Forensic Psychology Therapists in Sacramento, CA

Photo of Janelle Mccoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASOMB
Janelle Mccoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASOMB
Sacramento, CA 95825
My ideal client is someone navigating life after past harmful behaviors, often while involved in the justice system. They are ready to take accountability and explore the roots of their actions. Many have complex histories shaped by trauma, shame, and disconnection. They seek a nonjudgmental space to build insight, emotional regulation, and healthier relationships. I use a strength-based approach grounded in CBT and the Good Lives Model to support lasting, meaningful change.
My ideal client is someone navigating life after past harmful behaviors, often while involved in the justice system. They are ready to take accountability and explore the roots of their actions. Many have complex histories shaped by trauma, shame, and disconnection. They seek a nonjudgmental space to build insight, emotional regulation, and healthier relationships. I use a strength-based approach grounded in CBT and the Good Lives Model to support lasting, meaningful change.
(916) 496-3656 View (916) 496-3656
Photo of Ashley Rieger, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ashley Rieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My clinical philosophy is built on three pillars: choice, change, and hope. Choice is always available, change is always possible, and, without hope, we have nothing. Hope encourages us to keep going. As an attentive and active listener, I pay close attention to details; what's said and what's left unsaid. I weave personality, humor, and life experiences into my approach in order to show you that I am also just a regular, 'ole human. I work hard to ensure we have a strong, trusting relationship so that I am able to offer suggestions, teach you, challenge you, hold you accountable, and cheer with you.
My clinical philosophy is built on three pillars: choice, change, and hope. Choice is always available, change is always possible, and, without hope, we have nothing. Hope encourages us to keep going. As an attentive and active listener, I pay close attention to details; what's said and what's left unsaid. I weave personality, humor, and life experiences into my approach in order to show you that I am also just a regular, 'ole human. I work hard to ensure we have a strong, trusting relationship so that I am able to offer suggestions, teach you, challenge you, hold you accountable, and cheer with you.
(860) 382-4611 View (860) 382-4611
Photo of Scott D. Altamirano (Sacramento), Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Scott D. Altamirano (Sacramento)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
You're in the chaos right now - relationship just ended, porn use spiraling, recovering from a narcissistic ex, or stuck in anxious-avoidant dating patterns. You need someone who gets it and can help you understand why you keep ending up here. I work with people ready to examine the hard stuff: attachment patterns, relationship choices, building real self-worth. I'm passionate about helping people date healthier (learned this the hard way myself). I see therapists needing their own space too. Specialties: sexuality, sex/porn addiction, narcissistic abuse recovery, LGBTQ+ issues, attachment/dating/poly, self-esteem. Ready? Lets talk
You're in the chaos right now - relationship just ended, porn use spiraling, recovering from a narcissistic ex, or stuck in anxious-avoidant dating patterns. You need someone who gets it and can help you understand why you keep ending up here. I work with people ready to examine the hard stuff: attachment patterns, relationship choices, building real self-worth. I'm passionate about helping people date healthier (learned this the hard way myself). I see therapists needing their own space too. Specialties: sexuality, sex/porn addiction, narcissistic abuse recovery, LGBTQ+ issues, attachment/dating/poly, self-esteem. Ready? Lets talk
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Photo of Guy E Washington, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Guy E Washington
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Online Only
Great to meet you! Hello, I'm Dr. Guy Washington, a Licensed Clinical and Forensic Psychologist with multiple years of professional experience, as well as life experience that helps me understand and connect with clients. My goal is to provide user friendly services to clients by engaging them where they are to provide them with life changing coping skills. Special populations include military members/family and veterans of the United States. I am an honorably discharged and retired Army veteran who can relate to the military culture, lifestyle, and way of life. Connecting with America's hero's is a passion of mine.
Great to meet you! Hello, I'm Dr. Guy Washington, a Licensed Clinical and Forensic Psychologist with multiple years of professional experience, as well as life experience that helps me understand and connect with clients. My goal is to provide user friendly services to clients by engaging them where they are to provide them with life changing coping skills. Special populations include military members/family and veterans of the United States. I am an honorably discharged and retired Army veteran who can relate to the military culture, lifestyle, and way of life. Connecting with America's hero's is a passion of mine.
(916) 913-9186 View (916) 913-9186
Photo of Michelle Sum, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Michelle Sum
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Congrats on doing something extremely difficult by reaching out for help. I'm here to support you through whatever internal or external battle you may be facing. No judgment or personal agenda — just a safe space to talk, explore, and get back to feeling like you again. While I tend to rely heavily on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I also recognize that a "one size fits all" is not a realistic way of viewing behavioral change. For this reason, I will adapt my approach to fit the needs of my client. This may include more narrative and processing therapy or motivational interviewing to build motivation for change.
Congrats on doing something extremely difficult by reaching out for help. I'm here to support you through whatever internal or external battle you may be facing. No judgment or personal agenda — just a safe space to talk, explore, and get back to feeling like you again. While I tend to rely heavily on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I also recognize that a "one size fits all" is not a realistic way of viewing behavioral change. For this reason, I will adapt my approach to fit the needs of my client. This may include more narrative and processing therapy or motivational interviewing to build motivation for change.
(341) 208-3542 View (341) 208-3542
Photo of Annelise Scellier, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Annelise Scellier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95827
Waitlist for new clients
You may be here because something feels stuck — life feels heavy or hard, and you’re not at peace with yourself. Old patterns keep resurfacing in your relationships or in how you relate to yourself, despite your efforts to shift them. A part of you may want to understand what’s holding you back from living with greater integrity and authenticity. If you’re longing for insight, healing, and a more aligned way of being, you don’t have to face it alone.
You may be here because something feels stuck — life feels heavy or hard, and you’re not at peace with yourself. Old patterns keep resurfacing in your relationships or in how you relate to yourself, despite your efforts to shift them. A part of you may want to understand what’s holding you back from living with greater integrity and authenticity. If you’re longing for insight, healing, and a more aligned way of being, you don’t have to face it alone.
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Photo of Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Sacramento, CA 95825
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
(916) 269-5660 View (916) 269-5660
Photo of Janet Saravia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Janet Saravia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Online Only
As a therapist, my intention is to create a safe space for clients to feel comfortable to face their life challenges. I want to assure clients that they are able and deserving of healing and achieving their life goals. I am committed to empowering clients to honor themselves and maintain their mental health.
As a therapist, my intention is to create a safe space for clients to feel comfortable to face their life challenges. I want to assure clients that they are able and deserving of healing and achieving their life goals. I am committed to empowering clients to honor themselves and maintain their mental health.
(916) 269-5049 View (916) 269-5049
Photo of Bernie Naranjo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, PsyD
Bernie Naranjo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, PsyD
Sacramento, CA 95825
My ideal clients are individuals navigating life transitions, systemic barriers, emotional distress, or seeking clarity and direction in their lives. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward. Using Integrative Therapy, I help clients identify their strengths, clarify goals, and develop practical steps toward meaningful change. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with Liberation Psychology to recognize how broader systems may impact well-being. Together, we create a collaborative, supportive space focused on resilience, empowerment, and achievable progress.
My ideal clients are individuals navigating life transitions, systemic barriers, emotional distress, or seeking clarity and direction in their lives. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about how to move forward. Using Integrative Therapy, I help clients identify their strengths, clarify goals, and develop practical steps toward meaningful change. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with Liberation Psychology to recognize how broader systems may impact well-being. Together, we create a collaborative, supportive space focused on resilience, empowerment, and achievable progress.
(916) 269-5769 View (916) 269-5769
Photo of Amir Ramezani, Psychologist, PhD
Amir Ramezani
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
As James Baldwin famously said, "not everything that has been faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed unless faced", I also offer you the following poem: "When we feel safe, anything is possible. We become unstoppable. Because we have a firm ground to launch and a safe ground to land. We can then stand. Voice ourselves, show ourselves. Life becomes a dance." With over 15 years of experience carefully providing integrative therapy (e.g., CBT, EMDR, ACT, IFS, EFT, Mindfulness, biofeedback, neurofeedback) and therapeutic assessments, I am excited to work collaboratively with you!
As James Baldwin famously said, "not everything that has been faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed unless faced", I also offer you the following poem: "When we feel safe, anything is possible. We become unstoppable. Because we have a firm ground to launch and a safe ground to land. We can then stand. Voice ourselves, show ourselves. Life becomes a dance." With over 15 years of experience carefully providing integrative therapy (e.g., CBT, EMDR, ACT, IFS, EFT, Mindfulness, biofeedback, neurofeedback) and therapeutic assessments, I am excited to work collaboratively with you!
(916) 963-9398 View (916) 963-9398
Photo of Stephanie Smith, Psychologist, PsyD
Stephanie Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Welcome! I provide psychological assessment for: Autism, Intellectual Ability (or disability), Decision Making Capacity (such as ability to make financial or legal decisions), and Pre-Surgery evaluations for Bariatric Surgery (through a Health at Every Size lens). These assessments can help families and individuals answer important questions about their own or a loved one's abilities or readiness, and complete any needed paperwork. -At this time I am accepting new clients for psychological testing ONLY. (If you have been referred for therapy by an existing client, or you are a former client, we may be able to make an exception).
Welcome! I provide psychological assessment for: Autism, Intellectual Ability (or disability), Decision Making Capacity (such as ability to make financial or legal decisions), and Pre-Surgery evaluations for Bariatric Surgery (through a Health at Every Size lens). These assessments can help families and individuals answer important questions about their own or a loved one's abilities or readiness, and complete any needed paperwork. -At this time I am accepting new clients for psychological testing ONLY. (If you have been referred for therapy by an existing client, or you are a former client, we may be able to make an exception).
(916) 764-3940 View (916) 764-3940
Photo of Caitlyn Paulson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Caitlyn Paulson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My name is Cait Fournier, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals across California via telehealth. I work with individuals and specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and co-occurring disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to manage through the goods and bads of daily life. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, from young adults to seniors. Mental health is a life long condition, just like our physical health, and at various times in our lives, we need support for different issues.
My name is Cait Fournier, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals across California via telehealth. I work with individuals and specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use and co-occurring disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to manage through the goods and bads of daily life. I enjoy working with adults of all ages, from young adults to seniors. Mental health is a life long condition, just like our physical health, and at various times in our lives, we need support for different issues.
(626) 900-0876 View (626) 900-0876
Photo of Monika M Barta, Psychologist, PsyD
Monika M Barta
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
As a clinician practicing an integrated healthcare approach, I believe therapy is not only about helping clients when they are faced with difficult times, but also celebrating their successes, as well as providing maintenance and preventative care. Throughout my career to date I had worked on a wide-variety of issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD and life transitions, among others.
As a clinician practicing an integrated healthcare approach, I believe therapy is not only about helping clients when they are faced with difficult times, but also celebrating their successes, as well as providing maintenance and preventative care. Throughout my career to date I had worked on a wide-variety of issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD and life transitions, among others.
(916) 269-0812 View (916) 269-0812
Photo of Rene' Reis, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rene' Reis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I have been providing therapy for over 20 years with individuals, couples, families and groups. My areas of interest and specialty are developmental, emotional and physical trauma and/or abuse, sexuality and gender identity and grief. My style is to support while challenging people. My passion and mission statement is to validate: emotions, thoughts and behaviors are normal; what we decide to do with these daily experiences is what allows us to be happy and enjoy life and our relationships.
I have been providing therapy for over 20 years with individuals, couples, families and groups. My areas of interest and specialty are developmental, emotional and physical trauma and/or abuse, sexuality and gender identity and grief. My style is to support while challenging people. My passion and mission statement is to validate: emotions, thoughts and behaviors are normal; what we decide to do with these daily experiences is what allows us to be happy and enjoy life and our relationships.
(916) 571-0566 View (916) 571-0566
Photo of Kimberly M. Miller, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Kimberly M. Miller
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
If your child struggles with peers, attention, school, or mood/ anxiety, I can provide a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment to help you learn what is going on and what next steps to take. This assessment answers questions related to concerns for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, or medical conditions. The goal is to figure out how to best support your child! In some cases, your child may already have an IEP or 504, but you feel they are not getting all the support they need or you do not understand the results. In these cases, a comprehensive evaluation may help.
If your child struggles with peers, attention, school, or mood/ anxiety, I can provide a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment to help you learn what is going on and what next steps to take. This assessment answers questions related to concerns for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, or medical conditions. The goal is to figure out how to best support your child! In some cases, your child may already have an IEP or 504, but you feel they are not getting all the support they need or you do not understand the results. In these cases, a comprehensive evaluation may help.
(916) 822-7306 View (916) 822-7306
Photo of Micaela Marie Van Dine, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA
Micaela Marie Van Dine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I am a forensic psychotherapist that works with families involved in custody disputes with a focus on the best interests for children. My focus with all clients is to find solutions to complex issues. My approach is direct and goal oriented. For psychotherapy, I treat individuals, families, and children. I also hold closed support groups for Recovery from Psychological Abuse (specifically narcissistic abuse). I work extensively with individuals going through divorce. I enjoy working with children and teens in treating depression/ anxiety, Trauma, Introversion/social anxiety, peer issues, and parental conflict/divorce.
I am a forensic psychotherapist that works with families involved in custody disputes with a focus on the best interests for children. My focus with all clients is to find solutions to complex issues. My approach is direct and goal oriented. For psychotherapy, I treat individuals, families, and children. I also hold closed support groups for Recovery from Psychological Abuse (specifically narcissistic abuse). I work extensively with individuals going through divorce. I enjoy working with children and teens in treating depression/ anxiety, Trauma, Introversion/social anxiety, peer issues, and parental conflict/divorce.
(916) 507-1817 View (916) 507-1817
Photo of Arielle Grossman - Arielle Grossman LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Arielle Grossman LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
5 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95827
The first step in any journey takes the courage to start. And you already have! You're here. I know there is still a lot of shame around being vulnerable and asking for help. We live in a world that often demands perfection, high expectations, and pushing ourselves to the max. Struggling with depression, anger, or trauma does not make you a failure. It makes you human. I believe we all have the innate ability to heal ourselves, and therapy can support you in finding that clarity and empowerment.
The first step in any journey takes the courage to start. And you already have! You're here. I know there is still a lot of shame around being vulnerable and asking for help. We live in a world that often demands perfection, high expectations, and pushing ourselves to the max. Struggling with depression, anger, or trauma does not make you a failure. It makes you human. I believe we all have the innate ability to heal ourselves, and therapy can support you in finding that clarity and empowerment.
(916) 634-1401 View (916) 634-1401
Photo of Stephanie Espinoza, Psychologist, PsyD
Stephanie Espinoza
Psychologist, PsyD
Sacramento, CA 95811
Wherever you may be in life, my goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space to explore, learn, process, heal, and thrive. I'll help you accept yourself as you are. Be messy, complicated, worried, angry, and show up anyway! I'll help you find the space that feels most comfortable to you no matter what you've been through. We'll clarify your goals and values and look toward a new perspective and healthy narrative, so you can nurture the feelings that are aligned with your well-being and not those that keep you stuck. With commitment and focus, you'll get to a deeper sense of self-compassion and fulfillment.
Wherever you may be in life, my goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive space to explore, learn, process, heal, and thrive. I'll help you accept yourself as you are. Be messy, complicated, worried, angry, and show up anyway! I'll help you find the space that feels most comfortable to you no matter what you've been through. We'll clarify your goals and values and look toward a new perspective and healthy narrative, so you can nurture the feelings that are aligned with your well-being and not those that keep you stuck. With commitment and focus, you'll get to a deeper sense of self-compassion and fulfillment.
(916) 894-8475 View (916) 894-8475
Photo of Teryn Leaper, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Teryn Leaper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Mary's University. I am currently board certified with the BBS in California and BHEC in Texas. I specialize in helping individuals through these difficult transitions, providing a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions and work toward healing. My goal is to help you embrace the changes in your life and empower you to move forward with confidence and clarity. You don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone. Let’s work together to help you navigate your path toward growth and fulfillment.
I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Mary's University. I am currently board certified with the BBS in California and BHEC in Texas. I specialize in helping individuals through these difficult transitions, providing a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions and work toward healing. My goal is to help you embrace the changes in your life and empower you to move forward with confidence and clarity. You don’t have to go through life’s challenges alone. Let’s work together to help you navigate your path toward growth and fulfillment.
(855) 550-6463 View (855) 550-6463
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Sacramento, CA 95814
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct legal / forensic / psychological evaluations for court and provide expert witness testimony. I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct legal / forensic / psychological evaluations for court and provide expert witness testimony. I also do ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic evaluations, risk assessment (violence/sexual), drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness-for-duty evaluations, immigration evaluations, pre-adoption evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(707) 210-0533 View (707) 210-0533

See more therapy options for Sacramento

Forensic Psychology Therapists
How does forensic psychology work?
Forensic psychology works by providing those in the legal system with expert information about psychology and behavior that they wouldn’t otherwise have. Forensic psychologists do this through a range of services—conducting psychological assessments for court cases, assisting police officers with investigations, providing expert opinion, helping with mediation, and providing mental health care to victims or perpetrators of crimes.

Can a forensic psychologist help with child custody cases?
Yes. In the event that it’s needed, an attorney or judge may appoint a forensic psychologist to provide an assessment and recommendation. This process involves multiple interviews with the child, the parent (or parents), and sometimes others. The psychologist assesses the parent’s mental health, strengths and weaknesses, and parenting practices to understand what’s in the child’s best interest. They then complete a report with recommendations based on their assessment.

Do forensic psychologists help solve crimes?
In some cases they do. For example, criminal profiling involves collaborating with law enforcement officers to construct a profile of a perpetrator based on psychology, personality, and behavior as suggested by the crime in order to focus the investigation. They may also offer expert input on subjects related to a case such as deception, false confessions, and the reliability of testimony based on eyewitness accounts.

How long do people typically work with a forensic psychologist?
The length of time an individual works with a forensic psychologist depends on the relevant service. For example, if a forensic psychologist is conducting a psychological assessment for a court case, this may take one to two sessions to complete (although they can be more extensive). If the forensic psychologist is providing therapy to someone accused or convicted of a crime, treatment may last for several months or more.