PsyD Clinical Forensic Psychology Personal Statement

I hope to be accepted to your especially distinguished PsyD program at ____ University because my long-term goal is to work as a clinical forensic psychologist performing psychological evaluations of competency to stand trial and assessments of diminished capacity. My paralegal education and experience working for a family and criminal law attorney have provided me with great familiarity with legal jargon and issues in this area, as well as the opportunity to interact with legal professionals. I have a firm grasp of the rules and regulations of the American judicial system, especially hearsay evidence. I hope to earn the PsyD Degree from your esteemed program, then I would be qualified to serve as a highly credible, expert witness. With a master's degree in clinical psychology, I would not qualify for court designation as an expert witness since this requires a doctoral degree.

Clinical and Forensic Psychology in the Courtroom

Without a doctorate degree in Psychology, I would also be unable to administer and interpret diagnostic testing to be used in court. Thus, it is my profound hope to be admitted as a doctoral student to ____ University. Your program is my first choice because of the location, as well as the exceptional quality. I want to remain close to my family who fully support my decision to pursue a doctorate degree. This would also facilitate my being able to give my all to my studies. I was raised in the northwest suburbs of ____ and currently live in ____, IL. I earned my BA in Psychology at ____ in 2007 with a specialization in biopsychology and a minor in physiological science. Later, I earned my paralegal certificate from Roosevelt University’s post-bachelorette American Bar Approved institution for paralegal studies. I have also completed thirty-eight credits of graduate course work that are transferable towards a graduate degree in Clinical Psychology. I am also an accomplished world traveler and have an extensive record of commitment to volunteerism in my community.

Another compelling reason I wish to pursue a doctoral degree in Psychology is rooted in the profoundly positive personal experience I had during my time in counseling. This experience was transformative in many ways, as my therapist played a pivotal role in renewing my confidence and enhancing my self-esteem. Through our sessions, I was able to confront and navigate various challenges that had previously held me back, and my therapist provided unwavering support and guidance. His encouragement instilled in me a belief that I could achieve anything I set my mind to, which was a revelation for me. The impact of this therapeutic journey extended far beyond mere words of affirmation; it fundamentally altered my perspective on my abilities and my potential. I learned the importance of resilience and the power of a supportive relationship, which not only helped me overcome personal hurdles but also ignited a deep passion within me to help others experience similar growth and healing. This profound realization has fueled my commitment to make a positive difference in people’s lives, as I understand firsthand the significant role that mental health professionals can play in an individual's journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. Moreover, my experiences have cultivated a strong determination to succeed in your doctoral program. I am eager to delve deeper into the complexities of human behavior and mental processes, equipping myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate meaningful change in the lives of others. I envision a future where I can contribute to the field of psychology not only through clinical practice but also through research and advocacy, helping to ensure that the benefits of psychological support are accessible to all who need it.

I especially look forward to studying in the areas of psychology and law; psychological assessment; and psychological interventions in forensic settings. Your faculty consists of highly distinguished professors who have made invaluable contributions to our professional literature. Thus, I have no doubt that your program will offer me the highest possible quality of instruction in the fundamental theories and knowledge of forensic psychology and provide me with state-of-the-art training in planning, conducting, and evaluating research.

My interests match closely with Dr. ____'s work on juvenile violence. I particularly enjoyed his child & adolescent development course, where I wrote a literature review entitled, “Neurological Development:  A Review of Adolescent Development, Brain Imaging, and Juvenile Justice” which explored the issues of juvenile delinquency in the context of brain, cognitive, psychosocial, and especially adolescent development, including brain and cognitive development.

PsyD Clinical Forensic Psychology Personal Statement