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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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Aug 18, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic social worker?

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.

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 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.

What do you do as a forensic social worker?

A forensic social worker evaluates individuals involved in legal cases, providing assessments related to mental health, risk, and social history. They often work with courts, attorneys, and mental health professionals, using interview skills and documentation to inform legal decisions. The role may require knowledge of legal procedures and relevant certifications or licenses.

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 August 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.

Forensic Clinician

St. Joseph County, IN

South Bend, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

POSITION: Forensic Clinician

DEPARTMENT: Juvenile Justice Center

JOB CATEGORY: SO (Special Occupation)

SALARY: Up to $71,786 based on qualifications

STATUS: Full-time

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

DATES: Until filled

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function. The requirements listed in this document are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required. St. Joseph County provides reasonable accommodations to qualified employees and applicants with known disabilities who require accommodation to complete the application process or perform essential functions of the job unless those accommodations would present an undue hardship.

Incumbent serves as a Forensic Clinician (FC) for the Mental Health/Social Service Department of the St. Joseph Probate Court/Juvenile Justice Center, and is responsible for providing assistance in meeting the mental and emotional needs of youth within the court system. The incumbent will possess the ability to perform any tasks necessary and requested for the overall operation of the agency.

Benefits

Affordable Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans

Paid Time Off (PTO) with generous accruals

Employer Paid Life Insurance coverage

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care

Gym Membership Discounts to encourage wellness

Employer-Funded PERF (Public Employees' Retirement Fund)

Access to additional voluntary benefits and resources

Responsibilities

  • Administer and score assessment tools. (Note: An incumbent with a Master degree in Psychology and psychometric experience will be asked by the Psychologist to administer psychological testing.)
  • Conduct Mental Health Intake Interviews and Assessments, with appropriate same day documentation, as assigned
  • Develop treatment plans and care plans, as assigned
  • Provide follow-up contact with residents, with appropriate and same day documentation, as assigned
  • Develop therapeutic groups as assigned. Topics may include pro-social skills, substance abuse, life skills, parenting, etc.
  • Facilitate group and family therapy, with same day documentation, as assigned
  • Provide consultation to probation officers
  • Attend meetings as assigned

Qualifications

  • Working knowledge of criminogenic causes of delinquent behavior
  • Must be capable of writing individual treatment plans
  • Adept at handling crisis situations
  • Knowledge of risk and need assessments
  • Working knowledge of the DSM 5 and its application within a juvenile justice setting

Education/Experience

  • Must hold a Masters Degree or higher in Social Work, Psychology or Counseling from an accredited university.
  • Possess current HSPP, LCSW, or LMHC in the state of Indiana or in the process of attaining licensure.
  • Experience in working with children, youth and families preferred. Excellent assessment skills required.

Physical Requirements

Duties will take place within the St. Joseph County Probate Court/Juvenile Justice Center. Some responsibilities will take place within the locked and secured Detention area. Youth served are engaged with the court system for a variety of delinquent offenses including but not limited to violent and aggressive behaviors. The safety of the community as well as our staff and other residents depends on the ability of staff to react quickly, fairly, consistently, and with control. Inaccurate assessments could significantly impact the health and wellbeing of the community, youth detained, and facility staff. Work is performed on carpeted and tiled floors. There will be a considerable amount of walking to various parts of the facility. Duties may require some amount of physical fitness with regard to personal protection and assisting staff in the restraint of a resident.