Forensic Evaluations & Testimony

Forensic Psychology

Forensic psychology is a specialized field that applies psychological principles and expertise to legal matters, bridging the gap between psychology and the judicial system. Dr. Mikesell exemplifies the breadth and depth of this discipline through his extensive practice and unique qualifications.

Dr. Mikesell’s forensic practice encompasses a wide range of psycholegal matters across criminal, civil, juvenile, and family cases. His approach involves focusing on the relevant psycholegal questions for each case, then applying his comprehensive expertise through record reviews, attorney consultations, psychological or neuropsychological assessments, professional report writing, and expert testimony when required.

What sets Dr. Mikesell apart is his broad interdisciplinary background. He is board certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) in both Forensic Psychology and Rehabilitation Psychology – a unique combination that makes him the only psychologist in the United States with this dual certification. His expertise spans developmental psychology, neuropsychology, rehabilitation psychology, and clinical psychology, with particular experience in acute and severe mental illness.

This diverse skill set allows Dr. Mikesell to address a wide variety of psycholegal matters and synthesize the complex, multi-layered issues often present in forensic cases. He applies his knowledge across various settings, including criminal proceedings, civil litigation, child and family matters, and administrative hearings.

In his practice, Dr. Mikesell maintains a commitment to objectivity and evidence-based approaches. He strives to provide independent, scientifically grounded insights that can inform legal decision-making. His ability to translate complex psychological concepts into clear, actionable information for the legal system is a hallmark of his professional contributions.

Examples of areas where Dr. Mikesell has experience in the area of forensic psychology include:

Neuropsychological injuries -- TBI, neurotoxins, anoxic brain injury

Civil capacities, guardianship assessments, mental impairment

Assessment of dangerousness to self/others

Mental health care and treatment standards

Disability and ADA related claims

Civil rights litigation and workplace harassment

PTSD and psychological injury related claims

Assessments of psychological functioning of children, adolescents and adults

Reliable and practical child custody evaluations

Child protection and abuse evaluations

Assessment of parental fitness or rights

Visitation risk assessments

Adoption readiness

Psychological testing of children and adults

Psychological profiles of caregivers

Witness or defendant mental status or credibility

Victim or defendant evaluations

Assessment for possible malingering

Assessment of psychopathology or psychopathy (PCL-R Certified)

Violence risk assessment

Sexually Violent Predators (SVP) Article 10 evaluations

Criminal responsibility and competency

Personality profiling

Youthful offender pre-sentencing and waiver evaluations

Adult pre-sentencing evaluations

Specialized evaluations for all age groups

Please feel free to contact Dr. Mikesell to discuss your case