Forensic psychologist

As a forensic psychologist, you could:

• help police identify possible suspects, known as criminal profiling
•  advise on how to reduce stress and improve life inside prisons
•  provide psychological therapy to help people understand and overcome their problems
•  carry out research, prepare risk assessments and write reports
•  offer advice to parole boards, mental health tribunals and courts
•  work closely with other professionals and train new psychologists

• knowledge of psychology
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent written communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You can get into this job through a university course or by working towards this role.

With experience, you could:

• become a senior psychologist in a prison or hospital secure unit
•  move into a policy, strategy or service management role
•  work freelance as a consultant, for example as an expert witness