Derek Ream, Psy.D., M.S., M.S.CP.

Hi, I’m Dr. Derek Ream, a forensic psychologist and the owner of Sugar Land Psychological Associates. I specialize in criminal forensic evaluations, and I also see a limited number of people for individual therapy. In those appointments, I focus on helping people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and difficult phases of life.

You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. You may be feeling persistently overwhelmed, finding it hard to enjoy things you once cared about, questioning a major decision, or trying to adjust to a change you did not expect. I work with you to understand what is happening, recognize patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and develop ways to move forward that fit your life.

My forensic practice focuses on evaluations of competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility (insanity), and sentence mitigation. I have been appointed by courts across Texas and have provided expert testimony to help judges and attorneys understand complex psychological issues. This work requires careful listening, thoughtful questions, and an understanding of how a person’s experiences, health, and circumstances fit together. I bring those skills to my clinical work as well.

My foundation in treatment comes from working in inpatient, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings, including the Substance Disorders Treatment Program at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center. I have worked with people facing depression, anxiety, trauma-related concerns, substance use, chronic pain, and other complex challenges. My advanced training in clinical neuropsychology, neuro-rehabilitation, and clinical psychopharmacology helps me consider the broader factors that can affect how someone feels, thinks, and functions.

My approach to therapy is thorough, collaborative, and practical. We can explore where your concerns come from while also focusing on what would help you now. Whether you want to feel less anxious, reconnect with things that matter to you, or find your footing during a transition, we will identify goals together and assess what is helping you make progress.

I have served as an Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine and an Adjunct Professor at Clark State College. I have published in peer-reviewed journals and books and presented research in neuropsychology, rehabilitation psychology, and cognitive neuroscience at national and international conferences. Outside of direct practice, I serve on the Prescribing Psychology “RxP” Committee of the Texas Psychological Association, act as a peer reviewer for a neuropsychology journal, and previously served as President of the Fort Bend Psychological Association.

Outside of psychology, I’m married to my husband, Dr. André Fernandes, and we share our home with our two dogs, Giovani and Annie. I’m also a tattoo artist and owner of Derek Ream Tattoos. Tattooing gives me another way to connect with people, practice a creative craft, and help someone express something meaningful to them.