All Services

Forensic Psychology

Dr. Josephine Kim, PhD, provides forensic psychological evaluations and court-related assessments from her Englewood, NJ practice, covering questions such as competency, risk, treatment needs, and family court matters, and works with adjudicated juveniles. Evaluations combine record review, structured clinical interviews, and validated psychological instruments, and she consults with attorneys, courts, and agencies.

What to Expect

How does a forensic evaluation work?

At the intersection of psychology and the legal system, forensic psychology requires both rigorous clinical skill and a deep understanding of legal standards. Dr. Kim provides comprehensive forensic evaluations, court-related assessments, and therapeutic services for individuals involved in the justice system, including adjudicated juveniles.

Forensic psychology services with Dr. Kim are characterized by thoroughness, objectivity, and adherence to the highest ethical and professional standards.

Forensic evaluations begin with a detailed review of relevant records, including legal documents, prior psychological reports, educational records, and medical histories. Dr. Kim then conducts structured clinical interviews and administers validated psychological instruments selected specifically for the referral question at hand. Whether the evaluation concerns competency, risk assessment, treatment recommendations, or psycho-legal questions related to family court matters, she approaches each case with the rigor and impartiality that the legal system demands.

For adjudicated juveniles, Dr. Kim brings both clinical expertise and genuine compassion. She understands that young people involved in the justice system often carry histories of trauma, adverse childhood experiences, and systemic disadvantage. Her evaluations go beyond surface-level behavioral observations to explore the developmental, psychological, and environmental factors that have contributed to a juvenile's involvement in the legal system. She provides actionable, evidence-based recommendations that serve both the young person's best interests and the court's need for reliable information.

Dr. Kim is also available to provide expert testimony and consultation to attorneys, courts, and agencies. She communicates complex psychological findings in clear, accessible language that assists legal professionals in making informed decisions. Her reports are thorough, well-organized, and grounded in current research and established forensic guidelines.

In addition to evaluations, Dr. Kim offers therapeutic services for individuals navigating the stresses of legal involvement. Whether a client is facing criminal charges, custody disputes, or the aftermath of a forensic evaluation, she provides supportive, trauma-informed therapy that helps them cope with uncertainty, process their experiences, and work toward positive outcomes.

Cost & Insurance

What does it cost, and do you take insurance?

Forensic evaluations are priced separately, based on the scope of the referral question and the records and testing involved.

Restorative Mind Psychology is a private pay, out-of-network practice and does not participate directly with insurance panels. Payment is due at the time of service, and on request a monthly superbill is provided for clients who seek out-of-network reimbursement from their insurance carrier. All major credit cards are accepted, including HSA and FSA cards. Full details are on the Rates & Insurance page.

Who Can Benefit

Is this service right for you?

Forensic psychology services are appropriate for individuals and entities seeking:

  • Court-ordered psychological evaluations
  • Competency and risk assessments
  • Custody evaluations and parenting capacity assessments
  • Juvenile justice evaluations and treatment planning
  • Expert witness testimony and consultation
  • Pre-sentencing psychological evaluations
  • Therapeutic support for individuals involved in legal proceedings
  • Agencies and attorneys seeking reliable forensic consultation

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions

How is a forensic evaluation different from a clinical one?
The purpose and the rules differ. A forensic evaluation answers a specific psycho-legal question for a court, attorney, or agency, and the person being evaluated is not the client in the usual sense. Confidentiality is limited, the findings go to the referring party, and the process includes record review and objectivity safeguards that clinical evaluations do not require.
Who can request a forensic evaluation?
Typically an attorney, a court, or an agency involved in a matter. Individuals can also seek one, but the referral question needs to be defined clearly at the outset, because it determines which instruments and procedures are appropriate.
Do you work with adjudicated juveniles?
Yes. Dr. Kim evaluates and works therapeutically with young people involved in the justice system, examining the developmental history, trauma exposure, and circumstances behind the behavior rather than the behavior alone.
Will the report say what my attorney wants it to say?
No. A forensic evaluation is only useful to the extent that it is impartial, and a report shaped to a desired conclusion will not withstand scrutiny. Findings are reported as the data support them, including when they are unfavorable to the referring party.

Ready to get started?

Taking the first step can feel difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Reach out today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim and learn how forensic psychology services can support your journey toward healing and growth.