Psychologist/Forensic Evaluator

Virginia Information Technologies Agency•Petersburg, VA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Central State Hospital (CSH) is a 277 bed Joint Commission accredited psychiatric inpatient facility located in Petersburg, Virginia. CSH has proudly been serving citizens of the Commonwealth since 1870, when we opened our doors as the first psychiatric hospital in the country dedicated to the treatment of African Americans. A new and modern CSH is currently under construction on the same property, with a scheduled completion date of 2027. CSH maintains the only maximum-security treatment facility in the state (111 beds). We also have 166 beds available for individuals in the community who need inpatient care, as well as individuals in the criminal justice system. We believe that treatment should be holistic and focused on the person’s individual needs, recognizing that recovery is not linear or the same for every person. Treatment modalities may include medication, evidence-based group and individual therapy, peer support, psychosocial rehabilitation, vocational training, preparation for court, and treatment for substance use. Central State Hospital is recruiting for a Psychologist/Forensic Evaluator to join our dedicated forensic team! This position plays a key role in providing high-quality, timely forensic and psychological evaluations that meet court standards and legal requirements. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, clinical competence, and cultural awareness while modeling respectful and ethical behavior toward patients and staff. Responsibilities include completing forensic evaluations, preparing written reports, consulting with attorneys and court personnel, and providing expert testimony when required. The Psychologist/Forensic Evaluator also supports the hospital’s commitment to least restrictive interventions and de-escalation practices, while offering training and supervision to post-doctoral fellows and other trainees. This role is essential in ensuring evaluations and reports are completed in accordance with court orders and forensic best practices—helping to advance justice, safety, and excellence in forensic mental health care.

Requirements

Knowledge of criminal forensic evaluations and case law
Excellent report writing and expert testimony skills
Effective time management skills
Ability to prioritize effectively to meet deadlines
Doctoral Degree in Clinical or Counseling Psychology
Completion of an accredited doctoral program
Licensed or license-eligible in the Commonwealth of Virginia

Nice To Haves

On the list of approved evaluators in Virginia.

Responsibilities

Completing forensic evaluations
Preparing written reports
Consulting with attorneys and court personnel
Providing expert testimony when required
Supports the hospital’s commitment to least restrictive interventions and de-escalation practices
Offering training and supervision to post-doctoral fellows and other trainees
Ensuring evaluations and reports are completed in accordance with court orders and forensic best practices