On January 19, 2026, at around 9 p.m. in Orlando, Florida, 44-year-old licensed mental health counselor Rebecca White was fatally stabbed at her office, Down to Earth Therapy Solutions, by her former client, 39-year-old Michael Smith. Smith also stabbed White’s current client—a man in his 30s—who survived after calling 911. Smith fled and was found dead by suicide about 14 miles away the next morning.
Key Details on Victims and Perpetrator
- Rebecca White: Operated her own practice; family highlighted potential security lapses in the office building, including access, surveillance, and after-hours entry.
- Surviving Client: Sustained stab wounds to the mouth, hand (possible nerve damage), and other areas; his mother launched a GoFundMe for support.
- Michael Smith: Registered sex offender, released from prison in 2022. Parole mandated psychological evaluation for violent sexual battery and anti-social personality disorder. Motive for confronting White remains undisclosed.
Broader Implications for Therapist Safety
This case underscores vulnerabilities in mental health settings, especially for solo practitioners. Therapists often work evening hours with potentially volatile clients, raising questions about:
- Office Security: After-hours access controls, like keycard systems or buzzers, could prevent unauthorized entry. White’s family called out “systematic failures” in building protocols.
- Client Risk Assessment: Former clients with violent histories (e.g., sex offenses, personality disorders) may pose ongoing threats. Protocols like no-contact orders or shared risk alerts between therapists could help.
- Industry Standards: In Florida, mental health offices must follow general workplace safety rules under OSHA, but specifics for therapy vary. Groups like the American Counseling Association recommend panic buttons, cameras, and session buffers.
Similar incidents, such as the 2019 stabbing of a California therapist by a former patient, have prompted calls for better risk management training.
| Aspect | Current Concerns | Potential Safeguards |
|---|---|---|
| Access Control | Unlocked or easy evening entry | Keycards, visitor logs, remote locking |
| Surveillance | Questioned in this case | 24/7 cameras, motion sensors |
| Client Screening | History not always flagged | Database checks, boundary agreements |
| Emergency Response | Relied on victim’s 911 call | Wearable alarms, pre-arranged check-ins |
Authorities continue investigating; no charges due to Smith’s death. White’s family seeks answers on prevention.
