What to Expect During a Psychosexual Evaluation: A Guide for Attorneys and Clients
A psychosexual evaluation can feel overwhelming for clients and attorneys, but understanding the process helps reduce anxiety and confusion. A psychosexual evaluation is a comprehensive assessment conducted by a forensic psychologist to evaluate sexual behaviors, risk of reoffending, and treatment needs. Courts often request these evaluations in cases involving sexual offenses, custody disputes, or risk assessments.
During the evaluation, clients can expect a clinical interview, standardized psychological and risk assessment testing, and collateral interviews or record reviews. The evaluation may include discussing sensitive topics, but the purpose is not to shame—it is to provide courts with clear, objective information for decision-making.
For more on what these evaluations typically include, see the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers guidelines. If you are an attorney preparing your client, encourage honesty and transparency with the evaluator, as this can help ensure the report is accurate and helpful to the court.
