Joel has experience both in relation to criminological and forensic research, and clinical psychology practice in forensic settings. Joel has an MSc in forensic psychology (University of Kent), a PhD in criminology (University of Cambridge) and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (University of Manchester).

His research interests are in youth justice, the psychosocial experience of imprisonment, and mental health interventions for people who have offended. For instance:

• Research on young men in prisons, including self-harming behaviour.
• Study with prison officers on perceived physical health, psychological distress and social support.
• Evaluation of a staff training programme for staff working with young people in secure training centres and youth offending institutions.
• Research on psychological therapy in prisons and other secure settings.
• Longitudinal evaluation of the Safer Custody Group.

He has co-edited a book on young people in forensic mental health settings: psychological thinking and practice, (Palgrave, 2015). This book examines the application of psychological thinking and practice with young people across a broad range of forensic mental health settings. It provides an up-to-date account of current thinking and practice in the field and the challenges of applying effective psychological approaches within forensic settings for young people.

As well as undertaking research, he continues to work clinically in the criminal justice system. For instance, as a registered clinical and forensic psychologist he has worked for six years in forensic settings, with both adults and young people in both secure and community settings.

More information about Joel's experience is available here.

We have worked with Joel on:

• Needs assessment for a new secure children’s home.
• Evaluation of the Emotional Health and Mental Wellbeing Transformation Programme for Surrey County Council.
• Evaluation of the Enhanced Case Management approach for the Welsh Government and YJB Cymru.