Tara Holgate

Background

About Tara Holgate

I am a dedicated Clinical Forensic Psychology Pre-Doctoral Intern currently working at Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center in Los Angeles, California. In this role, I am gaining invaluable hands-on experience at the intersection of mental health and the legal system, focusing on both clinical assessment and forensic evaluation. Before my current position, I completed two years of practicum training at Riverside Behavioral Healthcare Center (RBHC), a facility designated as an Institution for Mental Disease (IMD). During my time at RBHC, I worked with individuals in the Severely Mentally Ill (SMI) population, providing psychological services that included therapy, assessment, and treatment planning. This experience honed my ability to work with complex cases that require a deep understanding of both mental health and legal implications, positioning me as a skilled professional in managing high-needs forensic populations. In addition to my clinical work, I have proactively pursued additional certifications and specialized training to expand my knowledge in forensic psychology, reinforcing my commitment to continuous professional development. This dedication culminated in my successful completion of a dissertation focused on law enforcement stress and coping styles, a topic that highlights my interest in understanding the psychological factors that influence the behavior of individuals within high-stress professions. My career aspirations include further broadening my expertise to encompass a range of forensic populations, including children, adolescents, correctional facilities, and law enforcement. My clinical background, research interests, and specialized training all reflect my goal of becoming a well-rounded forensic psychologist capable of serving diverse populations in legal and correctional contexts. Through my professional experiences and academic achievements, I demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing the field of forensic psychology, with a clear focus on understanding and addressing the psychological needs of individuals involved in the criminal justice system.