Juan Mejia

Professor Juan Mejia is a distinguished faculty member at the University of Southern California’s Bovard College, specializing in forensic psychology and criminal justice leadership. With over 40 years of experience, he combines clinical, neuropsychological, and forensic expertise to address complex legal and societal issues. He holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Utah, an MA from California State University, Los Angeles, and a BA from Benedictine College.

His research bridges psychology and criminal justice, focusing on criminal thinking, substance addiction, mental illness in offenders, and evidence-based prevention/rehabilitation strategies. He emphasizes leadership development in criminal justice professionals, advocating for transparent, accountable practices aligned with societal needs.

Professionally, he conducts forensic evaluations (competency, diminished capacity, immigration cases), neuropsychological assessments, and therapeutic interventions. He has held faculty roles at the University of Utah and Brigham Young University, served on medical school admissions committees, and contributed to governmental boards. His certifications include Utah Department of Human Services’ Alienist (forensic psychologist) and sex offender evaluation/treatment provider.

He advises students on leadership principles through courses like CJ 510: Criminal Justice Leadership, encouraging self-efficacy and evidence-based decision-making. He advocates for systemic reforms to reduce recidivism and restore public trust in justice systems.