The Forensic Counseling Division advances culturally responsive, evidence-informed counseling at the intersection of mental health and the legal system. We convene Black counselors and allied professionals who work with individuals, families, and communities impacted by courts, corrections, detention, reentry, and related systems—centering dignity, justice, and healing.

Mission

To equip Black counselors and mental health professionals to provide ethical, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed forensic services; elevate community-driven practices; and advocate for fair, humane, and equitable treatment of justice-impacted people across the lifespan.

Vision

A future in which Black communities experience equitable access to high-quality forensic mental health services, where counseling contributes to safety, accountability, and healing—and the legal system recognizes and integrates culturally responsive care at every decision point.

Values

• Cultural Humility & Responsiveness — We honor the lived experiences, identities, and histories of Black communities in all forensic contexts.

• Ethics & Due Process — We uphold the highest professional standards in assessment, testimony, consultation, and treatment, with transparency and respect for clients’ rights.

• Trauma-Informed Practice — We understand the pervasive impact of trauma and design services that promote safety, trust, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.

• Justice & Equity — We confront bias and structural harms within systems and advocate for policies that reduce disparities and expand access to care.

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration — We partner with courts, attorneys, corrections, probation/parole, community organizations, and families to improve outcomes.

• Evidence & Excellence — We ground our work in the best available research, clinical expertise, and community wisdom, continuously improving through education and supervision.

Who Should Join

This division is for you if you are a:

• Licensed or pre-licensed counselor/therapist providing services connected to courts, corrections, diversion, reentry, or victim services.

• Evaluator or consultant conducting risk/needs assessments, mitigation work, expert testimony, or program design in justice settings.

• School, community, or private-practice clinician supporting youth and adults impacted by arrest, detention, probation, or family court involvement.

• Faculty, supervisor, or student preparing the next generation of counselors for forensic practice.

• Community partner or ally working alongside counselors to reduce harm, enhance safety, and strengthen families and neighborhoods.

Join us to access peer learning, case consultation, specialized trainings, advocacy updates, and a supportive network committed to excellence in forensic counseling for Black communities.