Advancing Evidence-based Practices in Legal and Forensic Mental Health Settings
Through leading forensic postdoctoral training, research, clinical practice, and public service
Our Expertise
The Law & Psychiatry Program is an interdisciplinary program focusing on the intersection of psychology and the law in public settings. We engage in research, implementation support, training, and forensic assessment with criminal-legal, forensic, and juvenile justice systems and their partners in Massachusetts and nationally.
Forensic Training
We provide postdoctoral and other training for expertise in forensic evaluation and testimony
Forensic Mental Health
We conduct forensic evaluations (e.g., competence to stand trial, violence risk assessment) and train clinicians how to do the same
Implementation Science
We use implementation science frameworks and methods to integrate and study evidence-based efforts in the real world
Implementation Support
We provide comprehensive support and training for agencies to implement feasible procedural and policy changes and for screening, assessment, and case planning practices
Reduce Racial Disparities
We research existing system disparities, assist with the implementation of structured decision-making strategies to reduce disparities, and provide practitioners with culturally informed training
Risk-Need-Responsivity
We research the effectiveness of RNR and strategies that promote its fidelity and help agencies to enhance its implementation
Risk Screening & Assessment
We recommend, adapt or validate, and train on risk instruments for use at any legal decision point to meet the needs of our community partners.
MAYSI-2 Helpdesk
Our MAYSI-2 Headquarters provides technical assistance, training, and research on the MAYSI-2 for any jurisdiction adopting it to identify potential behavioral health concerns
Decision-Making with Research and Analysis
Valid screening and assessment strategies improve decision-making at various system points (e.g., diversion, pretrial, probation case management, reentry)
Meet the Teams
Learn more about our Law & Psychiatry Program and meet the teams
Featured News
Read the latest news and happenings regarding our work
Highlighted Resources
Risk Assessment in Juvenile Justice: A Guidebook for Implementation
National Youth Screening & Assessment Project
Vincent, Guy & Grisso - 2012
Juvenile Diversion Guidebook (2011)
Models for Change Juvenile Diversion Workgroup
Mental Health Screening within Juvenile Justice: The Next Frontier (2008)
National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice
