Testifying as a Mental Health Professional:
From the Basics to Suggestions for Providing Effective Testimony

Mental health professionals are often called to testify in a variety of court proceedings involving family law, juvenile dependency, and guardianship issues. Testimony may be taken at a hearing or at a pre-trial proceeding such as a deposition. Alternatively, mental health professionals may be called upon to submit a written affidavit or declaration in lieu of providing oral testimony. Their role in any particular matter may range from that of a clinician, an expert, a consultant, to a rebuttal witness. The testimony of a mental health professional may significantly impact the outcome of a case. Mental health professionals who testify without any prior education and training may make mistakes which lead to complaints to their licensing boards or governing bodies.

This webinar will discuss the role of the mental health expert who is providing testimony, what is necessary to qualify as an expert and understanding the limitations of the mental health professional’s knowledge and experience, how to prepare to provide testimony, the fundamental rules to follow when testifying, how testifying may differ by type of proceeding (hearing vs. deposition), the type of assessment (comprehensive 730 vs. a limited or brief assessment) and differences in providing testimony in the courtroom or by video platform. If time permits, basic information about what to include in a declaration will also be discussed.

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE PROGRAM INFO

Pricing:
(all attendees will receive a certificate of attendance a week or two after the Webinar)

• AFCC California Chapter Members:     $25*
• Non-Members:     $50
• Court and Non-Profit Employees who are also AFCC California Chapter Members:     Fee Waived**

*Discount code for California Chapter members is in the email you received announcing this program, or CLICK HERE to log onto the website and receive the code.  If you have never logged into the California Chapter website GO HERE for instructions to log in for the first time

**For the Court and Non-Profit Employees (who are also AFCC California Chapter Members), USE THIS LINK to request code.  Please include copy of ID, letterhead, business card or other proof of employment.

PLEASE NOTE:

• Discounts are applied on final checkout page.
• Once you complete the final checkout page the system may take up to 10 or 15 minutes to email your confirmation, so please be patient.
  
• YOU MUST also REGISTER WITH ZOOM using the link that is emailed to you a few minutes after registration.