Forensic Psychology is the application of psychology within the legal system to create safer communities and to assist people to find pathways away from criminal behaviour. Forensic Psychologists work across many settings including, HM Prison and Probation Service, Hospitals, secure children’s homes, police forces, Courts and Universities. In practice this means Forensic Psychologists assess, formulate and intervene in those engaging in harmful behaviours to lead to safer societies. They communicate psychological knowledge and advice to other professionals. They develop and facilitate training for other professionals in forensic settings. They contribute to the international evidence base for forensic psychology.

The Qualification in Forensic Psychology (Stage 2) is the independent route to training as a forensic psychologist.

It is a doctoral level qualification designed to enable you to train flexibly, within a structured and supportive framework.

• Read more about the Qualification in Forensic Psychology Stage 2

Here trainees can post queries, share ideas and offer support to others.

To be on the DFP Trainees Member Discussion Email List you need to become an in-training member of this Division as this is a member benefit.

To join the list please contact [email protected] quoting ‘DFP Trainees Member Discussion Email List’ and your membership number in the subject line.

Name: Dr Rachael Wheatley

Job title: Cluster psychology lead (HMPPS); Registered Forensic Psychologist; BPS chartered psychologist 

How did you get into this career? 

I attended a Job Simulation Assessment Centre around two decades ago, having completed my MSc in Forensic & Legal Psychology.

What do you love about it? 

I love learning about myself and about people. I believe that in different circumstances people would probably not choose to offend to achieve their goals. I don’t believe most people enjoy committing offences and are probably often conflicted and therefore not achieving genuine life happiness. I love helping people discover the elements that have led to their offending and explore ways they can live by their values and find happiness in their lives in other ways. 

What are you looking forward to in your career? 

I'm looking forward to improving our way of working as forensic psychologists with those who stalk, to hopefully impact upon their ability to cease and desist. 

What do you think the DPF's areas of development could be?

We could develop further with the DFP. I would like to see more active engagement with policy makers and government, particularly in relation to influencing stalking related risk management and especially treatment approaches.