A Disability Determination Assessment is a specialized psychological evaluation designed to objectively document how mental health symptoms impact an individual’s capacity to maintain gainful employment and perform essential daily activities.
These evaluations are typically requested by individuals applying for disability benefits, their legal representatives, insurance carriers, or administrative agencies (such as the Social Security Administration or private disability insurers) to provide clear, clinical evidence regarding the severity of a psychological impairment.
The primary goal of this assessment is to translate clinical symptoms into functional terms, helping decision-makers understand exactly how a mental health condition limits an individual’s ability to meet the cognitive, social, and emotional demands of a work environment.
Our psychologists conduct thorough, evidence-based evaluations to provide the objective documentation necessary for administrative review.
Detailed documentation of psychiatric impairments, cognitive limitations, and functional deficits specifically aligned with federal Social Security Administration (SSA) guidelines and listings.
Objective clinical assessments to support, document, or appeal private disability insurance claims.
Evaluating psychological injuries, trauma, or psychiatric conditions arising from workplace incidents or occupational stress.
Assessments to assist public or private sector employees in documenting eligibility for specialized disability benefits or medical retirement.
We evaluate specific work-related capabilities, such as the ability to understand and remember instructions, maintain concentration and pace, persist through a standard workday, adapt to workplace changes, and interact appropriately with supervisors and coworkers.
Through standardized testing and clinical interview, we document the frequency, duration, and severity of symptoms related to conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, or cognitive decline.
We assess how psychological symptoms restrict activities outside of work, including personal care, managing household responsibilities, and maintaining social connections, which serves as crucial context for disability determinations.
We review the individual's treatment history, compliance with interventions, and provide a professional opinion on the expected duration of the impairment and potential for future rehabilitation.
The evaluation includes a detailed interview focused on mental health symptoms, treatment history, work history, current functioning, and the specific referral questions being addressed.
Relevant medical, mental health, employment, disability, and other records may be reviewed to better understand the individual's history and current level of functioning.
When appropriate, psychological testing may be used to assess symptoms, cognitive functioning, emotional functioning, and other factors relevant to the referral question.
A written report is typically prepared summarizing the findings, diagnoses, functional limitations, and professional opinions relevant to the disability determination process.
Need to refer someone for an evaluation? Submit a referral and our team will help with the next steps.
Our evaluations are tailored for parental fitness and family court cases, assessing a parent’s ability to provide a safe, supportive environment.