The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (in downtown Los Angeles, Westwood, Irvine, Chicago and online) is the nation's leading nonprofit school exclusively dedicated to psychology and related fields. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is an active member of the National Council of Schools and Programs of Professional Psychology, which has recognized The Chicago School for its distinguished service and outstanding contribution to cultural diversity and advocacy.

In keeping with our mission to embrace diverse and underserved populations, our Los Angeles campus is located in the heart of the most diverse city in the most diverse state in our nation. Perhaps best known for Hollywood celebrities, Universal Studios, world-class shopping, and incredible nightlife, Los Angeles also boasts unmatched ethnic, cultural, political and social diversity–providing an unsurpassed range of opportunities for personal enrichment and professional training. This urban campus is located in the city's downtown business district, in the historic "617 building," with its incredible barrel ceilings and gleaming brass elevators—that open into our ultra-contemporary campus with exposed duct work, concrete floors, dramatic lighting, and state-of-the-art technology. The campus is just steps from the metro train station and public parking, and a short drive from the 110, 101, 5, and 10 freeways.

Forensic Psychology

Forensic Psychologists apply the art and science of psychology within the legal system and related fields. Many work with individuals residing in correctional institutions, psychiatric facilities, or community-based agencies, where they conduct diagnostic and risk assessments to determine whether their patients are at risk of re-offending, and provide psychotherapy and other services to help minimize or eliminate the psychiatric symptoms that led to their patients' criminal acts.

Other Forensic Psychologists work in the court system as jury consultants (advising attorneys on jury selection and trial strategy) or as expert witnesses (testifying about defendants' mental states at the time they committed their crimes, as well as their competency to stand trial).

Still other Forensic Psychologists work primarily with victimized or at-risk populations such as inner-city youth, victims of sexual / domestic abuse, trauma survivors, substance abusers, the chronically mentally ill, and others. They provide assessments, counseling, case management, advocacy, and other services to help their clients cope with the mental and emotional effects of traumatic experiences, overcome addictions, make more positive life choices, and more.

Forensic psychology is one of the fastest growing areas of psychology and practitioners find work in an ever-expanding range of settings—including child welfare agencies, forensic units in state mental health facilities, jails and prisons, community mental health centers, juvenile correctional facilities, government agencies, family courts, and private practice.