Question 1

Is my assessment confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all evaluations are confidential and protected under HIPAA regulations and California Law. However, if the assessment is court-ordered or requested by an employer, some findings may need to be shared with the requesting party. Additional exceptions to confidentiality include reports of child abuse, elder and vulnerable adult abuse, danger to self, or danger to others.

Question 2

What are the costs for services?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary based on the type of assessment requested and the documentation needed. Comprehensive psychological evaluations are $300/hour and range between two to four hours. Forensic evaluations are $350/hour and will be similar in length, at times longer if collateral interviews are indicated. The fee for expert testimony and depositions is $500/hour. All services require a 50% non-refundable deposit at time of booking.

Question 3

Do you provide court-ordered or DUI-related assessments?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer court-ordered substance use evaluations and DUI assessments that meet state and legal requirements.

Question 4

Can I use my assessment for legal or employment purposes?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the requirements, we provide reports that can be used for legal cases, employment-related evaluations, and professional licensing purposes.

Question 5

What conditions do you assess for?

Accepted Answer

In addition to DSM 5 Substance Use Disorder criteria, we also assess for co-occurring depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), personality disorders, and psychotic-spectrum disorders. Abbreviated screenings for neurodevelopment disorders (e.g., ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder) are also available.

Question 6

What should I expect during an evaluation?

Accepted Answer

The assessment typically includes a clinical interview, standardized questionnaires, review of health or legal records, and a review of relevant history (e.g., medical, legal, family). Collateral information may also be obtained from third parties if authorized by the client. Evaluations are conducted via telehealth and take between two to four hours.

Question 7

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Health insurance is not accepted for services. Clients with PPO plans and out-of-network benefits may be eligible for reimbursement for brief intervention/treatment services. An itemized super-bill will be provided in these cases. Insurance plans will not provide reimbursement for forensic services.

Question 8

What happens after the assessment?

Accepted Answer

We provide a detailed report with findings and recommendations, including levels of care. The report will focus on evidenced-based treatment options and clinical best practices. You will receive your report in 7-10 business days.

Question 9

Can you recommend specific treatment centers or programs?

Accepted Answer

We will provide general recommendations for levels of care according to the American Society for Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria, but not specific service-providers. Whether you choose to pursue formal treatment is a personal decision that will depend on insurance coverage, location, and overall fit.

Frequently Asked Questions | Psychological Evaluations in San Diego

Is my assessment confidential?

What are the costs for services?

Do you provide court-ordered or DUI-related assessments?

Can I use my assessment for legal or employment purposes?

What conditions do you assess for?

What should I expect during an evaluation?

Do you accept health insurance?

What happens after the assessment?

Can you recommend specific treatment centers or programs?

Where can I find a forensic psychologist in San Diego?

Do you provide forensic psychological evaluations throughout San Diego County?

Do you serve North County San Diego?

Are forensic psychological evaluations available near Del Mar or Encinitas?

Can attorneys outside San Diego refer clients for evaluations?

Are psychological evaluations required for emotional distress claims in California?

Do courts in San Diego accept independent psychological evaluations?

Can psychological evaluations be conducted remotely in California?

How long does a forensic psychological evaluation take?

How do I schedule a forensic psychological evaluation in San Diego?

What is a forensic psychological evaluation?

How is a psychological evaluation used in court?

What is an independent psychological evaluation (IME)?

What is the difference between a treating therapist and a forensic evaluator?

What types of cases require a forensic psychological evaluation?

How are psychological damages assessed in legal cases?

Can a psychologist determine if someone is exaggerating symptoms?

What should attorneys expect in a psychological evaluation report?

California Psychological Assessment & Consultation