Court Diagnostic & Treatment Center (CDTC) is announcing a planned leadership transition to strengthen long-term service delivery while maintaining continuity, clinical depth, and trusted partnerships with the courts.
After nearly four years of dedicated service as Forensic Director, Dr. Megan Shaal, Psy.D., will transition from her administrative leadership role to focus exclusively on what she does best: high-level forensic evaluation and consultation. Dr. Shaal will continue with CDTC as a full-time contractual forensic evaluator and consultant, remaining an active and integral part of the organization.
Dr. Shaal’s leadership has been critical to advancing CDTC’s clinical standards, operational integrity, and service to the courts. The demands and visibility of the Director role are significant, and this transition reflects a thoughtful realignment—allowing her to focus her expertise where it has the greatest impact while remaining closely engaged in CDTC’s work.
Assuming the role of Forensic Director is Mariah Bowser-Jones, M.A., LPCC, who brings extensive experience in forensic and clinical counseling, program coordination, and system-level service delivery. Mariah has worked across community and correctional settings, focusing on competency restoration, risk assessment, and trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions for justice-involved individuals. In her new role, she will provide day-to-day administrative and operational leadership, overseeing programs, teams, and court coordination.
This leadership structure reflects best practices and aligns with Ohio Mental Health & Addiction Services (OMHAS) standards, ensuring strong administrative leadership supported by ongoing doctoral-level forensic expertise. Clear escalation pathways remain in place, with Dr. Shaal continuing to consult on matters requiring doctoral-level involvement.
Together, this structure strengthens CDTC’s ability to serve the courts with clarity, efficiency, and clinical excellence. It reinforces continuity, preserves institutional knowledge, and supports a sustainable model that enables each leader to operate at the top of their scope.
CDTC remains committed to providing accurate, timely, and reliable forensic mental health services, building strong partnerships with the courts, and advancing safer outcomes for individuals and communities across Northwest Ohio.
Sincerely,
Renee Palacios
Executive Director
Court Diagnostic & Treatment Center