The email or phone call you weren't expecting — we are unable to move forward with your application at this time — is one of the worst moments in a federal law enforcement candidacy. You passed the written, the PFT, the background interview, the polygraph. You sat through five hours with the agency psychologist. And then a one-paragraph notice tells you that the hiring decision is being withdrawn or held, and you're not given a clear reason why. If you're searching for what t

If you're reading this, you're probably staring down a federal law enforcement application — FBI, DEA, ATF, USSS, USMS, CBP, HSI, Federal Air Marshal, USPIS, US Capitol Police, Park Police, DSS — and wondering whether something in your mental health history is going to end the conversation before it starts. A VA service-connected rating for PTSD or anxiety. A semester of college counseling. An ADHD prescription you took for two years. A deployment that left a paper trail. A p

If you're a Marine separating out of Camp Pendleton, a Marine aviator finishing a tour at MCAS Miramar, a sailor leaving Naval Base San Diego or NAS North Island, or an airman transitioning out of any West Coast base — and you're considering federal law enforcement — there is one question that comes up almost every time a vet first walks into my office: "My VA rating for PTSD is going to disqualify me, isn't it?" The short answer: almost never automatically, and far less ofte

Receiving a conditional job offer from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the U.S. Border Patrol, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a significant milestone. But for most applicants, the next step — the pre-employment psychological evaluation — raises a lot of questions. What does the evaluation involve? How long does it take? Does a mental health history automatically disqualify someone? And how is the eva

In Part 1 of this guide, we covered the legal framework governing ADA and FEHA psychological evaluations in California — when they are permissible, what standards apply, and what employers are and are not allowed to do. In Part 2, we get practical: how to order an evaluation correctly, what the process involves, how to use the report, and the common mistakes that expose clients to liability. Missed Part 1? Read it here: ADA Psychological Evaluations in California: A Legal Gui

Introduction: Why This Matters More Than Ever Mental health claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California's Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) are rising steadily. According to the EEOC , mental health-related charges now represent one of the fastest-growing categories of disability discrimination claims. For California employers, HR teams, and the attorneys who counsel them, understanding when — and how — a psychological evaluation can be lawfully

What Veterans in San Diego Should Expect Many veterans pursue careers in law enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security, and other public safety agencies after military service. These careers offer meaningful opportunities to continue serving the public while using leadership and operational skills developed in the military. However, many public safety positions require applicants to complete a fitness-for-duty psychological evaluation before being h

In some criminal cases, untreated mental illness can play a significant role in a person’s behavior. California law allows certain defendants to receive treatment instead of incarceration when mental illness substantially contributed to the alleged offense. This process, known as mental health diversion, is governed by California Penal Code §1001.36. The law allows courts to pause criminal proceedings so eligible defendants can participate in treatment programs addressing und

Attorneys frequently encounter cases where psychological factors play a significant role in legal outcomes. Questions about mental health, emotional distress, disability, credibility, or behavioral functioning can become central issues in both civil and administrative litigation. In these situations, retaining a forensic psychologist can provide courts with objective, evidence‑based opinions grounded in scientific assessment methods. A qualified forensic psychologist conducts

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) share symptoms but require different treatment. Learn the differences, overlap, and why accurate psychological evaluation matters in clinical and legal contexts.

Do you feel restless, distracted, or overwhelmed? Many people wonder whether they’re living with ADHD or anxiety, especially when the symptoms seem to overlap. While both conditions can impact attention, energy, and decision-making, they stem from different causes—and require different approaches to treatment.

Struggling with focus and overwhelm? Learn 5 key differences between ADHD and anxiety—and why a psychological evaluation can help clarify what’s really going on.

Published by Benjamin Felleman, Ph.D. | Licensed Clinical Psychologist | www.drfelleman.com If you're preparing for a mental health evaluation related to Social Security Disability, VA benefits, workplace accommodations, or a legal proceeding, having the correct documentation and forms is essential. At California Psychological Assessment & Consultation Services , we provide clear, comprehensive psychological evaluations and help clients, attorneys, and referring professiona

🧩 What Is a Diagnostic Clarification Evaluation? A diagnostic clarification evaluation is a comprehensive psychological assessment designed to identify, confirm, or rule out mental health conditions. When symptoms overlap or diagnoses are unclear, a diagnostic clarification evaluation offers the clarity needed to move forward confidently. It involves: Clinical interviews Psychological testing Review of relevant records A feedback session with recommendations The goal? Clari

By Dr. Ben Felleman, Clinical Psychologist | California Psychological Assessment & Consultation Licensed in California | 15+ years of experience in adult mental health and substance use evaluations Many people reach out for a psychological evaluation when they’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what’s going on internally. Whether you’re wondering if you might have ADHD or PTSD, are seeking clarity about your mood or memory, or need documentation for therapy, me