For Attorneys
Independent psychological evaluations, consultation, and expert testimony for attorneys, courts, and agencies
Forensic Psychological Expertise
Science for Survivors, directed by Dr. Christal L. Badour, provides independent, evidence-based forensic psychological evaluations, consultation, and expert testimony across a range of legal contexts.
Evaluations address complex questions about mental health, trauma, and psychological functioning in civil, criminal, and immigration proceedings. Representative areas include posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions, substance use and co-occurring disorders, psychological personal injury, disability, sentencing mitigation, and humanitarian immigration relief evaluations (including asylum, VAWA, T-visa, and U-visa cases).
All opinions are grounded in established psychological science, guided by professional ethics, and communicated with clarity for legal decision-makers.
Evaluation Approach
All forensic evaluations are conducted in accordance with the Specialty Guidelines for Forensic Psychology and the Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (APA, 2017). Each evaluation integrates multiple data sources, including clinical interviews, validated assessment instruments, collateral information, and relevant records. Findings are supported by empirical research and presented in clear, defensible reports suitable for legal settings.
Representative Evaluation Areas
Evaluations are tailored to address the specific legal questions at hand and are grounded in objective, evidence-based assessment methods. Representative areas include:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions
Substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders
Psychological personal injury and emotional distress
Disability and functional capacity
Sentencing mitigation and trauma impact in criminal cases
Humanitarian immigration relief evaluations (asylum, VAWA, T-visa, U-visa)
Evaluation of psychological functioning and impairment
Additional Forensic Services
In addition to comprehensive evaluations, Dr. Badour provides record review, consultation, and expert opinion regarding trauma, PTSD, and related psychological issues in pending legal matters. Services may include review and analysis of existing evaluations, review of treatment records, or consultation with counsel regarding case formulation and evidentiary considerations.
Fees for asylum and human rights–related evaluations may differ from standard forensic rates and are determined on a case-by-case basis. Limited reduced-fee or pro bono evaluations may be available depending on capacity.
A concise, one-page overview of forensic psychological services is available for professional reference.
Expert Credentials
Dr. Christal L. Badour is a licensed clinical psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Kentucky. She is the Director of the Stress, Trauma, and Recovery Research Collaborative (STARRC) and Co-Director of the Clinic for Emotional Health, where she leads federally-funded research and trains doctoral students in evidence-based assessment and treatment of trauma-related disorders.
Dr. Badour completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center at the Medical University of South Carolina, a nationally recognized program specializing in trauma and victimization. Her scholarly work focuses on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma-related psychopathology, and substance use. She has published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters and has delivered invited talks and trainings for professional, academic, and community audiences across the United States, with additional participation in international academic forums.
Her forensic work applies this scientific and clinical expertise to complex legal questions involving trauma, psychological injury, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Dr. Badour’s opinions are grounded in empirical research, supported by validated assessment methods, and communicated with precision and clarity for legal decision-makers.
Referrals & Consultation
Forensic services are available to attorneys, courts, and agencies by referral. To discuss a potential case, request a consultation, or obtain a fee schedule, please contact info@scienceforsurvivors.com or use the consultation request form below.
Evaluations are conducted via secure telehealth in PSYPACT-participating states. In-person evaluations within Kentucky may be arranged at a professional setting when appropriate to the case.
