Forensic Psychologist
Forensic Psychologists apply psychological principles within the criminal justice system. They work with offenders and those at risk of offending to understand the psychological factors behind criminal behaviour and to reduce re-offending. Their work bridges mental health and law: for example, they assess individuals for risk of violence, provide therapy for sexual or violent offenders, and support investigations by profiling or giving expert insight. Forensic Psychologists serve adults or young offenders, in secure hospitals, prisons, probation services or police departments.
What the Role Involves
Forensic Psychologists’ activities include:
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Assessment and Treatment: Provide psychological assessments (risk assessments, personality and psychometric testing) for offenders. They design and deliver treatment programs targeting specific issues – for example, cognitive-behavioural programs for anger management, sexual offending or substance misuse. The aim is to help offenders address the root causes of their behaviour and reduce future harm.
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Court and Legal Work: Offer expert opinions in court, mental health tribunals and parole hearings. They may give testimony on an offender’s mental state, risk level or treatment needs. They also advise parole boards on a prisoner’s readiness for release.
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Research and Profiling: Contribute to criminal investigations by analysing crime patterns or creating offender profiles. They may conduct research on crime prevention or evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs.
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Liaison: Work closely with a range of agencies – prison and probation services, police, social services and psychiatric units. Forensic Psychologists often serve as part of teams in secure hospitals, courts or community offender management services, coordinating psychological care for clients.
Career Progression Opportunities
Forensic Psychologists can progress to senior clinical roles (e.g. Principal/Consultant Forensic Psychologist) managing teams in prisons or secure hospitals. With experience, they may lead specialised units (such as sexual offender treatment or youth justice). Many also engage in research and teaching or move into advisory roles within criminal justice agencies. The pathway into forensic psychology is well-defined: once qualified, psychologists often pursue additional forensic specialisations (e.g. working with personality disorders) or leadership positions within their organisation.
Why Work at GMMH
GMMH’s forensic services offer a dynamic and supportive workplace. We operate secure hospital wards, community forensic teams and liaison services in Greater Manchester. The Trust actively supports continuing professional development – you’ll have access to advanced training and conferences in forensic psychology. GMMH’s inclusive culture ensures multidisciplinary collaboration (with healthcare and justice partners) and values evidence-based practice. As a research-friendly Trust, we also encourage forensic psychologists to develop research projects or pursue academic partnerships. With strong supervision and varied clinical cases, GMMH is an excellent setting to build a forensic psychology career.
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