Understanding and managing the risk of violence or sexual offending is a crucial part of ensuring public safety and supporting therapeutic outcomes. At Wholesome Psychology, our Edmonton and St. Albert-based psychologists provide comprehensive, evidence-based forensic violence risk assessments and sexual offending risk assessments for individuals involved in legal proceedings or seeking clarity for personal reasons.
What Is a Forensic Risk Assessment?
Forensic risk assessments bridge the worlds of psychology and law. They involve evaluating the likelihood that an individual may engage in violent or sexually harmful behavior. These evaluations are often used in court proceedings but can also be requested privately for peace of mind or personal intervention planning.
Our assessments are grounded in current psychological science and respect for each individual’s dignity and rights. We take a collaborative, trauma-informed approach in line with our values, providing compassionate, nonjudgmental services while maintaining the highest professional standards.
Why Are These Assessments Important?
Forensic assessments play a vital role in:
- Supporting court decisions regarding sentencing, probation, or release conditions
- Identifying therapeutic needs and opportunities for intervention
- Providing individuals with a clearer understanding of their behavior and risk factors
- Informing legal professionals about the psychological elements of a case
These evaluations are often requested by judges, lawyers, or parole boards, but they may also be initiated by individuals who are concerned about their own behavior or risks.
Who Typically Needs a Forensic Risk Assessment?
Clients seeking this service include:
- Individuals involved in criminal proceedings where violence or sexual behavior is a concern
- Those on probation or parole who need to demonstrate rehabilitation or risk reduction
- People undergoing custody evaluations or family law proceedings where safety is questioned
- Professionals, legal teams, or organizations requiring expert consultation
At Wholesome Psychology, we provide specialized assessments that meet legal, ethical, and clinical standards. We offer these services to clients across Edmonton, St. Albert, and surrounding communities.
What to Expect During the Assessment Process
Our forensic assessment process is thorough, individualized, and transparent. While each evaluation is unique, you can typically expect the following steps:
- Initial consultation: We meet with the client (and legal counsel if applicable) to understand the context, goals, and concerns.
- Data collection: This includes in-depth interviews, standardized psychological testing, and a comprehensive review of relevant documentation (such as court records, medical history, or third-party reports).
- Collateral interviews: Where appropriate and permitted, we may speak with family members, case workers, or other professionals involved in the client's life.
- Risk formulation: Using validated tools (e.g., HCR-20, Static-99R, RSVP), we develop a structured professional judgment based on multiple risk factors and protective strengths.
- Report preparation: A detailed written report is compiled, summarizing findings, risk levels, and recommendations for management or treatment.
- Feedback session: Results are shared with the client or referring party. We explain findings in clear, accessible language and answer any questions.
The entire process typically takes 10–15 hours to complete, with direct client contact ranging from 3–7 hours depending on the complexity and scope of the assessment.
Violence Risk vs. Sexual Offending Risk Assessments
Although often requested together, these are distinct forms of forensic evaluation. Our team conducts both types with care and precision:
- Violence risk assessments focus on the likelihood of general aggression, domestic violence, or impulsive harm toward others.
- Sexual offending risk assessments examine patterns of sexually inappropriate or criminal behavior, often using tools like the Static-99R or SVR-20.
In both cases, we work from a strengths-based and trauma-informed perspective, acknowledging that each person’s story is complex and that risk does not equal destiny.
Who Conducts the Assessment?
Our assessments are completed by licensed psychologists and clinicians experienced in forensic psychology. Each member of our therapist team brings a compassionate, ethical, and skilled approach to their work. We remain up-to-date with current literature and legal standards to ensure your report is credible and court-ready.
We also emphasize cultural sensitivity, gender-affirming practices, and inclusive care for all individuals, including those from marginalized backgrounds.
Legal and Therapeutic Applications
Our forensic violence and sexual offending risk assessments are used in multiple settings:
- Criminal court proceedings (sentencing, bail, parole)
- Family law matters (custody and access decisions)
- Mental health reviews or treatment planning
- Corrections or community supervision contexts
- Personal growth and self-understanding
If you’ve been directed by a lawyer or court to obtain an assessment, or if you're proactively seeking support, our team can walk you through the steps involved with care and clarity.
Confidentiality and Ethics
We understand that these matters are highly sensitive. All assessments are handled with the utmost discretion. We follow strict ethical guidelines to protect confidentiality, unless otherwise required by law or the terms of a court order. Our clients are always informed about the limits of confidentiality before the assessment begins.
Should you need a report for court purposes, we will prepare documentation that meets forensic standards, suitable for legal professionals and judges.
Booking an Assessment in Edmonton or St. Albert
Wholesome Psychology proudly serves clients across Edmonton and St. Albert, Alberta. We strive to provide prompt, respectful service while recognizing the stress that legal matters can bring.
If you're ready to book a forensic violence or sexual offending risk assessment—or simply want to discuss whether it's right for your situation—please reach out to us directly. Our intake specialists are available to answer your questions, provide fee estimates, and outline typical timelines.
Additional Information
Our commitment is to offer clear, evidence-informed opinions that contribute to legal decisions while honoring the dignity and complexity of each client’s experience.
Let’s Navigate This Together
Whether mandated by court or sought voluntarily, a forensic assessment can be a vital tool in understanding risk, enhancing safety, and promoting healing. At Wholesome Psychology, we offer a steady hand and compassionate heart as you move forward.
