Jamie Wernsman

Jamie Wernsman, PhD is a graduate of DePaul University's Clinical Psychology PhD program. She has a specialization in forensic psychology and completed her internship at Bellevue Hospital -New York University and her postdoctoral fellowship at the Cook County Jail. Upon completion of her fellowship, Dr. Wernsman became Director of the Male Psychiatric Acute Care Unit within the Cook County Jail. In her various professional roles, Dr. Wernsman has conducted forensic evaluations (competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility, aid in sentencing, civil commitment/risk assessments), provided expert testimony in cases for individuals with mental illness and risk for violence, and developed and oversaw mental health treatment for inmates with serious psychiatric symptoms, including psychosis, suicidal ideation, and mania. Her primary research interests are the criminalization of mental illness, disproportionate minority contact, and LGBTQ+ individuals involved in the criminal justice system.