Diversion Program Eligibility and the Counseling Component

Jorge Galindo
Image: galindopsychology.com

Licensed to practice in California, Dr. Jorge Galindo is experienced in therapy related to forensics. Having worked with the law enforcement community, Jorge Galindo is knowledgeable of diversion treatments used to rehabilitate offenders of domestic violence.

Depending on the state, diversion programs may be available to people who are first-time offenders of minor offenses, such as petty theft, driving under the influence, and personal possession of specific drugs without intent to sell. The same leniency, at times, may be extended to domestic violence offenders. Admission of guilt may or may not be necessary to participate in diversion treatment.

The program gives offenders the option to enter counseling early in their proceedings. They pay fees to the court or treatment facility. In some cases, fees apply to both and can exceed fines. Programs span six months to more than a year, during which time treatment and behavior modification techniques are employed by professionals to rectify the underlying cause of the issue. The latter employs positive and negative reinforcement to replace troubling behaviors with those deemed more desirable and acceptable. Counseling on an individual basis or in a group setting is typical.

The Role of a Therapist in a Child Custody Case

 

Jorge Galindo
Image: galindopsychology.com

A reserve deputy for Orange County, Dr. Jorge Galindo also dedicates time to his private practice in Irvine, where he and his wife treat families and adolescents. A licensed marriage and family therapist, Dr. Jorge Galindo handles child custody cases referred to him by the court.

When going through divorce proceedings, parents should be prepared to work with a child custody evaluator and forensics expert. Ideally, child custody evaluators should be well versed in treating children and adolescents and have experience assessing family dynamics, personalities, mental illnesses, and parenting skills. The latter is of the utmost importance to ensure their statement given during proceedings results in a minor living and growing in an environment conducive to a positive future.

The chosen therapist interviews applicable individuals regarding life history. He or she may request documents that support an interviewee’s responses. For example, documentation illustrating a parent’s disciplinary approach can be helpful in forming testimony regarding child rearing. A therapist will also evaluate academic achievement, perform personality tests, and conduct psychological testing, ranging from cognitive functioning examinations to projective personality assessments.