Forensic
Mental Health
Evaluations
What I Can Offer As a Forensic Mental Health Expert
Forensic mental health evaluation services play a crucial role in the legal system, providing objective assessments and expert opinions that can significantly impact the outcome of legal cases. I bring years of experience in clinical psychology to the table, which allows me to offer insightful and reliable evaluations that are grounded in both empirical evidence and a deep understanding of human behavior.
My forensic approach is designed to maintain objectivity and provide comprehensive insights. I tailor evaluations to the unique requirements of each individual client and their specific case. My goal is to leverage my expertise in psychology to offer the legal system crucial insights into an individual's mental state. I am deeply aware of the significant impact these evaluations can have on legal outcomes. Therefore, I remain focused on adhering to high ethical standards, ensuring competency, and maintaining the validity and reliability of my assessments.
My focus areas are within civil and criminal cases and can provide focus on multiple areas of assessment. The focus will depend on the legal question at hand, but can include assessing:
mental disorders: I offer expert opinions on how psychological conditions may have influenced behavior at the time of the offense. I can also provide insight into an individuals present psychological functioning.
chemical abuse and dependency*: I assess to discern if an individual does or does not have a substance use disorder.
personal/psychological injury: I assess the psychological impact of injuries to support claims of emotional distress or trauma.
All evaluations are concluded with a comprehensive report. My reports are written in clear, accessible language, avoiding unnecessary jargon, so that all parties involved can easily understand the findings.
Ultimately, my forensic evaluation services aim to provide clarity and support justice by presenting well-rounded, compassionate, and fact-based psychological insights.
Being licensed in both North and South Carolina allows the flexibility for me to offer my services in both states.
* please note, I am not an authorized DWI provider through the State for their mandated substance use assessments.
Consultations are reserved for forensic evaluations.
What To Expect
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Referral and Initial Consultation
An initial consultation is scheduled to discuss the case, goals, and any specific issues that need addressing.
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Assessment and Data Collection
Information is gathered through interviews, standardized tests, records review, and collateral resources.
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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.
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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.