How Specialized Mental Health Support Helps Those Involved with the Justice System
When someone’s been caught up in the criminal justice system — whether it’s facing charges, awaiting court, or transitioning back into the community — their mental health often takes a backseat. But this is exactly when support is needed most. That’s where forensic therapy comes in.
At Redeemed Mental Health, based in Newport Beach, California, we provide specialized mental health services for people involved with the justice system, including individuals facing charges, currently in court, or recently released from incarceration. Our founder, Dr. Andrea Wagner, holds a Doctorate of Psychology in Clinical Forensic Psychology and brings years of experience working in state psychiatric hospitals, correctional settings, and criminal court evaluations.
If you or a loved one is navigating the legal system, here’s what you should know about forensic therapy — and how it can help.
What Is Forensic Therapy?
Forensic therapy is a specialized branch of mental health treatment focused on individuals involved in the criminal justice system. It blends principles of professional psychology, psychiatric treatment, and law to serve people who may be:
Facing charges in criminal court
Awaiting trial or assessment for mental competency
On probation or parole
Living in therapeutic communities or transitional housing
Reentering society after jail or prison
Struggling with mental illness or trauma linked to crimes committed or justice involvement
A forensic therapist isn’t just trained in talk therapy — they understand how mental health intersects with the legal system, how to document progress clearly, and how to navigate high-stakes environments where accurate reporting and sound ethics matter.
What Does a Forensic Therapist Do?
At Redeemed, our team — including licensed psychologists — works with a wide range of forensic clients, from adult offenders to individuals going through child custody evaluations or other legal system challenges. Here’s what a forensic therapist might provide:
Psychological evaluations to determine mental competency or criminal responsibility
Individual and group therapy for those with criminal behavior histories
Forensic counseling to help clients process trauma or regulate behavior
Reports and testimony that may be used in criminal court proceedings
Court-ordered treatment as part of parole or probation conditions
Emotional and behavioral support for people trying to break cycles of justice involvement
Therapy for law enforcement officers and other professionals experiencing secondary trauma
In short, forensic psychotherapy helps stabilize individuals, reduce risk, and support ethical reintegration — all while maintaining standards required by the courts and legal system.
What Makes Redeemed Mental Health Different?
Unlike general clinics or outpatient centers, Redeemed is built with criminal justice-involved individuals in mind. Dr. Andrea Wagner, our founder, has hands-on experience working with forensic populations inside state and federal facilities. She has conducted oral examinations, overseen treatment plans for forensic patients, and worked with attorneys, probation officers, and judges to ensure continuity of care.
When you’re working with Redeemed, you’re not just getting therapy — you’re getting expert guidance from a team that understands the stakes. We’re equipped to help with:
Court-mandated mental health or psychiatric treatment
Support for people who need to show fitness to stand trial
Evaluations for individuals in diversion or reentry programs
Help managing symptoms of mental illness like bipolar disorder, PTSD, or anxiety
Medication management, if necessary, through our clinical staff
Who Is Forensic Therapy For?
You might benefit from forensic therapy if you:
Are currently involved in the criminal justice system
Are being asked to undergo a court-ordered mental health evaluation
Have a history of incarceration and want support reintegrating into society
Have been charged with a crime and need to address co-occurring mental health or substance abuse issues
Are dealing with stress, trauma, or guilt related to crimes committed
Need documentation or evaluations to support your legal resources or court process
Ready to Talk to Someone Who Understands the System?
Whether you’re facing charges, recently released, or simply trying to stay on track, forensic therapy can be a powerful tool for healing, accountability, and growth. At Redeemed Mental Health, we offer a safe space to work through difficult histories — and build a better future.
Call (888) 276-4435 today so we can help you or your loved one get the care, clarity, and support you deserve. Our team is ready to walk beside you — with knowledge, compassion, and clinical experience you can trust.
FAQs About Forensic Therapy
Can forensic therapy help individuals charged with serious crimes?
Yes. Forensic therapy is often used to support individuals charged with serious crimes, including violent offenses. It focuses on reducing risk, promoting accountability, and helping clients develop tools for safer, healthier behavior.
How does forensic therapy support self awareness in clients?
One of the main goals of forensic therapy is increasing self awareness — helping clients understand their behaviors, triggers, and thought patterns so they can make better choices moving forward, both legally and emotionally.
Is board certification required to be a forensic psychologist?
While board certification is not always legally required, many forensic psychologists pursue it to demonstrate advanced specialized knowledge in forensic psychology. At Redeemed, we prioritize working with highly trained and experienced clinicians in this specialty.
Do social workers play a role in forensic therapy?
Yes. Social workers trained in forensic settings often assist with case coordination, treatment facilities referrals, and community reintegration. At Redeemed, our team may include licensed clinical social workers who understand both clinical care and the legal system.
Can you provide treatment at correctional or court-referred treatment facilities?
No, but Redeemed Mental Health works with individuals who have been referred from courts, probation officers, or treatment facilities, providing care that aligns with court requirements and supports long-term behavioral change.
What factors are considered when recommending forensic therapy?
There are many factors — including legal charges, mental health history, risk of reoffending, and the individual’s willingness to engage in treatment. Forensic therapy is highly tailored to meet both clinical and legal requirements.
