National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Inc. upcoming events

Forensic Mental Health Consultant Workshop (16 Apr 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

image created using ChatGPT 2.9.26

Description

Want to expand your clinical career into the world of forensic consultation?

In today’s courtroom, forensic mental health experts often influence the outcome of cases involving competency, criminal responsibility, custody, risk assessment, and psychological injury. But attorneys lack the clinical knowledge needed to effectively challenge expert testimony—creating a major opportunity for skilled mental health professionals to serve as high-impact consultants.

Facilitated by two experienced forensic consultants and an attorney, this continuing education workshop is designed for clinicians who want to learn how to consult with attorneys and strengthen cross-examination strategy by identifying flawed methodology, misused psychological testing, unsupported conclusions, and deviations from accepted forensic standards.

Participants will gain practical tools for analyzing forensic reports, spotting red flags, and translating complex psychological concepts into clear, courtroom-relevant consultation guidance.

Note: This workshop fulfills one of the requirements for NBFE's Certified Forensic Mental Health Consultant (CFMHC) credential. Click here for details!

Learning Objectives

After this workshop, participants will be able to do:

Differentiate the role of a forensic mental health consultant from the role of a forensic examiner.

Identify practice standards that can be used to critique forensic mental health evaluations.

Locate key findings from scientific sources that can inform evaluation reviews.

Describe administrative and business aspects of forensic consultation.

Presenters

Norman E Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT

A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness, having founded the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, created the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential, developed the Hoffman Organicity Test (HOT) to differentiate between schizophrenia and other organic brain disorders.

Dr. Hoffman developed and validated the Child & Adolescent Forensic Screening Inventory (CAFSI), meticulously designed to support professionals in conducting thorough and effective clinical interviews with children and adolescents within forensic contexts, ensuring that critical information is gathered accurately and efficiently.

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry.

He serves as executive director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, assistant professor at the University of South Florida's Counselor Education program, International Counseling Task Force chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association.

He co-authored the Forensic Evaluation section of the "AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, authored the DSM-5 to DSM-5-TR update article published in the American Counseling Association's Counseling Today magazine, and served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential.
He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020.
Panelist

David L. Ferguson, Esq.

David Ferguson, a Seabreeze High School graduate, holds degrees from Daytona Beach Community College and the University of Florida, culminating in a Juris Doctorate from Mercer University's Walter F. George School of Law in 1982. With a career spanning over three decades, Ferguson initially worked in insurance defense before branching out into various legal domains including personal injury, criminal law, family law, estate planning, trusts, and probate. His extensive experience in representing clients across Volusia, Flagler, Orange, and Seminole counties underscores his expertise in criminal defense, family law matters, and diverse legal areas.

Notably, he also served as a chief executive for Rankin-Patterson Oil Company, offering unique insights into safeguarding assets during divorce and estate planning processes. Actively engaged in community service, Ferguson is involved in multiple organizations and holds a strong commitment to mentoring in Volusia County Schools. He remains a proud and active member of the Ormond Beach/Daytona Beach area, contributing to the community through his legal expertise and civic engagement.

Cost
$150 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$200 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1357436

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 6 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling and Florida Board of Psychology. CE Broker Tracking # 20-1357436 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823). This workshop has been approved for 6 hours of continuing education (5 general hours, and 1 hour ethics/professional boundaries).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Adolescent Digital Risk: Forensic Assessment and Court Implications (24 Apr 2026)

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

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Description

Adolescents are navigating identity formation, emerging sexuality, and peer influence within a digital ecosystem that amplifies risk exposure. Social media validation cycles, online grooming, sexting behaviors, cyberbullying, and digital coercion increasingly appear in custody disputes, juvenile justice cases, and exploitation matters.

This 90-minute forensic-focused webinar examines how adolescent neurodevelopment intersects with digital environments to heighten vulnerability to impulsivity, exploitation, and high-risk behavior. Participants will learn structured methods for assessing digital behaviors, identifying red flags for grooming and coercion, and incorporating digital risk findings into forensic reports and testimony.

Learning Objectives

Objective 1: Describe how adolescent neurodevelopment increases vulnerability to digital risk behaviors.

Objective 2: Identify behavioral indicators of online grooming, exploitation, and digital coercion in teens.

Objective 3: Apply structured interview strategies to assess problematic digital behaviors in forensic evaluations.

Objective 4: Integrate digital risk findings into forensic reports and articulate conclusions clearly in court settings.

Presenter

Dr. Lourdes Araujo, LMHC, LMHC-QS, CFMHE

Dr. Lourdes Araujo is a bilingual counselor educator, forensic evaluator, and trauma specialist with over 18 years of clinical experience working with survivors of domestic violence, exploitation, and complex trauma across the lifespan. She serves as an Assistant Professor in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Grand View University, where she prepares future counselors in trauma-informed practice, ethics, and neurobiologically grounded intervention.

Dr. Araujo’s clinical and forensic work focuses on high-risk and vulnerable populations, including adolescents involved in custody disputes, juvenile justice matters, and cases involving coercion or exploitation. She integrates neuroscience, attachment theory, and culturally responsive assessment frameworks into both her evaluations and expert testimony. Her scholarship and presentations emphasize identity development, trauma recovery, and the intersection of digital environments with adolescent neurodevelopment.

A sought-after speaker and educator, Dr. Araujo provides continuing education trainings for mental health professionals on trauma, forensic assessment, ethical practice, and emerging digital risk factors impacting youth. Her work is grounded in advocacy, cultural humility, and a commitment to ensuring that no victim is left behind.

Cost
$30 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$50 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1362434

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 1.5 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1362434 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Forensic Mental Health Evaluation Workshop (NBFE26B) (30 Apr 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Image created with ChatGPT 3.16.26

Become a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator(CFMHE)!

Virtual 2 Day Zoom Event

Thursday, April 30 - Friday, May 1 (1PM-5:15 PM ET Each Day)

Forensic mental health evaluation is an impactful and lucrative area of specialization for licensed mental health professionals, yet few counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists are exposed to this unique specialty in their graduate training. Whether you plan on working full-time in forensics or just wish to supplement your practice with an additional funding stream, this credential can help you establish yourself as a forensic expert. If you already work in the forensic field, this credential can boost your resume, sharpen your evaluation skills, and enhance your reputation as an expert.

Join Our Elite

Group of Certified Clinicians!

Attendees who complete the entire certification process and are awarded the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential can use the credential to better establish themselves as experts in the forensic arena.

NBFE’s all-inclusive

certification fee includes:

The 8-hour workshop on the fundamentals of forensic mental health evaluation online via Zoom.

4 hours of asynchronous, online "on demand" webinars on (a) handling depositions, and (b) the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in forensic evaluation

Free 24/7 access to several webinar recordings and study materials designed to help candidates prepare for the written and oral examinations for certification

One-on-one mentoring (via email, phone, or webcam) with an expert CFMHE who provides feedback on written evaluation reports

Written examination and oral examination fees

Complimentary participation in select NBFE webinars

Complimentary access to NBFE’s member portal, including use of our online forum for questions and answers about forensic mental health evaluation.

Get a Reduced Rate!

NBFE’s all-inclusive certification fee is $865, but we are offering a discounted fee of $780 for all candidates who are members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for a full list of partners). Students and interns may attend at a reduced rate (50% off) to start learning about forensic mental health evaluation. However, students and interns cannot obtain the full certification until they have been licensed for a full year, at which time they may pay the remaining 50% balance and continue with the certification process, having enjoyed the benefits to free and reduced-cost forensic webinars in the interim.

Learning Objectives in which participants will:

Participants will describe the certification and credentialing process for the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential.

Participants will define "forensic mental health evaluation" and describe differences between forensic and clinical evaluations, ethical considerations for forensic evaluation, types of forensic mental health evaluations, and qualifications for administering and interpreting psychological tests.

Participants will summarize subject matter incorporated into the CFMHE written examination, including Parental Alienation Syndrome and child custody cases, assessment and testing principles, psychopathic traits, domestic violence, competency to stand trial, malingering, civil commitment, laws and standards of forensic mental health evaluation, assessment of violence and suicide potential, interviewing techniques, personal injury cases, juvenile assessment, substance abuse evaluation, sexual abuse, expert witness standards, and resources to learn more.

Participants will write a quality forensic evaluation report.

Participants will describe tips and strategies for the oral examination and expert witness testimony.

Participants will identify tests that can be used for forensic applications.

Note that attendance at this workshop is not the only step in the certification process. Attendees must also complete an online application, submit three reference letters, submit proof of licensure for at least one full year (associate, intern, and provisional license status will not meet this requirement unless the applicant is legally permitted to diagnose and treat mental disorders without being under the supervision of another licensed mental health professional), submit proof of malpractice insurance, document 40 hours of forensic-related training and/or experience (e.g., CEs, time spent conducting evaluations, writing reports, court testimony, etc.), pass the written examination (administered at the end of the workshop), submit a sample report, and pass the oral examination (done via webcam online) as depicted in the graphic below and on our website. Most attendees already have the 40 hours experience (i.e., work-related experience or training experience) prior to attending the workshop, but many do not. If an attendee does not already have 40 hours of forensic experience, he or she may apply 8 hours by attending this workshop and then obtain the remaining hours through other means after the workshop by attending training events on forensic mental health-related topics with any approved CE provider (NBFE is not responsible for any additional costs incurred during that process).

Please note that, effective 4/1/26, NBFE all applicants for the Certified Forensic Mental Evaluator credential will, in addition to this 8-hour workshop, be required to participate in two two-hour "on-demand" asynchronous webinars, including (1) How To Prepare For Depositions: How to Avoid Impeachment and Disqualification (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1338355 • ACEP No. 6189), and (2) Innovative Horizons: The Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Mental Health Evaluation (2.0 CEs - CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1343018 • ACEP No. 6189). The cost of these training events is included in the registration fee for this workshop.

About the Presenters

Norman Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT,

CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP

A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.

Dr. Hoffman had the boldness and courage to create a training and certification process paving the way for those seeking the status as psychiatrists and psychologists have. His dedication and persistence, despite systematic discrimination, made it possible for licensed professional counselors to have equal, if not elevated status in the field of forensic mental health.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness.

Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation.

He credits music with inspiring his collaborative approach to working with parents and professionals, and he continues to perform and write the jazz that started it all.

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP

Dr. Aaron Norton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with certifications in addictions, alcohol and drug counseling, rehabilitation counseling, clinical mental health counseling, trauma treatment, forensic mental health evaluation, forensic behavioral analysis, and forensic psychometry.

He serves as executive director of the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, assistant professor at the University of South Florida's Counselor Education program, International Counseling Task Force chair for the American Mental Health Counselors Association, and chair of the Government Relations Committee for the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association.

He co-authored the Forensic Evaluation section of the "AMHCA Standards for the Practice of Clinical Mental Health Counseling,” authored the proposal for AMHCA’s Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Forensic Evaluation (CMHS-FE) credential, authored the DSM-5 to DSM-5-TR update article published in the American Counseling Association's Counseling Today magazine, and served on the expert panel that created the standards and written exam for the Florida Certification Board’s Certified Telehealth Practitioner (CTP) credential.

He has 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor, was awarded Mental Health Counselor of the Year by the American Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Counselor Educator of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2016, Researcher of the Year by the Florida Mental Health Counselors Association in 2019, and he was awarded AMHCA’s Public and Community Service Award in 2020.

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1361913

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

Continuing Education Information: The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE), ACEP No. 6189, and the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) ACEP No.1012 , are cosponsors of this program. This cosponsorship has been approved by NBCC. Both ACEPs are responsible for this program, including the awarding of NBCC credit. This workshop has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education (6 general hours, 1 ethics/professional boundaries hour, and 1 domestic violence hour) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1361913. (CE Broker Provider #50-15823). NBFE is endorsed by and partnered with the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Continuing Education Information

This workshop has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education (6 general hours, 1 domestic violence hour, and 1 hour ethics/professional boundaries) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1349784 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program.

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Forensic Mental Health Evaluation Workshop (NBFE26B) (01 May 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Image created with ChatGPT 3.16.26

Become a Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator(CFMHE)!

Virtual 2 Day Zoom Event

Thursday, April 30 - Friday, May 1 (1PM-5:15 PM ET Each Day)

Join Our Elite

Group of Certified Clinicians!

Attendees who complete the entire certification process and are awarded the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential can use the credential to better establish themselves as experts in the forensic arena.

NBFE’s all-inclusive

certification fee includes:

The 8-hour workshop on the fundamentals of forensic mental health evaluation online via Zoom.

4 hours of asynchronous, online "on demand" webinars on (a) handling depositions, and (b) the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in forensic evaluation

Free 24/7 access to several webinar recordings and study materials designed to help candidates prepare for the written and oral examinations for certification

One-on-one mentoring (via email, phone, or webcam) with an expert CFMHE who provides feedback on written evaluation reports

Written examination and oral examination fees

Complimentary participation in select NBFE webinars

Complimentary access to NBFE’s member portal, including use of our online forum for questions and answers about forensic mental health evaluation.

Get a Reduced Rate!

NBFE’s all-inclusive certification fee is $865, but we are offering a discounted fee of $780 for all candidates who are members of partnering organizations (see Professional Partners for a full list of partners). Students and interns may attend at a reduced rate (50% off) to start learning about forensic mental health evaluation. However, students and interns cannot obtain the full certification until they have been licensed for a full year, at which time they may pay the remaining 50% balance and continue with the certification process, having enjoyed the benefits to free and reduced-cost forensic webinars in the interim.

Learning Objectives in which participants will:

Participants will describe the certification and credentialing process for the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential.

Participants will define "forensic mental health evaluation" and describe differences between forensic and clinical evaluations, ethical considerations for forensic evaluation, types of forensic mental health evaluations, and qualifications for administering and interpreting psychological tests.

Participants will summarize subject matter incorporated into the CFMHE written examination, including Parental Alienation Syndrome and child custody cases, assessment and testing principles, psychopathic traits, domestic violence, competency to stand trial, malingering, civil commitment, laws and standards of forensic mental health evaluation, assessment of violence and suicide potential, interviewing techniques, personal injury cases, juvenile assessment, substance abuse evaluation, sexual abuse, expert witness standards, and resources to learn more.

Participants will write a quality forensic evaluation report.

Participants will describe tips and strategies for the oral examination and expert witness testimony.

Participants will identify tests that can be used for forensic applications.

Note that attendance at this workshop is not the only step in the certification process. Attendees must also complete an online application, submit three reference letters, submit proof of licensure for at least one full year (associate, intern, and provisional license status will not meet this requirement unless the applicant is legally permitted to diagnose and treat mental disorders without being under the supervision of another licensed mental health professional), submit proof of malpractice insurance, document 40 hours of forensic-related training and/or experience (e.g., CEs, time spent conducting evaluations, writing reports, court testimony, etc.), pass the written examination (administered at the end of the workshop), submit a sample report, and pass the oral examination (done via webcam online) as depicted in the graphic below and on our website. Most attendees already have the 40 hours experience (i.e., work-related experience or training experience) prior to attending the workshop, but many do not. If an attendee does not already have 40 hours of forensic experience, he or she may apply 8 hours by attending this workshop and then obtain the remaining hours through other means after the workshop by attending training events on forensic mental health-related topics with any approved CE provider (NBFE is not responsible for any additional costs incurred during that process).

About the Presenters

Norman Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT,

CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP

A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.

Dr. Hoffman had the boldness and courage to create a training and certification process paving the way for those seeking the status as psychiatrists and psychologists have. His dedication and persistence, despite systematic discrimination, made it possible for licensed professional counselors to have equal, if not elevated status in the field of forensic mental health.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness.

Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation.

He credits music with inspiring his collaborative approach to working with parents and professionals, and he continues to perform and write the jazz that started it all.

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1361913

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

Continuing Education Information: The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE), ACEP No. 6189, and the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) ACEP No.1012 , are cosponsors of this program. This cosponsorship has been approved by NBCC. Both ACEPs are responsible for this program, including the awarding of NBCC credit. This workshop has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education (6 general hours, 1 ethics/professional boundaries hour, and 1 domestic violence hour) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1361913. (CE Broker Provider #50-15823). NBFE is endorsed by and partnered with the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Continuing Education Information

NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Advanced Topics in Medical Child Abuse (Munchausen by Proxy) (11 Jun 2026)

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Image created using ChatGPT 3.4.26

Description

This advanced course offers an in-depth exploration of Medical Child Abuse (MCA), also known as Munchausen by Proxy (MBP) or Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another (FDIA). Participants will gain a refined understanding of the clinical, forensic, and systemic complexities of this form of abuse.

The training focuses on offender behaviors, motivational dynamics, and key medical and psychological indicators, with emphasis on differentiating MCA from genuine medical conditions, caregiver anxiety, and malingering by proxy. Learners will develop skills in case conceptualization, red flag recognition, and defensible documentation.
The course also addresses ethical considerations, multidisciplinary collaboration, forensic record review, and legal implications, preparing professionals to respond with greater diagnostic clarity and confidence.
Learning Objectives

Objective 1: Identify core clinical and behavioral indicators associated with Medical Child Abuse (MCA), Munchausen by Proxy (MBP), and Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another (FDIA).

Objective 2: Differentiate MCA from legitimate medical conditions, caregiver anxiety, somatic symptom presentations, and malingering by proxy.

Objective 3: Apply structured approaches to case conceptualization, documentation, and multidisciplinary communication in suspected MCA cases.

Objective 4: Evaluate the forensic and legal implications of MCA, including record analysis, risk considerations, and the role of expert consultation.

Presenter

Dr. Ari Gartin, Ph.D., LMHC, CFMHE Candidate

I am a Washington State licensed mental health counselor, forensic psychology consultant, and founder of Ariga Psychological Services, LLC. I have approximately fifteen years of experience as a mental health therapist. I earned my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology in 2025, completing a forensic specialty dissertation focused on diagnostic accuracy in Factitious Disorder Imposed on Another. My practice integrates psychological assessment, forensic record review, and expert consultation.

I specialize in the clinical and forensic evaluation of medical child abuse, malingering, competency, and related high-stakes diagnostic questions. I provide expert consultation, comprehensive medical and psychological record analysis, and legally defensible reports. I am currently conducting medical and forensic record reviews for several prominent cases active within the court system. In addition to my forensic work, I write on Substack, publishing analyses on medical child abuse and deception-based pathology.

I am a member of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, the American Counseling Association, and the American Psychological Association, the National Board of Forensic Evaluators and I serve on the Board of Munchausen Support.

Cost
$20 for NBFE members (i.e., CFMHEs and CFMHE applicants/candidates) and, for members of our partnering organizations please see Professional Partners for current listing)
$40 for Non-members

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1362437

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) has been approved by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 6189. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. NBFE is solely responsible for all aspects of the program. NBFE is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. NBFE is recognized and endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

This workshop has been approved for 1.0 general hours, with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling and the Florida Board of Psychology, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1362437 (CE Broker Provider #50-15823).

Click here for NBFE Cancellation/Refund Policy.

Forensic Mental Health Evaluation Workshop (AM26) (23 Jun 2026)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Image created with ChatGPT 3.16.26

Hybrid Event

Become a Certified Forensic Mental

Health Evaluator (CFMHE)!

AMHCA Annual Conference

CLICK HERE for Hotel & Travel Information

Stay for the AMHCA Annual Conference

CLICK HERE to register for AMHCA Annual Conference!

Training Schedule:

Workshop begins at 8AM Pacific Time
First break at 10AM till 10:15 AM Pacific Time
Training resumes until 1PM Pacific Time
Lunch break from 1PM till 2PM Pacific Time
Training resumes until last break 2PM till 3:45 PM Pacific Time
Last break at 3:45PM till 4PM Pacific Time
Training resumes 4PM and ends at 5:30PM Pacific Time

In support of the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA), the National Board of Forensic Evaluators, Inc. (NBFE) announces our exclusive forensic mental health evaluator certification training event is a Hybrid Event, enabling mental health professionals across the country to attend remotely. NBFE is the only forensic certification organization officially endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA).

Join Our Elite

Group of Certified Clinicians!

Attendees who complete the entire certification process and are awarded the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential can use the credential to better establish themselves as experts in the forensic arena.

NBFE’s all-inclusive

certification fee includes:

The 8-hour workshop on the fundamentals of forensic mental health evaluation online via Zoom.

4 hours of asynchronous, online "on demand" webinars on (a) handling depositions, and (b) the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in forensic evaluation

Free 24/7 access to several webinar recordings and study materials designed to help candidates prepare for the written and oral examinations for certification

One-on-one mentoring (via email, phone, or webcam) with an expert CFMHE who provides feedback on written evaluation reports

Written examination and oral examination fees

Complimentary participation in select NBFE webinars

Complimentary access to NBFE’s member portal, including use of our online forum for questions and answers about forensic mental health evaluation.

Get a Reduced Rate!

NBFE’s all-inclusive certification fee is $865, but we are offering a discounted fee of $780 for all candidates who register for this event due to our partnership with AMHCA. Students and interns may attend at a reduced rate of $390 to start learning about forensic mental health evaluation. However, students and interns cannot obtain the full certification until they have been licensed for a full year, at which time they may pay the remaining $390 balance and continue with the certification process, having enjoyed the benefits to free and reduced-cost forensic webinars in the interim.

Learning Objectives in which participants will:

Participants will describe the certification and credentialing process for the Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator (CFMHE) credential.

Participants will define "forensic mental health evaluation" and describe differences between forensic and clinical evaluations, ethical considerations for forensic evaluation, types of forensic mental health evaluations, and qualifications for administering and interpreting psychological tests.

Participants will summarize subject matter incorporated into the CFMHE written examination, including Parental Alienation Syndrome and child custody cases, assessment and testing principles, psychopathic traits, domestic violence, competency to stand trial, malingering, civil commitment, laws and standards of forensic mental health evaluation, assessment of violence and suicide potential, interviewing techniques, personal injury cases, juvenile assessment, substance abuse evaluation, sexual abuse, expert witness standards, and resources to learn more.

Participants will write a quality forensic evaluation report.

Participants will describe tips and strategies for the oral examination and expert witness testimony.

Participants will identify tests that can be used for forensic applications.

Note that attendance at this workshop is not the only step in the certification process. Attendees must also complete an online application, submit three reference letters, submit proof of licensure for at least one full year (associate, intern, and provisional license status will not meet this requirement unless the applicant is legally permitted to diagnose and treat mental disorders without being under the supervision of another licensed mental health professional), submit proof of malpractice insurance, document 40 hours of forensic-related training and/or experience (e.g., CEs, time spent conducting evaluations, writing reports, court testimony, etc.), pass the written examination (administered at the end of the workshop), submit a sample report, and pass the oral examination (done via webcam online) as depicted in the graphic below and on our website. Most attendees already have the 40 hours experience (i.e., work-related experience or training experience) prior to attending the workshop, but many do not. If an attendee does not already have 40 hours of forensic experience, he or she may apply 8 hours by attending this workshop and then obtain the remaining hours through other means after the workshop by attending training events on forensic mental health-related topics with any approved CE provider (NBFE is not responsible for any additional costs incurred during that process).

About the Presenters

Norman Hoffman, PhD, EdD, LMHC, LMFT,

CFMHE, CCCE, CFBA, CFP

A man who saw the potential, an innovator, pushing the boundaries to advance the cause of licensed professional counselor in the field of forensic mental health. He had the vision, the success in his field, sometimes overcoming great challenges to pave the way for those seeking status and professional recognition in a field of forensic mental health that has in the past been inaccessible.

Dr. Hoffman had the boldness and courage to create a training and certification process paving the way for those seeking the status as psychiatrists and psychologists have. His dedication and persistence, despite systematic discrimination, made it possible for licensed professional counselors to have equal, if not elevated status in the field of forensic mental health.

Dr. Hoffman is considered a pioneer with his passion and creativity to develop the pattern for those who pursue a role as an expert forensic mental health expert witness.

Today, as Clinical Director of the Counseling and Psychotherapy Center in Ormond Beach, Florida, Dr. Hoffman continues to break through conventional barriers to provide families with the help and guidance they need. But he has not forgotten his musical foundation.

He credits music with inspiring his collaborative approach to working with parents and professionals, and he continues to perform and write the jazz that started it all.

Aaron Norton, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, CFMHE, CFBA, CFP

Continuing Education Information

ACEP No. 6189

Florida CE Broker Tracking No. 20-1361913

CE Broker Provider No. 50-15823

Continuing Education Information: The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE) is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. NBFE maintains responsibility for this program and its content. The National Board of Forensic Evaluators (NBFE), ACEP No. 6189, and the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) ACEP No.1012 , are cosponsors of this program. This cosponsorship has been approved by NBCC. Both ACEPs are responsible for this program, including the awarding of NBCC credit. This workshop has been approved for 8 hours of continuing education (6 general hours, 1 ethics/professional boundaries hour, and 1 domestic violence hour) with the Florida Board of Clinical Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, & Mental Health Counseling, CE Broker Tracking # 20-1361913. (CE Broker Provider #50-15823). NBFE is endorsed by and partnered with the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

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