Forensic psychological consultation.

Forensic psychology is a distinct area of research and practice within which psychological knowledge is applied to the justice system and offending or problematic interpersonal behaviour that causes concern and places the community at risk.

The extensive training and advanced qualifications of forensic psychologists is recognised by Area of Practice Endorsement in Forensic Psychology, in addition to General Registration as a Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Services and referrals

Forensic psychological consultation and assessment may be sought to provide opinion and recommendations in relation to:

  • Sentencing considerations (i.e., pre-sentence report to the Court, including the likely impact of a sentence on mental health)

  • Problem/Offending behaviour risk assessment

  • Psychological functioning (i.e., mental state, personality and substance use)

  • Criminogenic needs assessment (i.e., psycho-social functioning and responsivity to intervention and treatment)

  • Risk management

  • Psychological formulation and conceptualisation

Find out more.

  • Risk assessment refers to determining an individual’s level of risk of harmful behaviour and involves identifying relevant historical and dynamic risk factors. The assessment process includes review of referral information, a clinical interview and completion of psychological/risk measures.

    A risk assessment and report may be prepared in relation to the following problem behaviours:

    • Violence

    • Stalking

    • Harmful sexual behaviour

    • Firesetting

    • General offending

  • Interviews may be completed in person or by telehealth (inc. in custody). The duration of the interview may be, more or less, three hours. A follow-up appointment will be arranged in instances where an extended interview is required. The interview involves obtaining information pertaining to developmental/historical and current functioning. Psychological measures may be used.

    Please advise if literacy is limited and/or if interpretative services are required.

  • There is limited availability for forensic treatment in instances where there are clinical needs and engagement with specialist forensic services has ended or is not suitable.

  • The fee for assessment and report preparation begins at $2500 + GST and increases according to case complexity, time taken for completion (i.e., review of referral information, interview and report writing), as well as the urgency of a request.

    Consultations are by appointment only. A 50 minute consultation is $280.