About forensic psychologists
Forensic psychologists apply psychology to legal matters: expert reports for courts, custody and family proceedings, assessment of damages or credibility, and support for victims. Ask about their experience as an expert witness in your country.
Getting mental health care in New Zealand
Public health system · Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa). Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate. Search the official register
- Medical Council of New Zealand. Doctors, including psychiatrists, must be registered with the Medical Council. The public register shows scope of practice and whether the doctor holds a current annual practising certificate. Search the official register
- Psychotherapists Board of Aotearoa New Zealand (PBANZ). Psychotherapists are regulated under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 and are listed on the Board's public register. Counsellor is not a protected title.
Urgent help in New Zealand
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 111 · Emergency (111)
- 1737 · 1737 Need to talk?
- 0800 543 354 · Lifeline Aotearoa
- 0508 828 865 · Suicide Crisis Helpline (0508 TAUTOKO)
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: psychologistsboard.org.nz, mcnz.org.nz, tewhatuora.govt.nz, mentalhealth.org.nz
What does a forensic psychologist do?
A forensic psychologist applies psychology to legal questions. Day to day they carry out expert assessments and write reports for courts, lawyers or individuals: for example on child custody, the psychological impact of an event, capacity, credibility issues or risk. Some also work in prisons, victim support or rehabilitation programmes. They may be asked to explain their findings at trial.
When to see a forensic psychologist
You may need a forensic psychologist when a legal process requires an independent psychological assessment: custody or visitation disputes, claims for psychological harm after an accident or assault, workplace harassment cases, or questions about a person’s capacity. If what you need is emotional support during a legal process, a therapist is more suitable, since forensic assessment is evaluative, not therapeutic.
How is it different from other professionals?
A forensic psychologist assesses and reports for legal purposes, with a duty of objectivity towards the court rather than to support the person assessed. A clinical psychologist treats and supports the person. Usually the same professional should not be both therapist and expert witness in the same case. A forensic psychiatrist is a doctor who assesses medical and psychiatric aspects in legal contexts.
What happens in the first session
The first contact usually clarifies the legal question, who requests the report, deadlines and what documents are available. The psychologist will explain the limits of confidentiality, since the report will be shared in the legal process. Bring court documents, previous medical or psychological reports and your lawyer’s details, and ask about the methods used, timeline and whether they may testify.
How long does the process take?
A forensic assessment usually involves several interviews, psychological tests and review of documents, sometimes including interviews with other people involved. Writing the report takes additional time. The whole process may take from a few weeks to longer, depending on the complexity of the case, the number of people assessed, court deadlines and whether court testimony is required.
Online or in person?
Initial consultations and some follow-up interviews can be done online, which helps when people live far apart. However, many forensic assessments are better done in person, to administer tests properly, observe behaviour and ensure the person is not influenced by others during the interview. The applicable legal rules may also determine what format is acceptable.
How to check their qualifications
Forensic psychologists are psychologists, so check registration with the psychology licensing body or professional college of their country. Ask about specific training in forensic or legal psychology, experience with your type of case, whether they have acted as an expert witness before, and how they ensure impartiality. Their report should follow recognised professional and ethical guidelines.
What affects the price?
Forensic work is usually priced per report or per project rather than per session. Costs depend on the complexity of the case, the number of people to be assessed, the volume of documents, travel, urgency, and whether court appearance is needed. Ask for a written estimate covering each phase, and check with your lawyer whether legal aid might apply.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in New Zealand cover psychological care?
Free short-term mental health and wellbeing support for mild to moderate distress is offered in many general practices through the Access and Choice programme, delivered by Health Improvement Practitioners and health coaches. Depending on the region you can book directly or be referred by your GP or practice nurse, often on the same day. Availability depends on the practice; people with more severe needs are referred by their GP to specialist mental health services.
How do I check that a forensic psychologist is licensed in New Zealand?
New Zealand Psychologists Board (Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa): Psychologist is a protected title: only people registered with the Board may use it, and they also need a current practising certificate. Check the register for their scope of practice (Psychologist or Clinical Psychologist) and practising certificate.