Forensic Psychology Therapists in Vista, CA

Photo of Ida Babakhanyan - Aether Brain Health, Psychologist, PhD
Aether Brain Health
Psychologist, PhD
Vista, CA 92081
Many individuals seek support when they notice changes in memory, attention, concentration, mood, or overall cognitive functioning. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist providing neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive assessment, and therapy for individuals experiencing difficulties related to concussion, traumatic brain injury, stress, trauma, and complex neurological or psychological symptoms. Through careful evaluation, we work to clarify how the brain and emotional health are interacting and identify practical strategies that support recovery, resilience, and long-term brain health.
Many individuals seek support when they notice changes in memory, attention, concentration, mood, or overall cognitive functioning. I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist providing neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive assessment, and therapy for individuals experiencing difficulties related to concussion, traumatic brain injury, stress, trauma, and complex neurological or psychological symptoms. Through careful evaluation, we work to clarify how the brain and emotional health are interacting and identify practical strategies that support recovery, resilience, and long-term brain health.
(760) 359-9588 View (760) 359-9588
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
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.
(760) 614-8610 View (760) 614-8610
Photo of John McDowell, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ICADC, CADC II, MATC
John McDowell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ICADC, CADC II, MATC
Serves Area
Addiction - are you involved in a Court case, Family or Criminal? Drugs & Alcohol addiction destroys lives, creates shame, fear and confusion. I am in recovery & am a Court Approved Provider, I can help you with Court appointed Programs, education including Anger Management and out of state services. Provide Addiction Assessments, & many Court services. We provide unique, individual attention. DMV, DUI & Interventions- we understand the System. Working weekends and nights. Can come to you if needed. Recovery Coaching and training offered.
Addiction - are you involved in a Court case, Family or Criminal? Drugs & Alcohol addiction destroys lives, creates shame, fear and confusion. I am in recovery & am a Court Approved Provider, I can help you with Court appointed Programs, education including Anger Management and out of state services. Provide Addiction Assessments, & many Court services. We provide unique, individual attention. DMV, DUI & Interventions- we understand the System. Working weekends and nights. Can come to you if needed. Recovery Coaching and training offered.
(442) 233-3632 View (442) 233-3632
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, 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 ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
(760) 466-4186 View (760) 466-4186
Photo of Araceli Ramos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Araceli Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years, and I specialize in CBT, trauma-informed care, anxiety, depression, Mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. I incorporate solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy, CBT, and focus on meeting clients where they are to support goals. I work with adolescents, male or female adults, or the elderly who have experienced trauma, anxiety, or depression. I am compassionate, empathetic, patient, and kind. I love supporting people, assisting with moving through issues, and developing healthy coping skills.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years, and I specialize in CBT, trauma-informed care, anxiety, depression, Mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. I incorporate solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, narrative therapy, CBT, and focus on meeting clients where they are to support goals. I work with adolescents, male or female adults, or the elderly who have experienced trauma, anxiety, or depression. I am compassionate, empathetic, patient, and kind. I love supporting people, assisting with moving through issues, and developing healthy coping skills.
(949) 776-9554 View (949) 776-9554
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
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.
(760) 823-9404 View (760) 823-9404

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sean Hodges - alo·ha psych , Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW
alo·ha psych
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW
San Diego, CA 92108
We are inspired by the “aloha spirit,” drawing on Hawaiian concepts like ‘alo’ (presence), ‘ha’ (breath of life), ‘mana’ (healing energy), and ‘ohana’ (family and connectedness) to guide compassionate, collaborative care to individuals, families, and couples. We offer services in a variety of settings including offices, hospitals, primary care facilities, treatment centers, and telehealth to ensure accessible, continuous care for all. We provide comprehensive behavioral healthcare services in California and Hawaii.
We are inspired by the “aloha spirit,” drawing on Hawaiian concepts like ‘alo’ (presence), ‘ha’ (breath of life), ‘mana’ (healing energy), and ‘ohana’ (family and connectedness) to guide compassionate, collaborative care to individuals, families, and couples. We offer services in a variety of settings including offices, hospitals, primary care facilities, treatment centers, and telehealth to ensure accessible, continuous care for all. We provide comprehensive behavioral healthcare services in California and Hawaii.
(619) 914-6628 View (619) 914-6628
Photo of Michelle Koehler, Psychologist, PYSD
Michelle Koehler
Psychologist, PYSD
Online Only
I then received my master's and doctorate in Clinical Forensic Psychology at Alliant International University.
Sometimes life knocks you down and you need help getting back on your feet. Let’s do this together! Hi, my name is Dr. Koehler. I could talk about my degrees and experience, but what is most important for you to know is that I’m here to listen and help you get through tough times. I use a client-centered approach, meaning that I tailor our sessions to be what you need. I believe that the therapist-client bond is vital to be successful in therapy. If we are a good fit, that’s great and I can’t wait to work with you!
I then received my master's and doctorate in Clinical Forensic Psychology at Alliant International University.
Sometimes life knocks you down and you need help getting back on your feet. Let’s do this together! Hi, my name is Dr. Koehler. I could talk about my degrees and experience, but what is most important for you to know is that I’m here to listen and help you get through tough times. I use a client-centered approach, meaning that I tailor our sessions to be what you need. I believe that the therapist-client bond is vital to be successful in therapy. If we are a good fit, that’s great and I can’t wait to work with you!
(661) 490-9061 View (661) 490-9061
Photo of Dr. Kaycee Fortanasce - N.E.S.T. Psychology Assess, Treat, Grow, Inc., Psychologist, PsyD
Feeling alone and isolated in your experience? PTSD and Chronic Pain can contribute to these emotions. Wondering if there are conditions that you may have, a family history of, life changing events may have impacted you where you do not feel like yourself? Psychological Assessments and Neurocognitive testing are available. Behavioral Health offered. If you have a chronic illness, TBI, other medical diagnosis that have manifested new psychological symptoms you did not experience before? It is normal, but testing can put your mind at ease and stop the guessing. Evidence-based treatment, Person-Centered, Solution Focused Treatment.
Feeling alone and isolated in your experience? PTSD and Chronic Pain can contribute to these emotions. Wondering if there are conditions that you may have, a family history of, life changing events may have impacted you where you do not feel like yourself? Psychological Assessments and Neurocognitive testing are available. Behavioral Health offered. If you have a chronic illness, TBI, other medical diagnosis that have manifested new psychological symptoms you did not experience before? It is normal, but testing can put your mind at ease and stop the guessing. Evidence-based treatment, Person-Centered, Solution Focused Treatment.
(949) 676-3732 View (949) 676-3732
Photo of Juliana Caro - FIRE Igniting Lives, Psychologist, MA, PsyD
FIRE Igniting Lives
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Escondido, CA 92025
I hope to cultivate a collaborative, safe, and compassionate environment that promotes healing and facilitates navigation through what life may bring. Our complex experiences influence how we move through life, including how we maneuver its stressors and challenges. I use an integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) approaches combined with additional evidence-based modalities, to collaboratively explore, grow, and work towards a life worth living for you.
I hope to cultivate a collaborative, safe, and compassionate environment that promotes healing and facilitates navigation through what life may bring. Our complex experiences influence how we move through life, including how we maneuver its stressors and challenges. I use an integration of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) approaches combined with additional evidence-based modalities, to collaboratively explore, grow, and work towards a life worth living for you.
(760) 983-7925 View (760) 983-7925
Photo of Lawrence T Woodburn, Psychologist, PhD
Lawrence T Woodburn
Psychologist, PhD
Carlsbad, CA 92008
We specialize in clinical, organizational and forensic psychology including hypnosis, trauma and psychological evaluations.
We believe that therapy is an opportunity for enhancing the functioning of individuals and families because everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. We are sensitive to our diverse community and strive to honor everyone’s beliefs and cultural values offering services tailored to meet the needs of our clients.
We specialize in clinical, organizational and forensic psychology including hypnosis, trauma and psychological evaluations.
We believe that therapy is an opportunity for enhancing the functioning of individuals and families because everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. We are sensitive to our diverse community and strive to honor everyone’s beliefs and cultural values offering services tailored to meet the needs of our clients.
(619) 771-0509 View (619) 771-0509
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, broken relationships, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, financial recklessness, and gambling. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, broken relationships, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, financial recklessness, and gambling. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(858) 704-2349 View (858) 704-2349
Photo of Heather Williams - Premier 1st Responder Psychological Services Inc., Psychologist, PsyD, EMDR
Your wellness is our priority! We are a culturally competent counseling corporation specializing in first responder and family support. With decades of collective experience, we are dedicated to helping individuals navigate career and life transitions. Our team is trained in effective, evidence-based treatment methods with a holistic approach. We aim to help you break free from unwanted patterns, improve struggling relationships, and address family challenges, anxiety, addiction, depression, and trauma recovery. We are EMDR trained and practice with professionalism, compassion, and commitment.
Your wellness is our priority! We are a culturally competent counseling corporation specializing in first responder and family support. With decades of collective experience, we are dedicated to helping individuals navigate career and life transitions. Our team is trained in effective, evidence-based treatment methods with a holistic approach. We aim to help you break free from unwanted patterns, improve struggling relationships, and address family challenges, anxiety, addiction, depression, and trauma recovery. We are EMDR trained and practice with professionalism, compassion, and commitment.
(760) 509-8274 View (760) 509-8274
Photo of melissa erb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
melissa erb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Melissa Erb, PsyD Candidate, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, and a current Clinical Psychology doctoral candidate specializing in neuropsychology. I provide therapy to clients statewide through telehealth, working with adults and adolescents who are managing anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Using Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps me meet clients where they are at, creating an approach that allows you to begin at a pace that feels comfortable.
My name is Melissa Erb, PsyD Candidate, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California, and a current Clinical Psychology doctoral candidate specializing in neuropsychology. I provide therapy to clients statewide through telehealth, working with adults and adolescents who are managing anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Using Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps me meet clients where they are at, creating an approach that allows you to begin at a pace that feels comfortable.
(858) 808-2081 View (858) 808-2081
Photo of Shannon Lerach - Shannon Lerach, Ph.D., Inc., A Psychological Corp, Psychologist, PhD
I am a trauma-specialist working with a range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, family counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. Working in a wide variety of settings has allowed me to cultivate my clinical skills and versatility in the following areas. Treatment specialization includes: Abuse & Trauma Recovery, EMDR (EMDRIA Certified), EMDR with Children & Adolescents, Registered Play Therapist, Therapy for Depression, Anxiety & Mood disorders, Grief & Loss Counseling, Blended Families & Divorce, Child Custody Evaluations, Parent Mediation, Co-parenting Facilitation & Reunification Therapy.
I am a trauma-specialist working with a range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that span from therapy for depression and grief counseling to parenting support, family counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients individual needs. Working in a wide variety of settings has allowed me to cultivate my clinical skills and versatility in the following areas. Treatment specialization includes: Abuse & Trauma Recovery, EMDR (EMDRIA Certified), EMDR with Children & Adolescents, Registered Play Therapist, Therapy for Depression, Anxiety & Mood disorders, Grief & Loss Counseling, Blended Families & Divorce, Child Custody Evaluations, Parent Mediation, Co-parenting Facilitation & Reunification Therapy.
(619) 452-1994 View (619) 452-1994
Photo of Shauna Keller, Psychologist, PsyD
Shauna Keller
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92172
Currently, I am only accepting new clients for forensic and clinical psychological evaluations. I work with attorneys whose clients are in custody, or otherwise engaged with the legal system providing both evaluations and consultation. Types of evaluations include, but are not limited to, sex offender and general risk assessments, mitigation at sentencing circumstances, and other mental health referral questions for individuals involved with the justice system. I approach psychological evaluations as a collaborative process utilizing multiple sources of information to obtain a thorough understanding of the client being evaluated.
Currently, I am only accepting new clients for forensic and clinical psychological evaluations. I work with attorneys whose clients are in custody, or otherwise engaged with the legal system providing both evaluations and consultation. Types of evaluations include, but are not limited to, sex offender and general risk assessments, mitigation at sentencing circumstances, and other mental health referral questions for individuals involved with the justice system. I approach psychological evaluations as a collaborative process utilizing multiple sources of information to obtain a thorough understanding of the client being evaluated.
(703) 372-9592 View (703) 372-9592
Photo of Preston Sims, Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Preston Sims
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Solana Beach, CA 92075
I can help because I have over 25 years of experience in psychology but more than twice that as a caring human being striving to find my own way. I've worked in psychiatric hospitals, in prisons and in private practice, with people with all kinds of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety and Schizophrenia. Equally important than any experience I might bring to the therapy session, I bring compassion, empathy and an understanding that we're all just doing the best we can.
I can help because I have over 25 years of experience in psychology but more than twice that as a caring human being striving to find my own way. I've worked in psychiatric hospitals, in prisons and in private practice, with people with all kinds of psychological difficulties including depression, anxiety and Schizophrenia. Equally important than any experience I might bring to the therapy session, I bring compassion, empathy and an understanding that we're all just doing the best we can.
(619) 304-9224 View (619) 304-9224
Photo of Melissa Jones, Psychologist, PsyD
Melissa Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I’m Dr. Melissa Jones, a licensed psychologist providing teletherapy to clients throughout CA. I have been practicing for 8 years. Much of my training and experience has been working with adults (18+) who have struggled with hallucinations, delusions, substance misuse/addiction, stress, and/or mood episodes or symptoms such as mania, depression, and/or anxiety.
I’m Dr. Melissa Jones, a licensed psychologist providing teletherapy to clients throughout CA. I have been practicing for 8 years. Much of my training and experience has been working with adults (18+) who have struggled with hallucinations, delusions, substance misuse/addiction, stress, and/or mood episodes or symptoms such as mania, depression, and/or anxiety.
(562) 554-5199 View (562) 554-5199
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean, Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Psychological Evaluations for Court - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Serves Area
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.
(949) 779-6944 View (949) 779-6944
Photo of Sabrina Meek, Psychologist, PhD
Sabrina Meek
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
My name is Sabrina. I'm a Clinical Psychologist with emphasis in Depth Psychology. What is depth psychology? It’s the deep dark scary stuff we instinctively repress at the first sight of change-a job, relationship, a dream, a virus. Transition and change suck! But, no darkness is too dark, no fear is too crippling, because growth is part of human life. Don't despair alone.
My name is Sabrina. I'm a Clinical Psychologist with emphasis in Depth Psychology. What is depth psychology? It’s the deep dark scary stuff we instinctively repress at the first sight of change-a job, relationship, a dream, a virus. Transition and change suck! But, no darkness is too dark, no fear is too crippling, because growth is part of human life. Don't despair alone.
(661) 218-1482 View (661) 218-1482

See more therapy options for Vista

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.