Forensic Psychologist

We are seeking an experienced Forensic Psychologist to provide forensic services and evaluations to individuals with mental illness and substance abuse who are involved with the courts and the criminal justice system, or who require risk assessments.

About the role

This position is assigned through Central Office, working primarily at Brockton District and Superior Court and Stoughton District Court in the Southeast Area. The Forensic Psychologist may need to cover cases in other courts within the Southeast Area or outside of the area as assigned and will also participate in covering cases on the statewide remote service.

Responsibilities

• Provide timely court, community, and hospital-based evaluations for competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility, pursuant to MGL c.123, including:
  • Sec. 15(a), (b), and Sec. 15(f) (competency and criminal responsibility)
  • Sec. 15(e) (aid in sentencing)
  • Sec. 12(e) (Warrants of Apprehension for commitment of a mentally ill person)
  • Sec. 16(a) (commitment for observation and evaluation)
  • Sec. 16(b/c) (commitment)
  • Sec. 18 (hospitalizations of mentally ill prisoners)
  • Sec. 19 (determination of mental condition of parties or witnesses)
  • Sec. 35 (evaluations of the commitment of an alcoholic)
• Conduct Forensic Risk Assessments as requested by DMH Forensic Mental Health Services at inpatient facilities or in community settings, including:
  • Meeting with patients and their treatment teams
  • Reviewing patient records
  • Making recommendations concerning inpatient privileges and/or community or inpatient treatment planning
• Provide testimony as an expert witness in court, in conjunction with evaluations conducted.
• Provide consultation to the court, probation staff, and community providers (e.g., mental health agencies, DCF, DYS, DDS, schools, residential programs) regarding mental status and/or dispositional questions.
• Establish and maintain working relationships with external agencies and maintain knowledge of DMH priority populations and available services.
• Conduct psychological evaluations and testing using generally accepted, reliable, and valid assessment instruments.
• Complete data collection forms as required by the Department of Mental Health.
• Maintain current knowledge of developments, trends, policies, and procedures in mental health treatment and substance abuse services through continuing education.
• Provide clinical consultation on problematic cases and review/feedback on other team members’ evaluations.
• Participate in committees, training, and supervision as requested.

Requirements

• Doctorate in Psychology from a school accredited by the American Psychological Association.
• At least three years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) professional experience as a Licensed Psychologist, including at least one year of supervising Post-doctoral Psychologists-in-training and/or Psychological Assistants.
• Current and valid registration as a Psychologist by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Psychology.
• Eligibility to become a Designated Forensic Psychologist within one year of hire (104 CMR 33.04(3)(b)).
• Considerable knowledge of types and symptoms of mental, emotional, and substance abuse disorders.
• Ability to:
  • Recognize symptoms of mental, emotional, and substance abuse disorders
  • Interact with individuals experiencing varying levels of distress and dysfunction
  • Analyze psychological data, draw conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations
  • Complete high-quality written forensic reports and evaluations
• Knowledge of behavioral techniques, theories of psychotherapy and counseling, and current treatment approaches for serious mental illnesses, including severe personality disorders.
• Based on assignment, travel may be required. A valid Massachusetts Motor Vehicle Operator's license (or equivalent from another state) is required if using a motor vehicle for travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to work under time pressure, manage multiple tasks, and produce high-quality reports according to standards.
• Appointment as a designated forensic psychologist or eligibility to become one within one year of hire.
• Knowledge of human services and criminal justice systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse constituents.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Bilingual or multilingual fluency.

Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package, including:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plans
• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)
• Flexible spending accounts
• Life and disability insurance
• Professional development and training opportunities

First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days. A criminal background check and verification of education, licensure, and certifications will be completed prior to hire.