School of Applied Psychology
Dr. John Helminski, Forensic Services Unit, Central Regional Hospital, North Carolina, USA
Monday 26th September at 1pm - Room G20, CEC building
The seminar will provide a brief overview of the insanity defense in the United States, and a discussion of the clinical challenges of treating insanity acquittees and preparing them for discharge into the community. Biography Dr. John Helminski is a 2022 Fulbright Specialist to Ireland. He is currently completing his Fulbright Project at the National University of Ireland, Galway. The project’s goal is to exchange knowledge and establish partnerships between Irish and US institutions through educational and training activities within forensic psychology. Dr. Helminski is the chief psychologist of the Forensic Services Unit at Central Regional Hospital in North Carolina. He is board certified in forensic psychology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Psychology and a member of The Psychological Society of Ireland. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from Antioch University, New England. At Central Regional Hospital, Dr. Helminski conducts assessments and treatment of patients who are adjudicated Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity, and those who are not capable to proceed to trial due to mental illness. Prior to moving to North Carolina, Dr. Helminski conducted forensic assessments at Children’s Hospital of Minnesota in cases of suspected child abuse. Dr. Helminski maintains a private practice in forensic psychology. He is a consultant to the legal system regarding child maltreatment cases and provides expert testimony related to best -practices in forensic interviewing of children. Additionally, Dr. Helminski consults with the Durham, North Carolina Police Department and provides psychological services to law enforcement personnel following critical incidents.