DSHS BHHA Psychologist- Forensic Evaluator

State of Washington•King County - Seattle – Other, WA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Office of Forensic Mental Health Services (OFMHS) oversees Washington State’s adult forensic mental health system. The work supports efforts to transform forensic mental health services by partnering with community stakeholders to support people with mental illnesses who are involved in the criminal justice system. The position is an in-person forensic evaluator role for the Central Regional Office in the King County area, anticipated to start January 1, 2027. The evaluator works as part of a collaborative team applying psychological expertise within the court system. The role involves completing forensic evaluations of varying complexity, primarily concerning competency to stand trial and also mental state at the time of the offense. Evaluators prepare reports for courts, may provide expert testimony, and consult and collaborate with colleagues across Washington. DSHS offers ongoing supervision and training, with potential opportunities to contribute to practicum, APA-accredited internship, and forensic fellowship programs. The agency also provides continuing education opportunities for licensed psychologists. Applicants at different career stages are encouraged to apply.

Requirements

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D.).
Licensed or able to obtain a license to practice psychology in Washington before the start date.
Strong clinical skills in interviewing, diagnostic clarification, and report writing.
Experience conducting competency to stand trial evaluations.
Knowledge and experience with psychometric testing and instruments used to assess feigning and response validity, competency, and risk.
Interest in writing evidence-based, concise evaluations and providing expert testimony.
Ability to establish collegial relationships with internal and external partners.
Commitment to fairness, access, and social justice in work with DSHS.
Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees using a privately owned vehicle for state business must have liability insurance for that vehicle.

Responsibilities

Complete forensic evaluations, primarily focused on competency to stand trial and also including evaluations of mental state at the time of the offense.
Work, consult, and collaborate with forensic evaluators across Washington State.
Prepare for and provide expert witness testimony about forensic evaluations when requested or subpoenaed by courts.
Submit forensic evaluation reports to the court, analyzing relevant data and facts and formulating psycho-legal opinions in response to court orders.