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

Hi there, I’m Dr. Derek Ream, a Forensic Psychologist and the Owner and CEO of Sugar Land Psychological Associates. I specialize in criminal forensic psychological assessments, including evaluations of competency to stand trial, mitigation, criminal responsibility (insanity), and violence risk. I have been appointed by numerous courts across Texas, admitted as a qualified expert, and have provided expert testimony to assist judges and attorneys in understanding the psychological factors most relevant to legal decision-making. 

My clinical background spans inpatient, residential, and outpatient psychiatric settings, providing a strong foundation for the complex forensic work I do today. In these roles, I conducted suicide and violence risk assessments, comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, and provided treatment to individuals with severe mental illness, substance use disorders, chronic pain, trauma-related conditions, and neurocognitive impairments. I received advanced training in clinical neuropsychology and neuro-rehabilitation through the VA Healthcare System, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and the Design Neuroscience Center, and I completed advanced post-doctoral training in clinical psychopharmacology. 

Throughout my career, I have held roles as an Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, a Clinical Psychologist in the Substance Disorders Treatment Program at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, an Adjunct Professor at Clark State College, and a Forensic Psychologist with Forum Ohio, LLC. In addition to my forensic work, I have authored peer-reviewed book chapters and journal abstracts, and presented research in neuropsychology, rehabilitation psychology, and cognitive neuroscience at national and international conferences.

Outside of my direct practice responsibilities, 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 the President of the Fort Bend Psychological Association. On a personal note, I’m married to my wonderful husband, Dr. André Fernandes, and we share our home with our two dogs, Giovani and Annie. Before entering the field of psychology, I trained as a professional orchestral bass trombonist and performed with ensembles across the United States—an experience that continues to shape my perspective on human performance, discipline, and creativity.