The idea of the alienist is growing on me. I see Reed as one who intensely observes, reasons it out and then takes actions rather than a 'face'/therapist type, so his contribution would likely be in theorethical paradign shaping and as an expert consult on difficult cases rather than as primary care giver? Maybe an administrative/Board of governors position at a local asylum for some practical experience?
I'm thinking Renaisance Man overall, with a variety of interests and (a very few) publications in each of his fields (biology, macabre anthropology and, of course, psychology). Low aristocracy or legacy (royalties from an uncle's invention/litterary work) to explain why he has the time and ressources to do so?