Wendy Coulton, Ph.D.
Wendy Coulton, Ph.D., Forensic Psychology is a dedicated forensic psychologist, behaviorist, and social scientist with extensive experience in clinical research, applied behavioral therapy, and forensic assessment. Her professional journey has taken her through many interconnected fields that have shaped her expertise and perspective. She began in counseling, working with individuals experiencing head trauma and mental health challenges as a day counselor in Columbia, Maryland. She then worked with autistic children and adults, which inspired her academic path in psychology, followed by a Master’s in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix, and a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology from Walden University, where she is completing her dissertation after a temporary hiatus due to COVID-related health challenges.
Wendy has applied her expertise in both forensic and behavioral settings. She served as a forensic psychology assistant in Skokie, Illinois, conducting court-mandated assessments, competency evaluations, and behavioral analyses that were presented in court with professional endorsement by judges. She currently works with ABC Family Centered Therapies, providing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) services for children on the autism spectrum, collaborating closely with families and medical professionals. Additionally, she completed an internship at the U.S. Census Bureau as a research psychologist, contributing to data analysis, digital library management, and scientific operations. Wendy also coordinates community services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, emphasizing person-centered planning, collaboration, and holistic care.
Beyond her clinical and research work, Wendy is an accomplished author, publishing her first novel—a time travel science romance based on quantum physics—in the spring. She is exploring innovations in neuropathology and mental health, including potential patents for computer chip applications addressing addiction and related conditions. Wendy is active in leadership and mentorship programs, including the Leadership for Excellence and Success initiative run by Mark Cuban and the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). Balancing her professional pursuits with personal commitments, she cares for her mother, manages three dogs, and continues to pursue advanced coursework, exemplifying her lifelong dedication to learning, leadership, and community impact.
• Certification , Pharma and Medical Clinical Studies
• University of Maryland Global Campus - MS
• Success Leadership Group
• Howard County Chamber of Commerce
What do you attribute your success to?
Planning and persistence; following her gut rather than second-guessing; doing careful research and measurement; seeking mentorship when possible; and self-accountability.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
"Follow your gut, and don't second-guess yourself." Also: really know what you're doing and try to find mentorship from someone who has already climbed the mountain.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't wait for others to make your life happen — make it happen yourself. Have a clear plan, work the plan, and be accountable. Be kind to yourself and attend to self-care. Make sure the program you're entering into is supportive of you before and during, and after the program, offering internships, scholarships and career development, and connections.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Opportunities: more visibility and new subfields in forensic psychology, expanded career pathways, leadership and mentorship programming, and research/grant opportunities. Challenges: completing required testing and further clinical training after the PhD, navigating policy/procedure and government matters for product development, and balancing health and caregiving responsibilities with professional demands.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Accountability, genuineness, evidence-based practice, and health / self-care.