not comment on ongoing litigation or the state investigation.
“We take our patient’s safety very seriously and are fully cooperating with the state in this matter,” Volland wrote in a statement.
The patients with medical malpractice claims are represented by attorneys in Seattle, and Tamara Holder, an attorney with Chicago-based Tamara Holder Law firm. In all, their teams have spoken with about 200 patients who say they were harmed by Mulholland, according to Holder.
“I hope that we can resolve this case in a way that provides a meaningful outcome for the women who have been abused,” said Holder, who went to high school in Kennewick.
Range of complaints
Patient complaints about Mulholland date back more than 20 years, but it wasn’t until the state medical board brought disciplinary charges in April that a fuller scope of the accusations against the doctor emerged.
The Tri-City Herald and other local media covered the board’s actions, leading other patients to reach out to attorneys to inquire about possible legal claims, Holder said.
In one of the lawsuits, filed Aug. 25 by Holder’s team, a patient identified as “Jane Doe 104” said Mulholland gave a “rough and aggressive” pelvic exam in 2023 that led her to scream out in pain. She told a supervisor at Kadlec’s Associated Physicians for Women clinic, the lawsuit says. The supervisor said they would look into it and call her back, but she was never contacted, the lawsuit says.
A few weeks later, the patient went to Richland police, but the department declined to further investigate. According to the case report, part of which is included in the Aug. 25 lawsuit, there was not enough evidence of a crime as the alleged misconduct “occurred during a medical examination,” an officer wrote.
Richland police Cmdr. Damon Jansen noted in an email to The Seattle Times that while law enforcement officers can investigate alleged incidents that occur during medical exams, “it is not something that happens with great frequency … due to a myriad of reasons.”
Jansen declined to elaborate on what those reasons might include.
In another lawsuit, which includes a claim of medical battery among other violations, Jane Doe 109 alleges that in 2023, she thought she would be undergoing a labiaplasty, but Mulholland ended up performing a much more major surgery — one that removed both her fallopian tubes, which left her unable to conceive. She did not consent to that procedure, the lawsuit says.
Jane Doe 110, who was 15 during her first pregnancy and when she became Mulholland’s patient, alleges he did an invasive examination without gloves. She had received hardly any gynecological care before meeting Mulholland in 2016.
It wasn’t until 2024, when she became pregnant again and started seeing a different provider for prenatal care, that she began questioning Mulholland’s behavior.
Her new provider expressed concern after the patient described his actions.
She also reported Mulholland to Richland police, the lawsuit says.
Jansen said police have not questioned Mulholland, but the department is investigating multiple allegations against him.
State inquiry
Since the Washington Medical Commission made its findings against Mulholland in April, the board has received at least 26 similar complaints about him, said Kyle Karinen, the commission’s executive director.
“That’s fairly unusual for us,” Karinen said. “I’ve worked here for a number of years and I can’t remember quite that number of complaints flowing in” after initial disciplinary charges were filed.
“That’s incredibly concerning,” he added.
The medical commission — run by 21 governor-appointed members — is housed within the state Department of Health and tasked with licensing and regulating physicians, physician assistants and certified anesthesiology assistants.
The commission’s April charges referenced reports from three patients who saw Mulholland between 2022 and 2024, during which he allegedly asked questions that made them uncomfortable and inappropriately touched them.
The commission ordered restrictions on Mulholland’s license in September.
In December, the medical commission updated its charges with accusations from six more patients alleging misconduct between 2017 and 2024. The additional patients described appointments where Mulholland allegedly instructed them to use sex toys, told them to call his personal cellphone, body-shamed them and made jokes about their vaginas, the charges say. The commission added sexual misconduct to its list of alleged violations.
The state group is reviewing four other accusations related to Mulholland, with several more “authorized for investigation” after those, Karinen said.
Mulholland has the opportunity to defend himself at an administrative hearing, where he can testify in front of a commission panel and state investigators will present evidence, Karinen said. After that, commission members will vote on what to do with Mulholland’s license.
A hearing has not yet been scheduled.
“The commission takes these cases incredibly seriously,” Karinen said. “These are a priority … and we devote an immense amount of resources into investigating these cases.”
‘Institutional failure’
In addition to bringing claims against Mulholland, Holder said the lawsuits are about “institutional failure” at Providence Kadlec.
According to the lawsuits, patients complained about him to the clinic’s staff, supervisors and its patient relations department, but felt their concerns were dismissed or ignored.
“One of the most shocking details is that after the Washington Medical Commission’s filing on April 29, (Providence) continued to allow him to work unchaperoned and without notifying patients,” Holder said.
Volland, of Providence, said Mulholland is no longer employed by Kadlec, but declined to answer questions about when he stopped practicing there.
Providence has locations in Alaska, Montana, Oregon, California and Washington.
The other lawsuits that reference Mulholland but do not name him as a defendant also include allegations of sexual abuse during medical appointments. But their claims are against Providence, Kadlec Regional Medical Center and the Associated Physicians for Women clinic, which the lawsuits argue “should have known that Dr. Mulholland was sexually abusing patients.”
Because there are separate filings against Mulholland, there will likely be multiple civil trials.
You trust medical professionals with your body, your health, and your secrets. When that trust is shattered by abuse, it's a violation of the highest order. It leaves deep scars and often makes you feel powerless.
But you aren't powerless. The legal system provides avenues to hold these predators accountable. Understanding the legal consequences for doctors who abuse patients is the first step in reclaiming your power. We're going to walk through exactly what happens when a doctor abuses their position of power and the steps you can take to seek justice and protect yourself and others from further harm.
This is the most direct consequence for physical or sexual assault. If a doctor touches you inappropriately without your consent or uses their position to coerce you into sexual acts, that's a crime. Depending on the severity of the act and the state laws, they can face misdemeanor or felony charges.
A conviction often leads to significant prison time. Prosecutors take these cases seriously because doctors hold a position of public trust. When they abuse that trust to harm vulnerable patients, the justice system aims to punish them harshly to protect the community.
A doctor's license is their livelihood, and losing it is a career-ending penalty. State medical boards are responsible for licensing and disciplining physicians.
When a board receives a credible complaint about patient abuse, they launch an investigation. If they find the doctor violated professional standards—especially regarding sexual misconduct—revocation of their medical license is a common outcome.
This means they can never practice medicine again in that state. It effectively strips them of their professional identity and prevents them from harming anyone else in a medical setting.
The National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) is a federal repository of reports on medical malpractice payments and adverse actions against healthcare practitioners. If a doctor faces disciplinary action, loses their license, or settles a malpractice lawsuit related to abuse, it gets reported here.
While the public can't access this directly, hospitals and other healthcare organizations must query it before hiring a doctor. This creates a permanent black mark that follows them everywhere. It stops abusers from simply moving to a new state or hospital to hide their past behaviors.
Beyond criminal charges, you have the right to sue the abuser in civil court. This is where you can seek financial compensation for the harm done to you. You can sue for pain and suffering, emotional distress, medical bills for therapy, and lost wages if you couldn't work due to the trauma.
A successful civil lawsuit hits the abuser where it hurts—their wallet. It forces them to pay for the damage they caused. The burden of proof is also lower in civil court than in criminal court, which makes it an accessible path to justice for many survivors.
Board certification is a mark of excellence in a specific specialty, like gynecology or psychiatry. It tells patients that a doctor has gone above and beyond basic licensing requirements.
Medical specialty boards have strict codes of ethics. If a doctor is found to have abused a patient, these boards will strip them of their certification. Losing this status is a major blow to their professional reputation. It signals to the entire medical community that this person is unethical and unfit to hold a prestigious title.
Insurance companies don’t want to be associated with liabilities. If a doctor is accused or convicted of abusing patients, insurance providers will often terminate their contracts. This means the doctor can no longer accept patients covered by those insurance plans.
Since most patients rely on insurance to pay for healthcare, being kicked out of these networks destroys a doctor's patient base. It makes it financially impossible for them to sustain a private practice. This financial squeeze is a powerful consequence that limits their ability to operate in the medical field.
If the abuse involved sexual assault and leads to a criminal conviction, the doctor may be required to register as a sex offender. This is a public and permanent label. Being on the sex offender registry restricts where they can live and work. It alerts their neighbors and community to their crimes. For a professional who depends on public trust, this consequence is devastating.
Doctors need "privileges" to admit and treat patients at hospitals. Hospitals act quickly to protect their own reputations and the safety of their patients. If an allegation of abuse arises, a hospital will typically suspend the doctor immediately pending an investigation. If the allegations are substantiated, those privileges are permanently revoked.
Without hospital privileges, a doctor can’t perform surgeries or treat patients in a hospital setting. This effectively cuts them off from a major part of medical practice and isolates them professionally.
If the abuse involved billing fraud—like billing insurance for "exams" that were actually assaults—federal agencies like the DEA or FBI might get involved. Doctors who exploit patients often exploit the financial system too.
Federal investigations are thorough and aggressive. They can lead to federal prison sentences, massive fines, and asset forfeiture. This adds another layer of legal pressure on top of state charges. It turns the full weight of the federal government against the abuser.
In many jurisdictions, medical boards and hospital administrators are mandatory reporters. If they discover evidence of sexual abuse during their internal investigations, they must turn it over to the police. The doctor can’t rely on professional courtesy or silence to protect them.
This escalates administrative punishments, like losing a job, into criminal investigations. It bridges the gap between professional discipline and criminal justice so that predators face the full scope of the law for their actions.
The system is complex, but it’s built to punish those who exploit vulnerability. If you believe your doctor—whether it be your psychiatrist, your therapist, or your general practitioner—has crossed a line, reach out to a specialized lawyer like Tamara N. Holder to discuss your case and seek justice against them.
Tamara N. Holder and her team have extensive experience taking OBGYN sexual assault cases, amongst other types of doctor-patient abuse, to court to fight for the dignity of survivors. We understand the legal consequences for doctors who abuse patients and how to use them to protect you.
It feels like the landscape of women's health changes every single day. You might feel overwhelmed by the constant news cycle, but staying on the sidelines serves no one. We have to stay ready. Knowledge is power here. When you understand the legal and medical landscape, you can advocate for yourself and others effectively.
To help you navigate this complex world, we put together nine things to know about fighting for reproductive rights. These points will help you stand up for yourself and the women in your life.
When people talk about reproductive rights, the conversation often narrows to a single topic: abortion. While abortion is a topic that deserves our attention, it's just one part of the bigger picture—reproductive rights encompass so much more.
These rights include your ability to access affordable contraception, receive quality prenatal and postnatal care, and get comprehensive sex education. They also cover your entitlement to a safe workplace during pregnancy and protections against discrimination based on your reproductive choices. Understanding this wide scope helps you find the area you're most passionate about. You might want to focus on improving maternal mortality rates or advocating for paid family leave. It's all connected.
You don't need to be a legal expert or a seasoned activist to contribute. Sharing your personal experiences can be one of the most powerful ways to create change. Whether you're talking to friends, family, or your social media followers, your story can put a human face on complex policies. It can help someone else feel less alone or even inspire them to get involved. You never know who’s listening or who might be moved by your perspective. When policies are debated, it's the real-life impacts that often resonate the most with lawmakers and the public.
While national headlines get a lot of attention, many of the decisions that directly affect your reproductive healthcare happen at the state and local levels. Your city council, school board, and state representatives have a huge say in what’s accessible in your community. They make decisions about funding for local clinics, what’s taught in schools, and what's covered by local health plans. It’s easier to make your voice heard on a local level. Attending a town hall or writing to your local officials can have a tangible effect on the policies and resources that shape reproductive healthcare in your community.
Did you know you have specific rights related to pregnancy and reproductive health at work? The Pregnancy Discrimination Act, for example, forbids discrimination based on pregnancy when it comes to any aspect of employment. This includes hiring, firing, pay, and promotions. The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act also provides protections for nursing mothers who need to express breast milk at work. If you feel your rights have been violated, you have options. It’s important to know what you’re entitled to so you can advocate for yourself and your colleagues.
There are countless organizations working tirelessly to protect and expand reproductive rights, and they can't do it alone. Supporting them doesn't always mean donating money, though that's certainly helpful. You can also volunteer your time, share their content on social media, or sign up for their newsletters to stay informed. These groups are on the front lines, providing direct services, lobbying lawmakers, and filing legal challenges. By amplifying their work, you extend their reach and help them achieve their goals.
The journey from a bill to a law can seem complicated, but a basic understanding can make you a more effective advocate. You can track bills as they move through committees and learn when public comment periods are open. This is your chance to officially weigh in on proposed legislation. Testifying at a hearing or submitting written testimony can provide lawmakers with a constituent's perspective, which is incredibly valuable. Many state legislature websites have tools that make it easy to follow bills you care about.
Economic security and reproductive rights are deeply intertwined. The ability to decide if and when to have children directly impacts your financial stability and career opportunities. High costs for childcare, a lack of paid family leave, and the gender pay gap all create barriers. Advocating for policies that support economic justice, like equal pay and affordable childcare, is a huge part of fighting for reproductive freedom. When you have control over your economic future, you're in a better position to make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
In the digital age, it's easy to come across misleading or completely false information about reproductive health. It's a good practice to get your information from trusted sources, like medical organizations, established research institutions, and reputable news outlets. When you see misinformation spreading online, you can help by not sharing it. Instead, you can gently correct it with a link to a credible source. Fact-checking is a simple but powerful action that helps everyone stay correctly informed.
In an era of digital tracking, protecting your personal data is more important than ever. This includes information about your menstrual cycle, your location history, and your internet searches related to reproductive health. You can take steps to secure your digital footprint by using privacy-focused browsers, turning off location services for certain apps, and being mindful of the information you share online. Understanding how your data can be used is the first step in protecting yourself from potential misuse.
Navigating these issues can feel overwhelming, but it's important to know you're not in it alone. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and every action counts. These things to know about fighting for reproductive rights are your starting point for making a difference.
At Tamara N. Holder, we want to help you fight for your reproductive rights. Everyone deserves the right to make decisions about their own body and reproductive health. That's why, as an activist attorney, we take on cases for those who've faced injustice, including those denied access to abortion, faced pregnancy discrimination at work, or experienced medical malpractice during reproductive healthcare procedures. If you have a case that you need help with, contact us today and let's chat about how we can support you.
For many women, visits to an OBGYN can be uncomfortable; even when your doctor is professional and kind, the appointment involves exposure, vulnerability, and intimate touching. But uncomfortable examinations shouldn't make you feel violated or demeaned.
The issue is, even when a woman feels violated visiting their OBGYN, they frequently brush this off as normal. Pelvic exams are supposed to be uncomfortable, they think. It's not wrong the doctor touched me like that; it was probably just part of the examination.
Because OBGYNs deal with some of our most intimate body parts, it can be hard to tell what actions by a doctor are normal and what crosses the line into assault. This leads to many OBGYN on patient abuse cases going unnoticed and unreported. But there are other things that can make this type of abuse hard to spot, too. Let's explore why harmful behavior by OBGYNS can be difficult to recognize and how you can better identify signs that your doctor may be acting inappropriately.
Doctors hold a position of authority. We grow up with the message that they're experts we can trust with our health and our bodies. This creates a power dynamic where patients may feel hesitant to question a doctor's actions, even if something feels wrong. You might feel that because they have a medical degree, they know better than you do about your own body.
This deference to authority can make you second-guess your own feelings. You might dismiss a sense of violation as an overreaction or a misunderstanding of medical procedure. The doctor's confidence and professional demeanor can further reinforce the idea that everything they do is medically necessary and standard practice.
The OBGYN field is unique because examinations are inherently invasive. This can blur the lines between a standard medical procedure and abuse. A patient may not know what a "normal" pelvic exam or breast exam should feel like, which makes it easy for an abusive doctor to take advantage of the situation.
For example, an abuser might perform unnecessary touches, prolong an examination, or make inappropriate comments under the guise of medical care. Without a clear understanding of what's medically appropriate, a patient can easily mistake abusive behavior for a standard part of the check-up. This uncertainty is a powerful tool for abusers, as it creates doubt in the patient's mind.
Women's pain and discomfort are frequently dismissed in medical settings. You might have been told that pain is just a part of being a woman, or that you're being "too sensitive." This societal conditioning can lead you to believe that any discomfort you feel during an OBGYN visit is something you just have to endure.
When you've been taught to ignore your own body's signals, it becomes much harder to recognize when a boundary has been crossed. You might rationalize the experience by telling yourself, "It's supposed to hurt a little," or "It's always awkward." This normalization of discomfort makes it difficult to distinguish between routine medical unpleasantness and actual abuse.
Abusive medical professionals are masters of manipulation. They know how to exploit the trust and vulnerability of their patients. An abuser might use a friendly or charming personality to put you at ease, which makes it harder to believe they could do something wrong.
They might also use medical jargon to confuse or intimidate you, which makes you feel like you can't question their actions. Some abusers will isolate patients by insisting that a chaperone is not needed or by conducting exams in a way that feels secretive. These tactics are all designed to maintain control and prevent the patient from recognizing the abuse.
Many women aren't fully aware of their rights as patients. You have the right to have a chaperone present for any examination. You have the right to ask questions about any procedure and to have it explained to you in terms you can understand. You have the right to say "stop" at any time.
When you don't know your rights, you can't advocate for yourself effectively. An abusive doctor can take advantage of this lack of knowledge. Education about patient rights is a powerful tool for prevention, as it empowers you to set boundaries and demand respectful care.
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where an abuser makes a victim question their own reality. An abusive doctor might do this by denying their actions, which suggests the patient imagined it or is being overly sensitive. They might say things like, "That's a normal part of the exam," or "You're just feeling anxious."
This can be incredibly disorienting and can cause you to doubt your own perceptions. Over time, gaslighting can erode your self-trust, which makes it even harder to recognize that you're a victim of abuse. You may start to believe that you're the one with the problem, not the doctor.
Trauma can affect memory. After an abusive experience, you might find it difficult to recall the exact details of what happened. Your memory may feel fragmented or blurry, which can make you question the validity of your own experience. It's helpful to remember that a fragmented memory of a traumatic event is a normal response. It doesn’t mean the abuse didn't happen.
OBGYN on patient abuse goes unnoticed and unreported because survivors don't understand that what happened to them isn't normal. Or, even when they're aware their doctor's actions aren't right, they're scared of the consequences of reporting. They don't want to relive the trauma. They feel ashamed.
But survivors should know these things: they're not alone. Their legal team will do everything to protect them. And their decision to speak up can bring their abuser to justice. This can mean closure for them. But it can also give other women the courage to come forward, and it can protect other patients from what they experienced.
If you've been assaulted and want to speak with a lawyer, Tamara N. Holder and her team specialize in gynecologist sexual assault cases. We've helped many other women bring charges against their doctors and win their cases. Don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our kind and empathetic team will listen to your story and help you understand your legal options. We'll be at your side the entire way and provide support as you bravely seek justice.
You feel you have a strong case against a therapist who betrayed your trust. You’re ready to pursue legal action, but you're also worried. What if the therapist retaliates? What if your private information becomes public? These worries are valid, but they shouldn't stop you from seeking justice. Knowing the legal rights you have as a client suing a therapist in Chicago will empower you to take the next step.
One of the biggest concerns for anyone suing a therapist is confidentiality. You’ve likely shared your deepest secrets with your therapist, and the thought of them becoming public is terrifying. You should know that your privacy is protected under the law. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets strict rules about how your protected health information (PHI) can be shared. Illinois law reinforces this with the Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act.
These laws mandate that your therapist and their legal team can't freely share your private therapy records. Disclosure is strictly limited to information directly relevant to the lawsuit. A court will typically issue a protective order to prevent your personal details from becoming public record.
You have a right to see what's in your file. Under HIPAA, you’re entitled to access your own protected health information, which includes therapy notes, diagnoses, and treatment plans. You can request a copy of these records from your therapist’s office.
If your therapist refuses to release them, you have options. First, you can file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the US Department of Health and Human Services. Your attorney can also issue a subpoena to obtain them. In some cases, a court order may be necessary to guarantee compliance.
These records can be powerful evidence. They might show inconsistencies in the therapist's notes, document the events that caused you harm, or provide a timeline for your case. Your attorney will use these documents to build the strongest argument possible on your behalf.
Your safety is a priority. If you fear retaliation, harassment, or any form of intimidation from the therapist you're suing, the court can intervene. You can request a restraining order or an order of protection.
These legal tools prohibit the therapist from contacting you, coming near your home or workplace, or communicating with you through third parties. Violating such an order has serious legal consequences for the therapist. This protection allows you to pursue your case without the added stress of feeling unsafe.
You don't have to face this alone. You have the right to hire an attorney who will advocate for you. A competent lawyer understands the complexities of lawsuits against healthcare professionals and will guide you through each stage.
Your attorney's job is to represent your best interests, manage all communication with the opposing side, and build the strongest case possible on your behalf. They handle the legal filings, negotiations, and court appearances, which lets you focus on your well-being as you navigate the often-stressful legal process.
In highly sensitive cases, especially those involving sexual assault or extreme privacy concerns, you may have the right to file a lawsuit under a pseudonym, such as "Jane Doe" or "John Doe." This allows you to protect your identity from public exposure.
An attorney must petition the court to grant this right. They'll argue that the potential for public shame, harassment, or personal danger outweighs the public's interest in knowing your name. Illinois courts recognize the need for this protection in specific circumstances to safeguard vulnerable individuals.
The decision to settle is yours alone. The other side might offer a settlement to resolve the case outside of court. While your attorney will provide advice on whether the offer is fair, they can't accept it without your explicit consent.
You have the absolute right to reject any settlement offer and proceed to trial if you feel the proposed amount doesn't adequately compensate you for your harm. Your voice is the one that matters most in this decision. You're in control of the outcome.
Should your case go to trial, you have the right to trial by a jury of your peers. The legal system has a process called "voir dire," where your attorney can question potential jurors to uncover any biases that would prevent them from being fair and impartial.
This process helps select a jury that can listen to the evidence without prejudice. Your attorney’s job is to find jurors who can empathize with your situation and deliver a just verdict based on the facts presented.
It’s illegal for a therapist to retaliate against you for filing a lawsuit or a complaint with a licensing board. This is protected under various state laws and the ethical codes of professional organizations, such as the American Psychological Association (APA). These rules are designed to protect your right to seek recourse without fear of punishment from your provider. The specific law will vary by state. In Illinois, the Illinois Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Confidentiality Act and regulations governing professional conduct for licensed therapists uphold this standard.
Retaliation can take many forms, including spreading false information about you or interfering with your future treatment with other professionals. If you experience any form of retaliation, it can become a separate legal claim against the therapist. Document any instances of such behavior and report them to your attorney immediately. The law protects you from being punished for exercising your rights.
You have legal rights when you decide to sue a therapist in the city of Chicago, and you don't have to navigate this complicated journey alone. Don't let fear or uncertainty stop you from seeking the accountability you deserve.
As a women's rights law firm, Tamara N. Holder and her team are dedicated to helping women stand up to those who have wronged them. We’re here to listen, to believe you, and to fight for you with empathy and determination. We’ll take on the legal burdens so that you can focus on healing. Let us be your advocates and guide you toward justice. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
Fraternity parties are a cornerstone of college life, offering students a chance to unwind, bond with peers, and create lasting memories. These events, often filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie, have the potential to bring an entire campus community together.
However, issues such as alcohol overconsumption, lack of clear boundaries, and a general lack of security measures can create environments where attendees may feel unsafe or vulnerable. In this article, we’ll take a look at real, actionable tips for fraternities to make their parties safer.
Overcrowded spaces can lead to situations where it’s harder to keep track of everyone, and that’s when accidents can happen. Limiting the number of attendees means that the environment remains manageable and allows party hosts to pay closer attention to their guests. Only let in people you trust.
Designating a set of sober monitors for every party is a simple but highly impactful safety measure. These individuals should remain completely sober throughout the event and actively monitor the party for potential red flags, such as situations involving excessive inebriation, conflicts, or anyone looking unwell.
The key is to rotate this responsibility among fraternity members for every party so the responsibility doesn’t feel burdensome to a single individual or small group. Make sure those assigned as sober monitors are easily identifiable to attendees, whether through specific T-shirts, lanyards, or badges, so guests know who to approach for help if needed.
Fraternities should take an active role in controlling the availability and distribution of alcohol to guests. Rather than providing unlimited, self-serve alcohol, consider hiring bartenders or assigning responsible members to oversee distribution.
This way, guests won’t overserve themselves. Plus, you’ll always have the opportunity to safely cut someone off if they seem to be overindulging. Serving alcohol in smaller portions and avoiding high-alcohol-content beverages such as pure liquor can also help prevent overconsumption.
Not everyone drinks alcohol, and it’s important to consider all your guests by providing alcohol-free beverage options. Stock water, soda, and other nonalcoholic drinks in ample supply so everyone has something to enjoy.
You could even get creative by offering mocktails or specialty nonalcoholic beverages to make these options feel just as festive as their alcoholic counterparts. Plus, normalizing the availability of alcohol-free options means no one feels pressured or excluded due to their preferences.
Enforcing strict ID checks at the door should be nonnegotiable at your party. Underage drinking poses legal issues and puts younger attendees at greater risk of harm. Designate a trusted group of fraternity members to thoroughly check IDs and verify the age of each guest before you allow them in.
Make it clear in your event invitations that IDs will be required so partygoers come prepared and know your commitment to safety. This is an easy way to protect your fraternity as well as your guests.
Sexual harassment can take many forms, from inappropriate comments to unwanted physical contact. Fraternity members should be honorable enough to intervene appropriately and respectfully.
Here, your sober monitors are your lead defense and can help mediate situations. If you see someone inebriated being taken out by someone they didn’t come in with, don’t be afraid to step in. It’s better to have made a simple assumption than to let someone get hurt.
Another important aspect of maintaining safety at parties is securing all rooms and spaces that aren’t part of the event. Unsupervised or unlocked areas can become opportunities for risky behavior or unsafe situations.
Before the party begins, conduct a walkthrough of the house with your fraternity members to identify which rooms should remain off-limits. Lock doors to these areas and clearly mark restricted spaces with visible signs to avoid misunderstandings. This simple precaution prevents potential issues like theft, property damage, or unsafe situations from arising in areas that aren’t monitored during the event.
While providing alcohol responsibly is a common focus, it’s equally important to be alert about the possibility of drug use or tampering. Drugs, especially when used covertly or combined with alcohol, can lead to highly dangerous and unpredictable situations.
While you can’t control the behavior of others, you can have clearly labeled, easily accessible trash cans and recycling bins so guests can properly dispose of drinks they no longer want. Additionally, train members to recognize signs of drug use or intoxication and step in when someone appears to need help.
Accidents happen, and it’s essential to be prepared for any scenario by having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. Place the kit in a location that’s easily accessible to designated members.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize key members with basic first aid practices and emergency procedures, including when to contact emergency services. Remember, if you’re faced with an overdose situation or alcohol poisoning, never be afraid to call emergency services. They’re here to help you, not report you for making a mistake, and know better than anyone that a young life is most important.
Your fraternity can only be as safe as your collective willingness to act when something seems off. If members or guests notice troubling behavior or potential risks, encourage them to speak up immediately. This starts with cultivating a culture of accountability from the beginning and regularly reinforcing that it’s everyone’s responsibility to look out for one another.
Create a system where concerns can be reported discreetly, such as an anonymous tip line or through designated trusted individuals for reporting incidents in real time. Prompt action can often de-escalate situations before they worsen for the safety and comfort of everyone present.
Fraternities can make parties safer in many ways for the betterment of the campus community. However, outside events can sometimes still result in potential safety risks, from sexual harassment to alcohol overconsumption.
If you or someone you love has been victimized, reach out to the Law Firm of Tamara N Holder today. Our team of Title IX attorneys is here to support and lift you up during your fight for justice.
Sep 5, 2025
Case claims Providence and Kadlec concealed decades of patient complaints
SEATTLE – Lawsuits continue to mount against Tri-Cities OBGYN, Mark E. Mulholland. Another, filed by Jane Doe 103, adds to the more than 100 other women who have come forward with abuse allegations. Represented by Tamara Holder of Tamara Holder Law and Washington co-counsel, Jane Doe 103’s lawsuit in King County Superior Court alleges physical and sexual abuse by Dr. Mulholland, who worked for Providence St. Joseph Health and Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, Washington, from 1999 through June 2025.
Jane Doe 103 alleges that during her first appointment with Mulholland in 2022, he abused her by inserting his fingers into her vagina and rectum to perform an “exam.” He told her that she would need further treatment and directed her to return for another appointment. At the subsequent appointment, Mulholland performed the same “exam,” and complimented her figure and weight.
According to Jane Doe’s lawsuit, she continued to see Mulholland for an operation, and later, about a possible yeast infection. During her 2024 appointment regarding a yeast infection, Mulholland performed an “exam,” swabbing the inside of her vagina. He proceeded to sniff the swab and say, “It smells great,” and “You have a nice-looking vagina.”
Had she been notified by Kadlec Providence of the numerous complaints from female patients about Mulholland’s conduct, Jane Doe 103 would not have agreed to see him to begin with.
Dr. Mulholland treated his female patients in the most unthinkable ways. Additionally, despite Kadlec claiming to have ‘safe, compassionate care,’ it did not respond to the dozens of complaints about Mulholland that piled up over decades. We will not rest until we hold everyone accountable for this atrocious conduct on all levels,” Holder added.
Jane Doe 103’s lawsuit accuses the defendants of sex discrimination and abuse, failure to protect patients and institutional negligence.
If you or someone you know has information about Mark Mulholland or the institutions where he worked, please reach out as soon as possible. Unfortunately, the amount of time to come forward is limited.
To learn more about the firms’ work representing survivors of abuse and discrimination, visit: tamaraholderlaw.com/
Divided Sky Foundation Launches New Women’s Scholarship Fund to Break Barriers & Expand Access to Recovery
Ludlow, VT – September 10, 2025 — The Divided Sky Foundation today announced the launch of a Women’s Scholarship Fund, designed to address the unique barriers women face when seeking treatment for addiction. The Fund will provide financial support so that women — regardless of income — can access a dignified and empowering path to recovery. The Foundation has set a goal of raising $500,000 for the Fund by the end of this year and invites supporters to learn more or contribute at HERE.
Founded by Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio and his former drug court officer Melanie Gulde, the Divided Sky Foundation provides an alternative, affordable option for addiction recovery. Its Residential Recovery Program has proven effective, with hundreds of guests completing the program and over 95% saying they would recommend it to a friend or loved one. The Women’s Scholarship will now help more women access these services, regardless of financial circumstance.
“We established the Women’s Scholarship Fund to help all women heal, regardless of their ability to pay for recovery — and it is clear our Fund is already working,” said women’s rights advocate and attorney Tamara Holder, who covered the cost of the first female guest at Divided Sky in 2023 and later made a major gift to establish the Fund. “Women are the fastest-growing demographic affected by addiction. The statistics are stark: more than 75% of women struggling with addiction have experienced sexual abuse, over 70% are mothers, and women face a higher risk of fatal overdose.”
Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) further underscores the need to make recovery services more accessible to women:
● Women account for just one-third of admissions to residential or inpatient recovery facilities.
● Only one in ten women with substance use disorder receive treatment.
● Women are more likely than men to encounter traumatic life experiences, including child abuse, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault, which may increase their vulnerability to developing a substance use disorder.
“Women recover differently and face unique barriers that often leave them overwhelmed and discouraged,” said Gulde. “Stigma, cost, and childcare responsibilities can all stand in the way of seeking help. The Women’s Scholarship Fund is our response: more than financial aid, it’s a statement that every woman is worthy of a sober life — and we are here to support them.”
Gulde and Anastasio jointly developed the idea for Divided Sky after recognizing the lack of affordable recovery options in the Northeast. The initiative was first announced in 2020 during Anastasio’s Beacon Jams livestream series. Now, as the five-year anniversary approaches — along with a series of benefit concerts at New York’s Beacon Theatre — Divided Sky is taking the next step to address critical gaps in the recovery system.
“I’m so grateful that Melanie and Tamara are leading this next stage of Divided Sky with a dedicated women’s scholarship program,” said Anastasio. “With a women-led team that deeply understands the trauma that so often precedes addiction, and scholarships that remove the financial barriers to care, this program can give more women the chance to heal and start fresh.”
Those wishing to support the Divided Sky Foundation may make donations at HERE and direct their gift to the Women’s Scholarship Fund directly. Several Phish fan groups are also planning grassroots fundraisers tied to this announcement, which coincides with National Recovery Month. More initiatives will be unveiled ahead of the Beacon Jams anniversary concerts this fall.
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ABOUT THE DIVIDED SKY FOUNDATION (DSF):
The Divided Sky Foundation is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to addiction recovery. Founded through the friendship of Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio and his former drug-court case manager, Melanie Gulde,, the 46-bed Divided Sky residential facility opened in Ludlow, VT. in 2023.. Its non-medical program emphasizes mindfulness, emotional sobriety, and gaining tools to live a joyful life in recovery. Divided Sky is often the next step following a medical detox or relapse, or can be a primary option for anyone who is medically stable and ready to make a change. Divided Sky continues to make its 12-step immersive Residential Recovery Program affordable to all, with partial scholarships available to those who demonstrate need. For more information on the Divided Sky Foundation, the Women’s Scholarship Fund, or how to apply or contribute, visit DividedSky.org. Those seeking help for themselves or a loved one can call 877-TRY-DSKY to speak with Divided Sky’s admissions coordinator.
Medical care is built on a foundation of trust, where patients rely on doctors to listen, validate, and address their concerns with care and expertise. However, there are situations where this fundamental trust can be shaken by a phenomenon known as medical gaslighting.
This occurs when a medical professional dismisses, minimizes, or invalidates a patient’s symptoms, leaving them feeling unheard or questioning their own experiences. While most healthcare providers prioritize patient well-being, recognizing and addressing the signs of medical gaslighting is crucial to fostering a healthier, more equitable doctor-patient relationship. In this article, we’ll do our best to help you more effectively advocate for your health and regain confidence in your care.
Medical gaslighting can present itself in many ways. Below are the top red flags to watch for.
One of the most common signs of medical gaslighting is the outright dismissal or minimization of your symptoms. Providers may use phrases like “It’s all in your head” or “You’re just stressed,” which can make you feel invalidated and ignored.
Sometimes, it’s subtler. They might brush off your concerns by attributing them to nonspecific or temporary issues without more thorough exploration. This disregard can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, leaving you to feel unheard and alone in managing your health.
When medical providers dismiss your symptoms, they often inaccurately blame them on factors such as lifestyle choices, mental health conditions, or weight without sufficient evidence. While lifestyle can indeed influence health, this overly simplistic explanation ignores the possibility of other contributing factors. Doctors who do this cultivate shame and guilt in their patients rather than focusing on a collaborative path to improvement.
Gaslighting often involves inconsistency. If a provider contradicts their earlier explanations for your symptoms or changes their position without clear reasoning, it can lead to confusion and self-doubt.
For example, if one appointment mentions a possible condition, but the next dismisses it without further explanation, you may begin to question your perception or memory of events. This erodes your confidence in understanding your own health and in the provider’s reliability.
When faced with repeated dismissal, contradictions, or minimizing language, patients can start doubting themselves. Feeling like you are overreacting, misremembering critical details, or misunderstanding your symptoms could mean that you’ve been gaslit.
This can also damage your sense of agency and leave you second-guessing your instincts when it comes to your body and health. Patients need to feel empowered, not undermined, to advocate for their own well-being.
To stand up for yourself, you should prepare for your appointments, ask plenty of questions, get second opinions, and know your rights.
Aside from recognizing the signs, preparation can be a powerful tool to stop medical gaslighting in its tracks. Before your appointment, start a journal of symptoms, noting their frequency, duration, triggers, and impact on your daily life. You should also write down any specific questions or concerns you want to bring up to your doctor.
Coming prepared with detailed documentation ensures you have concrete evidence to advocate for yourself. This evidence makes it more obvious that gaslighting is at play if your doctor dismisses your concerns despite it.
If you’re unsure about a diagnosis or decision your provider made during an appointment, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. This not only helps eliminate confusion but also allows you to better understand your health.
Use specific questions such as, “What tests have been conducted or could be conducted to confirm this diagnosis?” or “Are there any alternative diagnoses or treatments we should consider?” Asking clarifying questions prevents miscommunication and makes your doctor engage with your concerns, reducing the chances of dismissive or vague responses.
Having a trusted loved one accompany you to medical appointments can provide emotional support and an extra set of ears. This advocate can help you remember details from the discussion and ask additional questions that you may not think of in the moment.
They can also provide reassurance if you feel intimidated or overwhelmed during appointments. If you anticipate a particularly challenging conversation with your provider, discussing an agenda with your support person beforehand can strengthen your approach.
If your concerns persist or you feel your medical care is inadequate, seek a second opinion. It’s perfectly acceptable—and often necessary—to consult another healthcare professional when you doubt your diagnosis or treatment plan.
Start by asking for referrals from trusted friends or family, or researching reviews of healthcare professionals in your area. Look for providers who emphasize patient-centered care, which prioritizes listening and collaboration.
Seeking a second opinion helps counter medical gaslighting by giving you a chance to validate your concerns and gain insights from a healthcare provider who may take your symptoms more seriously. If you experience chronic dismissal or negative interactions with a specific provider, it may be time to seek care elsewhere. When transitioning to a new provider, request a complete copy of your medical records to ensure continuity of care by preventing gaps in your treatment history.
Patients are entitled to respect, informed decision-making, and the right to seek alternative care. Educate yourself on resources available for support, such as patient advocates, medical ombudsmen, or nonprofit organizations that focus on patient rights.
If you feel unsupported or mistreated, these resources can elevate your voice and ensure your concerns get taken seriously. Moreover, knowing your rights reinforces your confidence to challenge dismissive behavior and demand the respect and attention you deserve.
Advocating for your health is an essential step toward ensuring you receive the care and respect you deserve. If you’ve experienced medical gaslighting, harassment, or even doctor-patient sexual assault, know that you are not alone and that there are resources and advocates ready to support you.
At the Law Firm of Tamara N Holder, we are committed to empowering individuals by holding healthcare providers accountable for inappropriate or abusive behavior. Whether you’ve faced dismissive treatment or outright harm, our team is here to help you take back control and seek justice.
