Frequently Asked Questions | Psychological Evaluations in San Diego

 

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.

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.

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

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

IIn addition to DSM 5 Substance Use Disorder criteria, I 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.

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.

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.

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

I 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.

Forensic psychologists in San Diego provide evaluations for legal matters such as emotional distress claims, disability cases, and employment disputes. It is important to work with a licensed California psychologist experienced in forensic assessment and legal reporting.

Yes. Services are available throughout San Diego County, including La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and downtown San Diego. Evaluations may be conducted in person or remotely depending on the needs of the case.

Yes. Services are available to clients in North County San Diego, including Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, with flexible options for in-person or remote evaluations.

Yes. Individuals and attorneys in Del Mar, Encinitas, and surrounding areas can access forensic psychological evaluation services locally or via remote appointments.

Yes. Attorneys throughout Southern California frequently refer clients for forensic psychological evaluations. Evaluations can be coordinated efficiently to meet legal timelines.

In many California cases involving emotional distress claims, a psychological evaluation may be used to assess the presence, severity, and cause of symptoms. These evaluations can provide objective evidence in litigation.

Yes. Courts in San Diego and throughout California routinely rely on independent psychological evaluations when they are conducted using accepted forensic methods and clearly address the legal questions at issue.

Yes. Many forensic psychological evaluations can be conducted remotely when appropriate. This allows attorneys and clients across California to work with a qualified forensic psychologist without geographic limitations.

Timelines vary depending on case complexity, but typically include record review, interview, testing, and report writing. Most evaluations are completed over several weeks.

The process typically begins with an initial consultation to clarify the referral question and scope of the evaluation. From there, timelines, fees, and required records are discussed to ensure the evaluation meets legal needs.

A forensic psychological evaluation is a structured, evidence-based assessment conducted for legal purposes rather than treatment. It typically involves a clinical interview, psychological testing, record review, and a written report addressing specific legal questions. These evaluations are commonly used in cases involving psychological injury, disability, employment disputes, and fitness-for-duty determinations.

Psychological evaluations help courts and attorneys understand mental health factors relevant to a case. They can inform decisions about damages, causation, functional impairment, and prognosis. In some cases, the psychologist may also provide expert testimony to explain findings and opinions.

An independent psychological evaluation (IME) is conducted by a psychologist who is not involved in treatment and provides an objective opinion. These evaluations assess diagnosis, functioning, and the relationship between symptoms and a specific event, such as a workplace issue or injury.

A treating therapist focuses on patient care and symptom improvement, while a forensic evaluator provides an objective, unbiased opinion for legal purposes. Forensic evaluations are designed to answer specific legal questions and are not part of treatment.

Common cases include:

• Employment and workplace disputes

• Personal injury cases

• Disability evaluations

• Workers’ compensation claims

• Fitness-for-duty evaluations

Psychological damages are assessed through clinical interviews, standardized testing, and review of relevant records. The evaluation focuses on diagnosis, severity, functional impact, and whether symptoms are causally related to the event in question.

Yes. Forensic psychologists use validated psychological measures designed to assess response validity. These tools help determine whether reported symptoms are consistent with known psychological conditions.

A comprehensive report typically includes background information, methods, test results, diagnostic impressions, and clearly reasoned opinions that address the legal referral questions. Reports are written to be understandable and defensible in legal settings.