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Areas of specialtyAreas of speciality: |
Academic Qualifications
BA (University of Pretoria, South Africa)
BA (Hons) Psychology (University of Pretoria, South Africa)
MA (Clinical Psychology) (University of South Africa)
Diploma in Industrial Relations (The Institute of Administration and Commerce of Southern Africa)
Diploma in Personnel Management (The Institute of Administration and Commerce of Southern Africa)
Professional Qualification
I am registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board in the Clinical Scope of Practice
Professional Affiliations
Member of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP)
Clinical Member of the Australian and New Zealand Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abuse (ANZATSA)
Member of the Australia and New Zealand Association of Psychiatry, Psychology and the Law (ANZAPPL)
Experience and current work environments
I have practised Clinical Psychology for 24 years, the last 20 of which have been devoted to Forensic Psychology in New Zealand. I am in full-time private practice, having previously been in part-time private practice and working for the Forensic Psychiatric Service (Canterbury District Health Board). I prepare reports for the Court as requested by both the Crown and defence, and testify in court as an expert witness, if required. Given my interest areas, I previously lectured post-graduate students of the University of Otago about sexual offending and associated risk assessment. Finally, I remain up-to-date with the current research literature in the area, attend training workshops and conferences in the domains associated with my work.
Approach to the work
I assess a range of people facing criminal or civil proceedings and who are likely to appear before the Court or Parole Board. My assessments are aimed at helping those in the legal professions to understand why people came to offend, the likelihood of them re-offending (risk assessment), and potential treatment and management options. Many of these cases pertain to alleged sexual offending, an area that I have specific expertise in. I conduct assessments throughout the South Island, and occasionally the North Island.
Particular issues assessed for criminal and civil court cases include:
• Sexual, violent, and other offending
• Risk assessment (including those facing preventive detention and extended supervision orders)
• Fitness to stand trial
• Insanity/ mental disorders
• Amnesia
• Intellectual Disability
• Modes of evidence
• Sentencing issues
• Treatment/ management recommendations
I understand that people facing the criminal justice system often feel overwhelmed, frustrated, disillusioned, and apprehensive about the way in which things are proceeding. It is my role to complete a comprehensive assessment that provides you and your lawyer with the necessary information to make an informed decision about how to proceed with your case. I take a non-judgemental, unbiased approach to each case. Depending on the case, I am likely to ask about your background, work history, relationships, mental health issues, substance use, and offending – to name a few topics. At times, I rely on psychological “tests” to provide additional information. I also rely on a number of internationally recognised tools to help assess level of risk. In the end, I attempt to provide an overview or formulation about what led to the events before the court. I may also provide recommendations about what treatment might prevent further difficulties.
While I have experience in treating a range of difficulties in those with mental health issues and/or offending behaviours, using both individual and group treatment processes based on a model of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), I am currently not accepting referrals for treatment clients.
I receive (confidential) peer supervision around my work, and I have a strong commitment to working within the Code of Ethics for Psychologists working within Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Fees and services
My rates are available on application. Cases vary significantly but on average, a complete assessment and report takes about 12-13 hours. Court appearances incur additional costs. A vast majority of these reports are funded by Legal Services Agency and can be arranged through lawyers.
Availability
I am relatively flexible around times and days of the week. As assessments can last a few hours, it is usually best to contact me directly and discuss what is required.
Articles of interest written for this website
Adolescent sex-offenders
False confessions
Internet Pornography
The violent video game controversy
The Christchurch Earthquakes and Ongoing Stress
Teens and internet pornography
Taking threats seriously
Myths and Facts about Sex Offenders
Packed to the Rafters
Sneaky peeks
Contact details
Craig Prince
PO Box 159
Wanaka
9343
Telephone: 0274973598
Email: craigprince@xtra.co.nz
