Senate Health Committee recommends Dr. Lynette Livesay for Board of Psychologist Examiners

The Senate Health and Human Services Committee voted to recommend Dr. Lynette Livesay to the State Board of Psychologist Examiners after a committee hearing that included a biographical statement, questions about board experience and an exchange on behavioral‑health priorities.

Dr. Livesay, nominated to the state board, told the committee she has practiced in Arizona for decades and has been a licensed Arizona psychologist since 2006. She described her current role as chief psychologist at a large public‑health training program and recounted earlier work with the Arizona Department of Corrections at Perryville. “It is with great enthusiasm and commitment to the people of Arizona that I stand before you today for your consideration,” she said.

Committee members asked about Dr. Livesay’s work on the board. She said she has served on the application‑review committee, the complaint‑screening committee and the full board, meeting “two to three times a month since probably last May.” When a senator asked what she would change in behavioral health if she had a “magic wand,” Dr. Livesay emphasized removing barriers to care and better coordination among providers. “We measure success by asking the people that we’re serving if we’re helping them in the way that they need to be helped,” she said.

A committee member moved to recommend Dr. Livesay’s confirmation to the full Senate. The committee’s roll call produced five votes in favor (Senators Inge, Goldstone, QB, Sears and Warner) and two members (Senators Schamp and Schulz) did not vote. The committee clerk announced the motion carried by a 5–0 vote with two not voting and that the nomination would be returned to the full Senate for consideration.

During her remarks Dr. Livesay referenced handling complaints tied to family‑court matters and noted her executive director, Miss Pakenon, was present. She also cited volunteer service with local nonprofits and prior recognition by the Phoenix Business Journal.

The committee adjourned with no further business. The full Senate will next consider the nomination when it takes up committee referrals on its floor calendar.