Ariel Shidlo, PhD, is a distinguished clinical and forensic psychologist licensed in both California and New York, with over three decades of experience in independent practice. Dr. Shidlo specializes in mental health, forensic evaluations, and the psychological care of trauma in LGBT persons and marginalized communities, particularly asylum seekers and those affected by human rights violations. His expertise encompasses the psychological assessment of diverse populations facing complex sociocultural challenges, and he is widely regarded for his compassionate approach and meticulous attention to forensic standards.

In his forensic work, Dr. Shidlo is known for his comprehensive evaluations in cases involving trauma, mental health consequences of human rights abuses, and complex immigration issues, such as asylum seekers with severe mental illness and the one year bar. He has served as an expert witness in immigration and state court, testifying on the psychological impact of persecution, torture, and discrimination on asylum seekers. His experience includes serving as a trainer for organizations like Physicians for Human Rights and educating attorneys on trauma informed interviewing and LGBT mental health. In one such program, he participated in a training of Syrian physicians and attorneys on the Istanbul Protocol for documenting the mental health effects of human rights violations. 

Dr. Shidlo has held multiple leadership roles, including as Clinical Director at the Well Clinic in San Francisco and a founding prevention Program Director at the HIV Center at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Manhattan. He has served as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, where he trained and mentored clinicians and medical students in evaluating asylum seekers. Dr. Shidlo is also a published author of empirical research on LGBT mental health and has contributed to professional guidelines, including co-authoring the first APA guidelines on psychotherapy with LGB clients. His dedication to marginalized communities is evident in his pro bono work and advisory roles, including his involvement with the Bay Area Asylum Mental Health Project. Dr. Shidlo’s unique blend of forensic acumen and commitment to underserved communities makes him a trusted expert in cases at the intersection of mental health, legal, and human rights frameworks.