1

Forensic Social Work Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, physicians, and other health ... Work Environment State-operated hospital setting with adult psychiatric and forensic patients.

Expert knowledge of Forensic statutes, Medicare/Medicaid/Joint Commission standards and ... Master's Degree in a core behavioral health discipline(e.g., Social Work, Mental Health Counseling ...

Expert knowledge of Forensic statutes, Medicare/Medicaid/Joint Commission standards and ... Master's Degree in a core behavioral health discipline(e.g., Social Work, Mental Health Counseling ...

Expert knowledge of Forensic statutes, Medicare/Medicaid/Joint Commission standards and ... Master's Degree in a core behavioral health discipline(e.g., Social Work, Mental Health Counseling ...

Clinical Director

Richmond, IN · On-site

$71K/yr

Expert knowledge of Forensic statutes, Medicare/Medicaid/Joint Commission standards and ... Master's Degree in a core behavioral health discipline(e.g., Social Work, Mental Health Counseling ...

Sr Quality Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$84K - $114K/yr

For more information, visit corporate.carrier.com or follow on Carrier social media at @Carrier ... Conduct hands-on forensic evaluations of field warranty returns to isolate failure modes. Oversee ...

Forensic Social Work information

See Indiana salary details

$39K

$83.6K

$130.4K

How much do forensic social work jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic social work in Indiana is $83,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Forensic Social Work vs Clinical Social Work?

AspectForensic Social WorkClinical Social Work
Required CredentialsMaster's in Social Work (MSW), licensure, often specialized training in forensic settingsMaster's in Social Work (MSW), licensure, clinical training
Work EnvironmentCourts, correctional facilities, forensic hospitals, legal settingsHospitals, mental health clinics, private practices
Employer & IndustryLegal system, criminal justice, forensic agenciesHealthcare, mental health services, community agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Forensic Social Work focuses on legal and criminal justice settings, often involving assessments for courts or correctional facilities. Clinical Social Work emphasizes mental health treatment in healthcare or community settings. While both require an MSW and licensure, their work environments and client populations differ significantly.

How does a forensic social worker typically collaborate with legal professionals and other multidisciplinary teams?

Forensic social workers frequently work alongside attorneys, law enforcement, psychologists, and court personnel to provide comprehensive assessments and recommendations. They may conduct client interviews, prepare written reports, and offer expert testimony in court. Effective collaboration requires strong communication skills, the ability to maintain professional boundaries, and an understanding of both social work ethics and legal procedures. This teamwork ensures that clients’ psychosocial needs are considered within legal contexts, contributing to fairer and more informed outcomes.

What is the highest paid social work job?

In social work, forensic social workers and clinical social workers with advanced licenses and specialized expertise tend to have the highest salaries. Senior roles in healthcare, mental health, or government agencies often offer higher compensation, especially for those with extensive experience and certifications such as LCSW or ACSW.

How hard is it to become a Forensic Social Worker?

Becoming a forensic social worker typically requires earning a master's degree in social work (MSW), gaining relevant experience in social services or mental health, and obtaining licensure or certification as required by the state. Additional training in forensic methods and knowledge of the legal system can enhance job prospects, but the pathway involves standard educational and professional steps similar to other social work careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Social Worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Social Worker, you need a solid background in social work, a master's degree in social work (MSW), and state licensure, along with specialized knowledge of the legal and criminal justice systems. Familiarity with case management software, court documentation processes, and risk assessment tools is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and the ability to remain objective under pressure help professionals excel in this role. These skills are essential for advocating effectively for clients, navigating complex legal contexts, and ensuring ethical, evidence-based interventions.

What is forensic social work?

Forensic social work is a specialized field of social work that deals with the intersection of social work and legal systems. Forensic social workers provide services such as assessments, expert testimony, counseling, and case management for individuals involved in legal matters, including criminal, civil, and family courts. They may work with victims, offenders, families, or organizations to address issues like child custody, mental health evaluations, and rehabilitation. Their expertise helps inform legal decisions and promotes social justice within the legal system.

Can you make $200,000 as a social worker?

Forensic social workers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized certifications can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $200,000, especially in high-cost areas or with supervisory roles. However, most social workers earn less, with median salaries typically ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and level of experience.

What can you do as a Forensic Social Worker?

A forensic social worker evaluates individuals involved in legal cases, providing assessments related to mental health, competency, and risk. They often work in criminal, juvenile, or family courts, collaborating with legal professionals and using skills in interviewing, report writing, and case management. Certification or training in forensic practice can enhance their effectiveness in this specialized field.
What are popular job titles related to Forensic Social Work jobs in Indiana? For Forensic Social Work jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Forensic Social Work jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Social Work jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Forensic Social Work jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Forensic Social Work job openings:
Infographic showing various Forensic Social Work job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,620 per year, or $40.2 per hour.
Counselor (unlicensed) - juvenile justice setting

Counselor (unlicensed) - juvenile justice setting

Liberty Healthcare Corporation

Pendleton, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

If you have a bachelor's or master's degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related human services field and have an interest in counseling youth - you are encouraged to consider a full-time Counselor 2 position with Liberty Healthcare and the Indiana Sexual Offender Management and Monitoring program.
The mission of the program is to promote public safety by reducing recidivism in convicted adult and adjudicated juvenile sexual offenders.
As a Counselor 2 with Liberty, you will have the opportunity to help a significant number of juveniles improve their behavioral health, prevent sexual abuse and victimization, and enhance safety in your community.
Your day-to-day work will involve providing in-person behavioral health services to adjudicated juvenile sex offenders onsite at the Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility located in Pendleton, IN.
Specific responsibilities include:
  • Developing proficiency with the program's curriculum on the prevention of sexual abuse
  • Facilitating counseling and psycho-educational group sessions, based on the program's curriculum
  • Providing clients with information about the program - individually and in groups
  • Monitoring client progress
  • Reviewing client files, documenting client progress notes, and writing reports
  • Participating in staff meetings, case conferences, and training activities

As a full-time employee of Liberty, you can expect:
  • Starting salary commensurate with the responsibilities and requirements of this position
  • Ongoing training specific to the field of sex offender treatment
  • Health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance and disability insurance
  • 30 days of paid time off each year for holidays, vacation, personal and sick leave
  • FSA, 401k plan, and other perks

Details on Liberty's benefits plan available at
You will work a 4-day work week with the option of working either Monday through Thursday or Tuesday through Friday with set hours from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
You will receive structured and on the job training related to the prevention of sexual abuse and work alongside a team of experienced behavioral health professionals.
Skills & Requirements
What we're looking for
  • Bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, school counseling or a related human services field
  • At least one year of experience counseling youth or people who are justice involved
  • Solid public speaking and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to effectively counsel and educate juveniles on the topics of sexual abuse and prosocial behavior

Individuals who have a master's degree or are pursuing a master's degree and professional licensure in clinical social work, counseling, psychology, or marriage and family therapy are encouraged to apply and will be considered for this position and also for future opportunities for licensed counselor roles.
About the program and Liberty Healthcare
The Indiana Sex Offender Management and Monitoring Program is an innovative program and collaborative effort between the Indiana Department of Correction and Liberty Healthcare - an organization nationally recognized for providing high quality forensic mental health and community-based case management and monitoring services.
Additional program details are available at
Liberty Healthcare is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our organization is composed of, and proudly serves, people of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
If you're ready to make a difference in the lives of juveniles and impact community safety - click apply and submit your resume for immediate consideration.