Forensics
Forensic psychologists typically provide reports and testimony in legal situations about an individual’s psychological functioning. They address their opinions and recommendations to the inquired psycho-legal issues. Dr. Wierzchowski has specialized training in neuropsychology as well as forensic psychology that allows her to apply the research and understanding of brain-behavior relationships to answer specific legal questions.
The following forensic services are available at Provision Assessment & Psychotherapy:
Forensic Psychological Evaluations
A forensic psychological assessment is the point of intersection between psychology and law that aims to address specific legal questions. Broadly, a forensic psychological assessment often includes an evaluation of an individual’s past and present psychological functioning as well as predictions about their future psychological health and related needs. It generally consists of a thorough developmental and clinical interview, comprehensive review of records, case law, collateral data, psychological or neuropsychological battery, summary of findings, and diagnostic impressions (if any). Referrals may be requested in the context of criminal or civil proceedings.
Expert or Fact Testimony
Rendering opinions and providing testimony about an individual facing litigation can range widely across clinical, cognitive, developmental, industrial-organizational, biological, and social psychological topics. Psychologists can provide information on, but not limited to, psychopathology, criminal responsibility, legal causation, proximate cause, trial competence, testamentary capacity, and the relative merits of parenting arrangements. It is equally important to confirm the psychologist’s competency of the issue wishing to be addressed. Dr. Wierzchowski has diverse psychological experiences across a multitude of settings, making her a viable candidate for expert testimony. She has experience serving as an expert witness for matters across the lifespan.
Fact witnesses have personally worked with the party involved in the legal matter (e.g., therapy or evaluation) and have knowledge of the circumstances and events of the case. They are called upon only to verify facts pertinent to the case. Fact witnesses can generally speak to reported history or other statements, mental status, treatment, diagnosis, progress, and prognosis. If Dr. Wierzchowski has previously worked with you in a civil manner and circumstances have escalated to a legal matter, it is possible she could provide support to your case as a fact witness.
Risk Assessments
Forensic risk assessments also commonly referred as violence risk assessments attempt to predict the likelihood that an individual will commit a violent or anti-social act. Generally, a risk assessment has been ordered by the court. Please contact Dr. Wierzchowski if this matter pertains to you or your client.
Personal Injury Cases
Personal injury and emotional distress claims are civil court matters in which psychologists may become involved in several ways. A claim of psychological injury or emotional distress resulting from the intentional or reckless action(s) of another has generally been set forthDr. Wierzchowski can perform an evaluation to assess for the support or refute of the claim.
Child Custody Evaluations
Forensic psychologists are required to undergo additional training in order to provide child custody evaluations. Dr. Wierzchowski works closely with a team of psychologists highly trained in providing thorough child custody evaluations. Please contact Dr. Wierzchowski for more information regarding family law cases.
Consultation and Second Opinions
Dr. Wierzchowski is trained to conduct a record review or provide consultation and opinions that do not warrant a psychological assessment. Dr. Wierzchowski will examine and identify the sources of information on which other professionals are basing their opinions and recommendations, including any substantial limitations to their opinions and recommendations.
