A Washington man who claims to be Indian faces two investigations for misrepresenting his academic and professional background.

The University of Washington says it will take action against Terry Tafoya, whose biography states he is Taos Pueblo and Warm Springs, for falsely claiming that he earned a Ph.D. from the school. The state is also investigating Tafoya's claims that he is a psychologist despite lacking a license.

Tafoya is not enrolled at Taos Pueblo and didn't grow up there as his biography states. He is also not Warm Springs, although he was adopted by a family from the tribe.

Tafoya earns hundreds of thousands of dollars in speaking and other engagements based on alleged expertise in Indian issues.

Get the Story:
Counselor's credentials investigated (The Seattle Post-Intelligencer 6/23)

Relevant Links:
Tamanawit UnLtd. - http://www.tamanawit.com

Related Stories:
Seattle paper uncovers story of 'Indian' therapist (6/21)