Clinical, Forensic & Family Law Psychologists
in Australia
30+ years experience in
family law psychology.
Internationally recognised
clinical & forensic psychologist.
Forensic behavioural
science expertise.
Specialists in family reports, child assessments, forensic psychology, and therapeutic interventions.
At Vincent Papaleo and Associates, we are a neuroaffirming practise that provides comprehensive psychological and therapeutic services tailored to the needs of the family law and criminal communities. Our team offers expert family and criminal assessments, child-inclusive practice, and evidence-based interventions to assist courts, legal professionals, and families in navigating high-conflict separations, parenting disputes, and complex family dynamics. We deliver independent family reports, risk assessment and pre-sentence reports, child consultation services, reunification therapy, and professional training to support the family law and criminal communities. With extensive expertise in both clinical and forensic settings, we work collaboratively with legal practitioners to ensure that the voices and best interests of adults and children remain at the heart of every matter.
Our team delivers Professional Training and Workshops for lawyers, judicial officers, and allied professionals, offering insights into child development, family systems, and evidence-based intervention strategies to support best practice in family law contexts.
Trusted by courts, legal professionals, and families.
Our Services
Forensic
Our forensic services provide the Court with impartial, professionally prepared assessments and expert testimony to inform child-focused decisions in complex family law matters. We conduct Independent Family Reports and Short Form Reports to offer a comprehensive picture of family dynamics, parenting capacity, and the psychological needs of children. Where required, Child-Inclusive and Parenting Capacity Assessments ensure that the voices and experiences of children are fully considered.
We also specialise in Risk and Safety Assessments, particularly where family violence, substance misuse, or mental health concerns are raised, as well as Allegation Assessments to address claims of abuse, neglect, or coercive control. Our team frequently provides Expert Witness Testimony and Consultation Services to legal professionals, offering clear, defensible opinions on psychological and developmental issues in family law proceedings.
We conduct Specialist ASD Assessments, particularly in the context of family law disputes where understanding a child’s neurodevelopmental profile is essential for tailoring parenting arrangements and ensuring appropriate supports. These assessments provide the Court and families with clear, evidence-based recommendations that consider the unique needs of children on the autism spectrum.
Clinical
Our clinical services focus on the emotional wellbeing of children and families navigating separation, conflict, and change. We offer Child Therapy to support children experiencing emotional, behavioural, or adjustment difficulties, and Individual Adult Therapy for parents and caregivers managing the emotional challenges of separation, co-parenting, or legal conflict.
We provide Reunification Therapy to help rebuild parent–child relationships affected by absence or high conflict, alongside Parenting Support and Psychoeducation to strengthen co-parenting skills and reduce interpersonal tension. For families in transition, Post-Separation Counselling offers a supportive space to manage the emotional and practical impacts of divorce or separation. Additionally, Therapeutic Family Meetings facilitate communication and decision-making that prioritises children’s needs.
Our Directors
-
BBSc, MA, MAPS
Mr Vincent Papaleo is the founding Director and Clinical Psychologist at Vincent Papaleo & Associates, and is internationally recognised for his expertise in Family Law psychology. He began his career at the Department of Child Psychiatry at the Austin Hospital, before establishing his private practice dedicated to supporting separated and high‑conflict families
With over 30 years of experience, Mr Papaleo has provided expert testimony in hundreds of family and children’s law cases, authored countless single expert and family law reports, and has delivered presentations and professional development sessions across Australia and overseas.
As the lead clinician, he specialises in developmentally-informed approaches, behaviour management, and alternative dispute resolution in cases involving separation, conflict, and child wellbeing. Mr Papaleo’s practice is distinguished by its emphasis on clarity, depth, and supportiveness, a cornerstone in helping courts, legal professionals, and families make informed decisions in the best interests of children.
Follow Vincent on LinkedIn
Vincent Papaleo
Dr Ben Jones
-
BAppScsych), GradDipPsych, Doctor of Psychology Forensic), ARCC Endorsed Report Writer
Dr Ben Jones is a forensic psychologist with extensive experience providing expert psychological assessments in complex family law matters. After completing his doctoral training in forensic behavioural science, Dr Jones began his career in criminal law before moving into family law psychology in 2009.
At Vincent Papaleo & Associates, Dr Jones specialises in family reports, risk assessments, and expert witness services for matters involving family violence, sexual abuse, personality concerns, and high-conflict parenting disputes. His work is recognised for being thorough, balanced, and evidence-based, assisting courts, legal professionals, and families in making informed decisions about children’s safety, wellbeing, and future care arrangements.
In addition to his assessment work, Dr Jones is a regular presenter and seminar facilitator, sharing his expertise with professionals across the legal, forensic, and mental health sectors. He is committed to providing clear, practical, and compassionate insights in even the most challenging circumstances.
With over 30 years of experience, Mr Papaleo has provided expert testimony in hundreds of family and children’s law cases, authored countless single expert and family law reports, and has delivered presentations and professional development sessions across Australia and overseas.
As the lead clinician, he specialises in developmentally-informed approaches, behaviour management, and alternative dispute resolution in cases involving separation, conflict, and child wellbeing. Mr Papaleo’s practice is distinguished by its emphasis on clarity, depth, and supportiveness, a cornerstone in helping courts, legal professionals, and families make informed decisions in the best interests of children.
Dr Angela Sorotos
-
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical & Forensic Psychology.
Dr Angela Sorotos is a clinical and forensic psychologist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals and families across the criminal justice, disability, and mental health sectors. She combines clinical expertise with a compassionate, practical approach, helping people navigate some of life’s most complex and challenging circumstances.
Angela completed her Doctor of Psychology (Clinical and Forensic) at Swinburne University, where her research focused on understanding the characteristics of Australian internet sexual offenders. She has shared her findings at international conferences, contributing to the growing field of forensic psychology.
In practice, Angela is known for her ability to work with clients who present with complex needs and dual diagnoses, including those with mental health difficulties and developmental or cognitive disabilities. As a registered Behaviour Support Practitioner, she develops tailored strategies to reduce challenging behaviours and improve quality of life.
At Vincent Papaleo & Associates, Angela provides a wide range of forensic and clinical assessments, including expert reports for family law, child protection, and criminal justice matters. Her evaluations are thorough, balanced, and grounded in evidence-based practice, ensuring that her insights assist courts, families, and individuals in making informed decisions.
Angela’s work is guided by a strong belief in the importance of rehabilitation, fairness, and therapeutic support. She is committed to helping her clients build pathways toward stability, safety, and improved wellbeing.