Forensic Mental Health Evaluations

Jenna Perusek, LCMHC, LPC, CFMHE

What I Can Offer As a Forensic Mental Health Expert

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (NC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (SC), certified as a Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) through the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, and as a Certified Personal Injury Assessor (CPIA). I provide objective, comprehensive forensic mental health evaluations grounded in ethical standards, empirical evidence, and clear, accessible reporting that serves the legal process.

I currently offer forensic evaluations in the following areas:

  • Diagnostic clarification and general mental health evaluations — providing objective assessment of an individual's current psychological functioning and mental health history

  • Substance use assessments — evaluating whether an individual meets criteria for a substance use disorder and the role it may play in the legal matter at hand

  • Personal injury evaluations — assessing the psychological impact of injuries, including emotional distress and trauma, to support civil claims

  • Family court evaluations — assessing the psychological functioning of individuals involved in custody or family court proceedings. These evaluations address questions about an individual's mental health history and current functioning and do not constitute custody recommendations or parenting assessments.

Where appropriate, evaluations may include individualized treatment recommendations to support the court or referring party in determining next steps.

My evaluations are concluded with a comprehensive written report in clear, accessible language — and I am available to provide expert testimony if requested.

Please note: I do not conduct traumatic brain injury (TBI) evaluations or Social Security disability determinations. I am also not an authorized DWI provider through the State for their mandated substance use assessments.

What To Expect

  • Referral and Initial Consultation

    An initial consultation is scheduled to discuss the case, goals, and any specific issues that need addressing.

  • Assessment and Data Collection

    Information is gathered through interviews, standardized tests, records review, and collateral resources.

  • Analysis and Report Writing

    I analyze the collected data to form a comprehensive understanding and clinical impression.

    A detailed and objective report is then generated, summarizing my findings and treatment recommendations.

  • Testimony

    If requested, I am available to testify in court, presenting my findings and providing expert opinions based on the evaluation.

What Is A Forensic Mental Health Evaluation?

A forensic mental health evaluation is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a qualified mental health professional for legal purposes. This objective insight and data can be crucial in legal proceedings. Forensic evaluations may or may not be court ordered, depending on the purpose of the referral.

These evaluations are often sought by attorneys, courts, and other legal entities to apply psychological principles and techniques to address legal questions or concerns related to an individual's mental state and behavior. The evaluation can provide psychological insights that are relevant to a specific legal issue.