Podcast Interviews
Trauma Science for Real People
Most trauma science never reaches the people who need it.
Researchers often write academic papers that stay behind paywalls—dense, inaccessible, and disconnected from real life. Survivors and communities are left navigating misinformation and “wellness” trends without evidence.
I believe people deserve better.
I use podcasts, interviews, and public speaking to translate trauma science into clear, compassionate, practical conversations.
My mission is simple
Make evidence-based information accessible to the people it’s meant to serve.
Podcast Appearances
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. These services may include analysis of existing reports, review of treatment records, or consultation with counsel regarding case formulation or cross-examination preparation.
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. She is a nationally recognized expert in 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.
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.
Clarity matters in complex cases.
Science for Survivors delivers independent, evidence-based psychological evaluations, consultation, and expert testimony to support informed legal outcomes.
