For Attorneys: Utilizing Forensic Psychological Services in Legal Matters
What role can a forensic psychologist play in civil, criminal, and family court cases?
In civil courts, I provide evaluations for personal injury, disability claims, or competency issues. In criminal courts, services include competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, risk assessments, and sentencing recommendations. In family courts, I conduct child custody evaluations, parental fitness assessments, and assessments related to abuse or neglect. These objective, evidence-based reports can strengthen your case by clarifying psychological factors influencing behavior, decision-making, or outcomes.
How can your forensic assessments assist in my legal strategy?
Forensic assessments deliver impartial, court-admissible insights grounded in psychological science. For instance, in a criminal case, an evaluation might assess mitigating factors like mental health or trauma history. In family law, it could evaluate parenting capacity or child best interests. Attorneys often use these to inform plea negotiations, trial preparation, or settlement discussions. I also provide expert testimony when needed.
What is the billing structure for forensic assessments?
Forensic assessments are billed at $350 per hour, with a 10-hour retainer required upfront to cover initial evaluation, report preparation, and any court-related work. This ensures transparency and allows for detailed, high-quality deliverables. Unused retainer hours are refunded.
Do you provide services for indigent clients in legal proceedings?
Yes, I am part of the 18b panel and contracted with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in Maine, as well as Public Defender Services in Maine. This enables me to conduct evaluations for indigent clients in criminal and family court matters, ensuring access to forensic psychology regardless of financial means. If your client qualifies, I can guide you through the process.
For Therapists: Referring Clients for Therapeutic Assessments and Diagnostic Clarifications
What is a therapeutic assessment, and how does it differ from traditional psychological testing?
A therapeutic assessment is a collaborative, client-centered approach to psychological evaluation that integrates assessment findings into the therapeutic process. Unlike traditional testing, which focuses primarily on diagnosis, therapeutic assessments emphasize empathy, feedback sessions, and actionable insights to enhance your client's self-understanding and treatment progress. This can provide diagnostic clarification for complex cases, such as mood disorders, personality issues, or trauma-related conditions.
How can a therapeutic assessment benefit my clients in ongoing therapy?
Therapeutic assessments offer deeper insights into your client's emotional, cognitive, and relational dynamics, helping to refine treatment plans, resolve diagnostic uncertainties, and improve therapeutic outcomes. For example, it can identify underlying factors contributing to treatment resistance or suggest tailored interventions. As a referring therapist, you'll receive a comprehensive report to integrate into your work, fostering a seamless B2B2C collaboration.
What is the process for referring a client for a therapeutic assessment?
Simply contact me via email or phone to discuss the referral. We'll review the client's needs confidentially, schedule the assessment (typically 4-6 sessions), and coordinate feedback. I prioritize quick turnaround times to minimize disruption to your therapy. All assessments comply with HIPAA and ethical standards.
How much does a therapeutic assessment cost?
Therapeutic assessments are offered at a low-cost flat rate to make them accessible for your clients. This includes all sessions, testing, and a detailed report. Please inquire for the current rate, as it may vary based on specific needs.
General Questions About Services
What is the difference between therapeutic and forensic assessments?
Therapeutic assessments are designed for clinical growth and diagnostic clarification in a supportive, non-adversarial setting, often referred by therapists. Forensic assessments are legal-oriented, focusing on objective evaluations for court purposes, such as competency or risk. While both draw on similar tools (e.g., interviews, testing), forensic work adheres to stricter evidentiary standards and may involve expert testimony.
What are your qualifications as a forensic psychologist?
I am a licensed forensic psychologist with extensive experience in civil, criminal, and family courts. My practice emphasizes ethical, evidence-based assessments, and I stay current with advancements in psychological science. For specific credentials or case examples, feel free to reach out.
How long does an assessment typically take, and what can I expect?
Therapeutic assessments usually span 4-6 weeks, including intake, testing, and feedback. Forensic assessments vary by complexity but often require 10-20 hours total, with reports delivered within 4-6 weeks. The process is confidential, thorough, and tailored—starting with a consultation to align on goals.
How do I get started or inquire about services?
Contact me directly at [your email/phone] or through the website's contact form. Initial consultations are free and confidential, whether you're a therapist referring a client or an attorney exploring forensic options.
