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Forensics Psychologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

State of Virginia

$64K - $90K/yr

River North Correctional Center State Role Title: Psych I/Psychology Assoc I Hiring Range: $64,826 ... correctional, forensic, outpatient or other setting Licensed as a clinician, QMHP or be QMHP ...

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All JobsForensics Psychologist JobsForensics Psychologist Jobs in Virginia

Forensics Psychologist information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$92K

$395.1K

How much do forensics psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics psychologist in Virginia is $92,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,900.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensic psychologist do?

A forensic psychologist applies psychological principles to legal issues, often working within the criminal justice system. They may assess the mental state of criminal defendants, provide expert testimony in court, assist in jury selection, and offer recommendations regarding sentencing or treatment. Forensic psychologists also work with victims, conduct risk assessments, and may help develop criminal profiles. Their work bridges psychology and law, ensuring that psychological considerations are accurately represented in legal contexts.

What types of cases does a forensic psychologist typically work on, and how do they collaborate with legal professionals?

Forensic psychologists are often involved in a variety of cases, including criminal evaluations, child custody disputes, competency assessments, and risk assessments for violent behavior. They regularly collaborate with attorneys, judges, law enforcement, and correctional staff by providing psychological expertise, preparing written reports, and offering expert testimony in court. Effective communication and the ability to clearly explain complex psychological concepts to non-experts are essential in this role. The work can be challenging due to high-stakes decisions and emotionally charged cases, but it also offers opportunities to make a significant impact in the justice system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Psychologist, you need a solid background in psychology, a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), and specialized training in forensic assessment and legal procedures. Familiarity with psychological testing tools, risk assessment instruments, and case management systems is typically required. Excellent critical thinking, objectivity, and strong verbal and written communication skills distinguish top professionals in this role. These competencies are crucial for providing accurate evaluations, credible testimony, and effective collaboration with legal and law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Forensics Psychologist vs Criminal Psychologist?

AspectForensics PsychologistCriminal Psychologist
CredentialsDoctoral degree in psychology, licensure, specialized training in forensic settingsDoctoral degree in psychology, licensure, focus on criminal behavior analysis
Work EnvironmentCourts, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilitiesResearch settings, law enforcement, clinical practice with offenders
Employer & IndustryLegal system, government agencies, forensic labsResearch institutions, law enforcement, mental health clinics
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for legal cases, assessments, expert testimonyFocused on understanding criminal minds, offender profiling

While both roles involve understanding criminal behavior, Forensics Psychologists primarily work within the legal system conducting assessments and providing expert testimony, whereas Criminal Psychologists focus more on studying criminal minds and behavior patterns, often in research or clinical settings.

How much money do forensic psychologists make?

Forensic psychologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, with experienced professionals or those working in high-demand areas earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on education, certification, location, and work setting, such as courts, law enforcement agencies, or private practice.

What careers can you get with forensics psychologist?

A forensics psychologist can pursue careers in criminal justice, law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, or private consulting. They often work as expert witnesses, assessment specialists, or in research roles, utilizing psychological testing, interview techniques, and knowledge of the legal system.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Forensics Psychologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Forensics Psychologist job openings:

Forensics Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensics Psychologist job openings in Virginia 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 $92,017 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Counselor II/III

Mount Rogers Community Services

Marion, VA • On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/day

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Mount Rogers Community Services rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
JOB SUMMARY:
To provide counseling, case management services, and crisis intervention based on individual's need and functional assessment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. To provide comprehensive assessment in order to identify and diagnose mental health/substance abuse disorders and the overall functional capacity of the individual; to integrate input from collateral contacts; to make referrals, as appropriate.
  2. To develop and implement individualized treatment plans; to establish measurable goals and objectives, which are based upon individual's needs identified during assessment. To identify and implement appropriate interventions through treatment modalities such as individual, group, family, or couples therapy.
  3. To provide Case Management Services to individuals who meet eligibility criteria, and have identified case management needs; to provide case management activities such as referral, monitoring, supportive counseling, education, and development of skills to enhance community integration.
  4. To engage in ongoing evaluation of clinical practice and of services rendered to individuals, through annual re-assessments and treatment plan reviews; to provide outcome measures of progress.
  5. To deliver emergency services (pre-screenings and crisis intervention) when Emergency Services staff are not available to deliver such services.
  6. To comply with all policies and procedures established by Mount Rogers CSB, Licensure, Medicaid/Medicare, and other regulatory bodies; keeps records up-to-date and adhere to confidentiality of consumer information.
  7. To actively participate in meetings such as supervision, clinical staffing meetings, business meetings, and committees as assigned; utilizes these meetings for active problem solving and to enhance a team approach to decision making. Keep mandatory training up-to-date.
  8. To provide consultation and educational services with Mount Rogers CSB and with other agencies or organizations.

OTHER DUTIES:
  • May provide forensic evaluations or restoration services.
  • Will complete other job related tasks as assigned by supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Extensive knowledge of mental disorders and substance abuse
  • Skills in assessment and diagnosis
  • Knowledge of counseling theories and practice utilized to treat mental illness and substance abuse
  • Knowledge of a broad range of treatment modalities and development of treatment plans
  • Oral and written communication skills
  • Where applicable, knowledge of evaluation tools for psychological testing

Minimum Requirements
EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION REQUIRED:
Counselor II-Level 13: Masters Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field; eligibility for Licensure required.
Counselor III-Level 14: Masters Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field; Licensure required.

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