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The manipulations of a psychotic killer test the limits of the therapeutic relationship in this suspenseful first novel by a clinical psychologist. The unexpected suicide of Karen Hart, followed by the violent deaths of two more women patients, brings accusations of sexual misconduct and a lawsuit against Boulder, Colo., therapist Alan Gregory. Although the sinister role of a patient is suggested during a session, it is privileged information Gregory cannot reveal without violating the rules of confidentiality. While seeking aid from colleagues, his lawyer and a female deputy DA whom he romances, Gregory remains convinced that he cannot break the confidentiality code, not even in the face of murder. Forced into sleuthing on his own, he utilizes his training to identify the killer. Despite some overkill on specifics of street routes and Southwest cuisine, White's skill in conveying the laid-back Colorado lifestyle which permeates the novel allows periodic ambushes by moments of real terror. Gregory's automatic, instantaneous character analyses, however, may lead readers to agree with Gregory's therapist partner: ``You're lucky you're talking to another shrink. I'm not sure anybody else would let you get away with saying something like that.'' 35,000 first printing; major ad/promo; BOMC and Mysterious Book Club selections. (July)