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Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Forensic Psychiatric Evaluation Court Clinics (FPECC), which may include participation in the ... unlicensed psychologists and other subordinate staff in the areas of diagnosis, therapy, and ...

... Forensic Psychiatric Evaluation Court Clinics (FPECC), which may include participation in the ... unlicensed psychologists and other subordinate staff in the areas of diagnosis, therapy, and ...

... Forensic Psychiatric Evaluation Court Clinics (FPECC), which may include participation in the ... unlicensed psychologists and other subordinate staff in the areas of diagnosis, therapy, and ...

... Forensic Psychiatric Evaluation Court Clinics (FPECC), which may include participation in the ... unlicensed psychologists and other subordinate staff in the areas of diagnosis, therapy, and ...

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Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist information

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$41K

$87.9K

$137K

How much do unlicensed forensic psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for unlicensed forensic psychologist in the United States is $87,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an unlicensed forensic psychologist?

An unlicensed forensic psychologist is someone who has advanced training in forensic psychology but has not yet obtained a professional license to practice independently. They may work under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, assisting with psychological assessments, research, or evaluations related to legal cases. Their duties are limited by law, and they cannot provide certain services, such as independent court testimony or official diagnoses, without supervision. Unlicensed forensic psychologists are often gaining required experience or completing postdoctoral training necessary for licensure.

What are the typical responsibilities and limitations for an unlicensed forensic psychologist working under supervision?

As an unlicensed forensic psychologist, you will typically assist in conducting psychological assessments, gathering relevant case information, and preparing reports under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist. While you can contribute significantly to casework and may observe or participate in court proceedings, you are not authorized to provide independent diagnoses, expert testimony, or make final recommendations. The role offers valuable experience in forensic settings and can be an essential step toward full licensure, allowing you to gain hands-on exposure while learning to navigate the legal and ethical complexities of forensic work.

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

To thrive as an Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist, you typically need a solid academic background in psychology or forensic psychology, research skills, and a thorough understanding of legal and psychological concepts. Familiarity with psychological assessment tools, data analysis software, and case management systems is often expected. Strong critical thinking, ethical judgment, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working with diverse stakeholders and handling sensitive information. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting forensic evaluations, contributing to legal processes, and ensuring the integrity of psychological assessments.

What is the difference between Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist vs Forensic Psychologist?

AspectUnlicensed Forensic PsychologistForensic Psychologist
CredentialsTypically no state licensure; may have relevant education or certificationLicensed psychologist with state certification
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, assessments, research, often without direct client therapyLegal settings, clinical assessments, therapy, expert testimony
Employer & Industry UsageLegal agencies, research institutions, forensic consultingCourts, law enforcement, mental health facilities

Unlicensed Forensic Psychologists often work in forensic settings without licensure, focusing on assessments and research. Licensed Forensic Psychologists have formal licensure, enabling them to provide therapy and expert testimony. The main difference lies in licensure status and scope of practice within the forensic field.

Is it hard to get hired as a forensic psychologist?

Getting hired as a forensic psychologist can be competitive due to specialized training requirements, including a doctoral degree in psychology and relevant experience. Employers often seek candidates with strong assessment skills, knowledge of legal systems, and licensure or certification, which can extend the time and effort needed to secure a position.

Is there a shortage of unlicensed forensic psychologists?

Unlicensed forensic psychologists are generally in demand due to the specialized nature of their work in legal settings, mental health evaluations, and criminal justice. While licensing requirements vary by region, the need for professionals with strong psychological assessment skills and knowledge of forensic procedures often exceeds supply in some areas, leading to job opportunities for those entering the field.
More about Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs

What cities are hiring for Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs?

Cities with the most Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist job openings:

What states have the most Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Unlicensed Forensic Psychologist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,877 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

HOPE Program and New Beginnings provide a comprehensive range of forensic evaluations, behavioral health services, and specialized treatment programs throughout California. Our individualized approach combines evidence-based practices, the latest research, and cognitive behavioral therapy to effectively support individuals, couples, and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, psychological, and forensic-related challenges.

HOPE Program offer a competitive compensation package that includes medical benefits, paid vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays. We are committed to professional growth by providing extensive training, ongoing consultation, and continuous support for employees and students participating in our training programs.

For more information, please visit www.hopeprogram.biz 

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking seeking qualified Licensed Psychologist (Ph.D./Psy.D.) in our substance abuse and sex offender treatment program. The Licensed Psychologist has advanced expertise in forensic mental health treatment. LP demonstrates in-depth understanding of ethical standards and treatment models such as Risk-Need-Responsivity, Good Lives Model, and various ideological frameworks. LP will be proficient in conducting comprehensive sex offender evaluations using validated risk assessment tools (e.g., STABLE 2007, STATIC 99R, LS/CMI, PCL-R) and possess supervisory skills necessary to mentor and train less experienced clinicians and practicum students. Individuals are ethically grounded, independent decision-makers prepared to provide direct client care as well as clinical supervision within a multidisciplinary team committed to public safety and rehabilitation.

Licensed Psychologist provide direct clinical services including individual and group therapy, forensic assessments, and case management across wide-ranging justice-involved populations. Position may be region-specific or require travel for service delivery across multiple clinic sites. Ideal candidates have solid foundational knowledge in forensic mental health, demonstrate ethical clinical competence, and thrive in multidisciplinary team environments focused on rehabilitation and public safety.

This role offers ongoing learning, professional development, and opportunities to contribute meaningfully in a supportive agency setting.

ESSENTIAL EXPECTATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

● Provide direct clinical services, including therapy, assessment, and case management for forensic and correctional populations and documentation compliant with HOPE Program and regulator standards.

● Conduct comprehensive forensic evaluations (e.g., risk assessments) and ensure documentation meets agency and legal standards.

● Supervise and mentor unlicensed staff, doctoral-level trainees, and practicum students; facilitate case consultation and professional development.

● Contribute to program development and provide input on clinical best practices within scope of expertise.

● Deliver staff trainings and lead case consultations.

● Provide expert testimony or consultation in court settings related to assigned cases.

● Maintain current licensure, certifications (SARATSO, CASOMB), and ongoing professional development.

● Maintain 60-65% Direct Clinical Contact - utilization rate providing short-term and long-term individual and group psychotherapy to forensic clients.

● Deliver individual and group therapies tailored to forensic populations using evidenced-based modalities.

● Stay current with forensic best practices and participate in agency-led clinical training.

● Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and case conferences.

● Provide expert testimony and clinical reports as needed.

● Facilitate staff trainings as assigned.

● Demonstrate foundational knowledge of psychometrics (test use for cognitive, intellectual, and personality assessments).

● Comprehensive Case Management, maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation, such as but not limited to: prepare progress & treatment reports, assessments, clinical and collateral notes in accordance with agency policies, BBS, CASOMB, and ATSA standards.

● Collaborate with referral sources and community partners to coordinate client care and uphold agency representation.

● Perform additional duties as assigned consistent with expertise.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

The right candidate must meet the following requirements in order to apply.

● Doctoral degree in Psychology (Ph.D./Psy.D.)

● Licensed as a Psychologist in California by the Board of Psychology

● Minimum 2 years post-licensure experience in forensics.

● Completion of all BOP licensure requirements, including 3000 hours of supervised experience and passage of EPPP/CPLEE exams.

● SARATSO and CASOMB certifications (or ability to obtain within 6 months).

● Proficiency with cognitive, intellectual, personality, and forensic assessment tools; strong grounding in psychometric theory.

● Demonstrated experience in supervision and training.

● Strong leadership, decision-making, and advanced clinical skills.

● Excellent communication, documentation, and professional demeanor.

● Experience providing treatment to adults and/or juveniles who have a history of sexually abusive, DV or Substance Abuse behaviors

● Proficiency in forensic assessment tools and foundational knowledge in CBT, RNR, Good Lives Model, etc.

● Dedication to preventing further sexual victimization and ability to address difficult issues with a challenging population

● Ability to manage difficult client discussions and ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

● Excellent verbal and written communication skills

● Proven track record of reliability and consistency of high performance

● Exhibits an exemplary work ethic by being highly organized, detailed, and thorough

● In-depth knowledge and application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-based forensic treatment modalities.

● Successful completion of supervisory training required by licensing board.

● Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage high-pressure situations, and maintain effective professional relationships internally and externally.

● Proficient in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) principles, and sex offender-specific curriculum delivery.

● Familiarity with ethical guidelines and practice standards from APA and ATSA.

● Foundational knowledge of major forensic treatment models such as Risk-Need-Responsivity, Good Lives Model, and ideological frameworks.

● Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills with capability to work independently and collaboratively.

● Dedicated to trauma-informed, ethical care and prevention of further sexual victimization.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

● Current Certification by the California Sex Offender Management Board (CASOMB) or meet the requirements for CASOMB Certification (www.CASOMB.org)

● Experience in forensic settings (jail, court programs, re-entry, diversion, inpatient forensic) highly preferred

● Proficient in conducting and interpreting validated risk assessments (STABLE 2007, STATIC 99R, LSCMI, PCL-R). SARATSO-certified in LS/CMI and Stable is required to obtain within 6 months date of hire

● Experience supervising Associates

EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT:

● Doctoral degree in Psychology (Ph.D./Psy.D.).

● Licensed as a Psychologist in California by the Board of Psychology (BOP).

● Minimum 2 years of experience providing adult sex offender treatment or 5 years of progressive clinical experience.

● Attend team meetings and agency-sponsored and CASOMB specific training to strengthen forensic clinical skills

● Knowledge of ATSA Practice Standards, ethical guidelines and the BOP.

OTHER DUTIES

● Perform additional responsibilities assigned by the Clinical Director.

REQUIREMENTS:

● Must maintain and adhere to CASOMB Independent Level certification, SARATSO compliance, and adhere to ethical guidelines (APA, ATSA)

● Must adhere to licensing boards standards and requirements

● Once eligible to supervise, candidate will be assigned associates to supervise

● Facilitate clinical training and maintain current knowledge of evidence-based forensic treatment modalities.

Operational Requirement for Independent Work

Due to the nature of our clinical and operational responsibilities, there will be times when staff members are required to work independently in the office and provide direct client services without another staff member present. Please understand that the ability to work independently in these scenarios is a core competency of this role and an operational necessity for our clinics to function effectively.

Physical Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation):

• Frequent movement: Ability to stand, walk, or remain stationary for extended periods.

• Lifting/Carrying: Lift and carry objects weighing up to 25–50 pounds.

• Manual Dexterity: Operate computers, EMR systems, and office equipment.

• Vision/Hearing: Clear vision and hearing for client observation, documentation, and communication.

• Navigation: Safely move through office, clinic, or community environments while interacting with clients or staff.

Equal Employment Opportunity: We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, breastfeeding status, medical condition, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). 

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application or hiring process, please notify us.