Licensed Psychologist | Clinical and Forensic Psychology
Expert Evaluations, Consultations and Testimony
In PA, OH, WV and additional PSYPACT approved states
Dr. Bernstein is most widely recognized for his work as an evaluator in child custody, child dependency, risk assessment, and juvenile delinquency cases. Appointed as an expert in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Cambria, Centre, Clearfield, Erie, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Jefferson, Mercer, McKean, Venango, Washington, and Westmoreland counties, as well as in West Virginia, he performed thousands of evaluations for the purpose of measuring children's best interests and needs and welfare.
I am routinely appointed as a Court’s expert to perform a wide range of services related to professional opinions and written evaluations.
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Part and parcel of evaluating for children's best interests, Dr. Bernstein is routinely tasked with considering issues of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse against children, domestic violence, addiction, and parenting practices.
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For identified at risk children, subject to abuse, neglect or mistreatment, Dr. Bernstein evaluates their mental health and psychological needs. He helps determine issues of placement, permanency, and treatment.
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Employers rely upon Dr. Bernstein's thorough evaluations to provide guidance about employees' abilities to fulfill job expectations and responsibilities. Fitness for duty evaluations require investigation with specific consideration of risk for violence and safety.
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If an individual presents a risk to self or others, a risk assessment may be warranted to investigate and mitigate.
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While professionals work hard to be comprehensive, ethical, and responsible, there are always ways to improve. If there are questions or concerns about another psychologist or mental health professional's work and you are particularly dissatisfied, Dr. Bernstein routinely serves as a consultant to attorneys. In this role, he is tasked with aiding attorneys to best prepare for their client by offering a professional critique of the evaluator's written work.
For parties approaching or in the midst of litigation, I offer private consultation to avoid costly expenses associated with the court process and for purposes of offering guidance and support. Knowing how to navigate through the court system can be daunting. With specific advice, collaboration, and information, parties may gain advanced appreciation for their circumstances and better anticipate potential obstacles as they proceed through the court system. In particular, I offer support about issues of parenting, high conflict custody disputes, and co-parenting. All sessions occur in private and are billed at a one hour minimum.
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To assist with direct and cross-examination preparation, by providing evidence-based questions and education accordingly.
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For those who are faced with ethical and professional dilemmas, and seek guidance, Dr. Bernstein offer’s in-person, phone, and video consultation.
“As a licensed psychologist and teacher of psychology, I have been fortunate enough to be in a position to make a direct impact in the lives of others. I view each meeting as an opportunity to learn. Assessment is, and should be, a collaborative process whereby the doctor and client work together. Respecting clients is a must. I am eager to fulfill this role as there are so many children and families who need support in these times of stress.”