Forensic Psychology Therapists in 18062

Photo of Dr. Mike Otto, Licensed Professional Counselor in 18062, PA
Dr. Mike Otto
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Macungie, PA 18062
Telehealth appointments available. Areas of specialty are: anxiety and depression, challenging adolescents (behavior management) and their family systems, insomnia treatment and sleep regulation, and working with young adults adjusting to life transitions. I can work with individuals with drug and alcohol challenges and help support the recovery process. Psychological assessment and recommendations for civil (custody, etc.), criminal (forensic), and diagnostic clarification services are also available. Couples work available through direct clinician referral only. Please check out our website for more information: www.ottopsych.com
Telehealth appointments available. Areas of specialty are: anxiety and depression, challenging adolescents (behavior management) and their family systems, insomnia treatment and sleep regulation, and working with young adults adjusting to life transitions. I can work with individuals with drug and alcohol challenges and help support the recovery process. Psychological assessment and recommendations for civil (custody, etc.), criminal (forensic), and diagnostic clarification services are also available. Couples work available through direct clinician referral only. Please check out our website for more information: www.ottopsych.com
(610) 595-9082 View (610) 595-9082

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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.