Summary
A 38-year-old deputy program manager for a Defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The Statement of Reasons detailed the applicant's history of Bipolar I disorder, including inpatient care in a military mental-health facility in August 2014, August 2015, and October 2015, following bipolar episodes. The applicant has received treatment from the VA since August 2014 and has not had inpatient treatment since October 2015.
A licensed psychologist evaluated the applicant in December 2020, diagnosing him with Bipolar I disorder, full remission. While an allegation was raised regarding an ongoing pattern to conceal the truth and minimize his condition, the administrative judge ultimately found that the applicant's condition is in remission.
The clearance was granted because the applicant's Bipolar I disorder was found to be in full remission by a U.S. Government approved psychologist. He demonstrated ongoing compliance with prescribed medication and treatment recommendations, and received strong support from family and mental health professionals. With ongoing treatment, he is deemed eligible for access to classified information.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant's Bipolar I disorder was found to be in full remission by a U.S. Government approved psychologist.
- The applicant demonstrated ongoing compliance with prescribed medication and treatment recommendations.
- The applicant received strong support from family and mental health professionals.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 28(a)raisedBehavior That Casts Doubt on Judgment, Stability, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(b)raisedOpinion by a Mental Health Professional Indicating a Condition That May Impair Judgment
- AG ¶ 28(c)raisedVoluntary or Involuntary Inpatient Hospitalization
- AG ¶ 28(d)raisedFailure to Follow a Prescribed Treatment Plan
- AG ¶ 29(a)appliedCondition Is Readily Controllable with Treatment and Compliance Is Demonstrated
- AG ¶ 29(b)appliedVoluntary Entry Into a Counseling or Treatment Program with a Favorable Prognosis
- AG ¶ 29(c)appliedRecent Opinion by a Qualified Mental Health Professional That the Condition Is Under Control
- AG ¶ 29(d)appliedPast Psychological Condition Was Temporary and Resolved
- AG ¶ 29(e)appliedNo Indication of a Current Problem
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon meeting the criteria contained in the adjudicative guidelines.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJul 22, 2021
- Answer filedJul 23, 2021
- Hearing heldApr 18, 2022
- Decision dateJul 5, 2022
Cite For
- Mitigation of Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Importance of Treatment Compliance in Security Clearance Cases
- The Role of Family Support in Mitigating Security Concerns