Comprehensive
Psychological Assessments
I provide concise, evidence-based assessments designed to diagnose psychological conditions and provide clear treatment recommendations. These assessments typically result in a type of form completion (as with ICBC and many Extended Benefits Plans) or 2 to 4-page written reports, all of which follow well-recognized, standardized DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria. I also provide assessments that are "less formal" in nature.
who I assess
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Individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) - as with ICBC claims
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RCMP members and First Responders
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Persons off work and requiring diagnostic clarity and disability evaluation - excluding WorkSafe BC claims
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Individuals and/or couples wanting to address personal and/or relationship issues
common impairments evaluated
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Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders (AD, ASD, PTSD, Complex PTSD)
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Chronic pain and pain-related disability
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Anxiety (GAD, Social, Health Anxiety), Panic Attacks/Panic Disorder
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Depression, Bipolar illness, sadness, low mood, mood dysregulation, impaired sleep, stress, burnout
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Cognitive issues (concentration, attention, memory)
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A full range of couples' relationship difficulties/impairments
assessment outputs
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Completed forms and comprehensive narrative reports for a variety of needs, including Insurance Claims and disability management (e.g., ICBC, Extended Benefit Plans, RCMP)
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Pensions (e.g., Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, Veterans Affairs Canada)
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Short narrative reports for medical and/or personal use
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Verbal or written summaries for personal use
the process
The assessment process is quite straight-forward. Simply:
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We meet and exchange greetings.
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The reasons for the assessment and the limits of confidentiality are reviewed and agreed upon.
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We conduct a symptom and functional review and we discuss related history – this will or can include medical, accident, disability, psychological, social, and treatment histories – with the amount of history taken dependent upon the nature/needs of the desired assessment.
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We administer a number of brief, valid, evidence-based psychological screening questionnaires that may relate to anxiety, depression, physical pain, sleep, cognitive impairment, physical and/or psychological disability, workplace limitations and restrictions, and so on. These measures can be completed before, during, or after the assessment time block or blocks.
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Diagnostic opinion and recommendations are shared with the person being assessed.
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If a formal report is required, it is prepared and sent to the individual being assessed and/or to the third party requesting this opinion and report.
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Verbal or written summaries can be provided for personal use.