Bicoastal Psychology provides forensic psychological evaluation and consultation services for attorneys and courts in Los Angeles and throughout California. Dr. Danielle Esses conducts evidence-based assessments involving complex mental health presentations and her reports emphasize clarity, nuance, and high-quality writing that is both clinically informed and accessible to legal professionals.

Dr. Esses provides thoughtful, evidence based forensic evaluations tailored to the specific clinical and legal questions at hand

forensic psychologist and expert witness

Dr. Danielle Esses is a clinical and forensic psychologist who provides forensic evaluations, expert witness testimony, and consulting services in California She works with attorneys, courts, and individuals requiring evidence-based psychological assessment in criminal and civil contexts. Dr. Esses conducts forensic psychological evaluations near Los Angeles, CA. 

forensic psychological evaluations in CA

She has experience evaluating individuals presenting with complex mental health concerns including psychosis, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders, suicidality, and personality pathology. Her forensic work may involve psychological assessments, risk assessment, record review, diagnostic clarification, and consultation regarding psychological injuries and mental health functioning.

As a forensic psychologist in California, Dr. Esses conducts psychological evaluations that are clinically sophisticated, organized, and directly responsive to the referral question. Her approach emphasizes clear communication, careful diagnostic formulation, and high-quality written work.


areas of evaluation:

evaluation process:

  • Consultation with attorneys
  • Clinical-forensic interview
  • Review of records
  • Collateral interviews as needed
  • Administration of formal psychological and/or risk assessment instruments
  • A clear, defensible report 
  • Expert witness testimony, if requested

What happens during a forensic psychological evaluation?

A forensic evaluation may include a clinical-forensic interview, psychological testing, record review, and collateral interviews, depending on the referral question. Unlike therapy, the purpose of the evaluation is to provide an objective, evidence-based opinion related to a specific legal or administrative issue.

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How long does a forensic evaluation take?

The length of the evaluation depends on the complexity of the case and the referral question. Interviews may take several hours and, in some cases, occur across multiple meetings. Additional time is often spent reviewing records, conducting collateral interviews, scoring and interpreting psychological testing, consulting with attorneys, and preparing the written report. Estimated timelines are discussed during the initial consultation.

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Are forensic evaluations confidential?

Forensic evaluations are not confidential in the same way therapy is. Information obtained during the evaluation may be shared with referring attorneys, courts, or other authorized parties as part of the forensic process. Limits of confidentiality and the nature of the evaluation are reviewed in detail during informed consent before the evaluation begins.

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Do you provide expert witness services?

Yes. Dr. Esses may provide expert consultation and testimony when clinically and legally appropriate. Availability for testimony depends on the nature and scope of the case.

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How much do forensic evaluations cost?

Fees vary depending on the type and complexity of the evaluation, the amount of record review required, and whether testimony or consultation services are involved. An estimate can be provided after an initial discussion of the referral question and case needs.

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seeking a forensic evaluation?

If you're looking for an expert witness psychologist or forensic psychologist in Los Angeles, CA, reach out to discuss the referral question, timeline, and whether the requested evaluation is an appropriate fit.

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