DSHS CSTC Psychologist Forensic Evaluator

Posting number: 2026-04423

Department: Dept. of Social and Health Services

Division: BHHA

Job classification: PSYCHOLOGIST FORENSIC EVALUATOR

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Health Services, Mental Health

Summary

Are you interested in the intersection of psychology and the law?

Join the Child Study & Treatment Center (CSTC) at the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services (DSHS) as a Psychologist Forensic Evaluator!

In this important role, you will conduct forensic psychological evaluations for youth involved in the justice system under RCW 10.77. You'll provide expert testimony, complete psychological assessments, and write reports to help courts make informed decisions about young people's mental health and legal competence. Your expertise will guide the courts in cases involving both juvenile and adult criminal proceedings, always with a focus on the unique needs of children and adolescents. 

Telework up to 2 days per may be available for this position. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

This position is also eligible as a 12-month In-Training opportunity allowing those with a doctorate degree, who are not yet licensed to apply. If selected as a candidate in training you will work as a Psychologist 3. You will perform duties as a child and adolescent psychologist under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, where you will gain clinical evaluation, treatment, child development, assessment, and supervisory experience. Upon successful completion of the formal training plan, the incumbent will advance from Psychologist 3 to the goal class of Psychologist Forensic Evaluator, once licensure as a Psychologist in the State of Washington has been obtained.

Who should apply
We're looking for professionals who have:

• A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program
• Possession of a license to practice psychology in the State of Washington
• One year of post-doctoral work with forensic populations (adults or juveniles)
• The ability/experience to independently complete juvenile competency forensic evaluations

Note: You will receive orientation to clinic policies and procedures but will be expected to function fairly autonomously with regards to complete and writing juvenile forensic evaluations. 

Some of what you'll do

• Conduct forensic evaluations for the courts, including assessments of competence to stand trial, mental state, clinical diagnoses, developmental status, risk, and restoration potential
• Interview youth, review records, talk to collateral sources, and administer psychological tests
• Write clear, objective reports to inform court decisions
• Provide expert testimony as needed
• Offer competence restoration services for youth when indicated
• Travel within Washington State for interviews and court appearances
• Complete necessary documentation and support your team

Why DSHS

• Make a meaningful impact on the lives of youth and families across Washington
• Work with a supportive, expert team at CSTC - the state's only psychiatric hospital for children and adolescents
• Be part of an agency that values your expertise and is committed to professional growth and development
• Help shape the future of mental health and justice for young people in your community

Next step
If you're passionate about supporting youth and want to use your skills to make a difference, we encourage you to apply today. Join CSTC and DSHS to help build brighter futures for Washington's children and families.

Questions? Please contact grant.grady@dshs.wa.gov and reference 04423

The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.

Supplemental information

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protect­ed veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384. 

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