VA & Military Independent Evaluations

Schedule Screening Call

Whether it's the military requesting a quick turnaround for a mental health exam or the need for a second medical opinion I am ready to help! The VA will accept a disability benefits questionnaire (DBQ) from civilian psychologists, but it's important that the process is completed by an experienced professional. As a civilian psychologist, I have worked with QTC, VES and LHI, all subcontractors to the VA, performing psychological evaluations. Because I've conducted various psychological disability exams (e.g., post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders and other mental disorders) I understand VA terms and legal statements which must be included in reports in order to be more likely to be considered valid and less likely to be rejected. l have also submitted second medical opinions when an initial claim is rejected. Another perk - I am a Veteran who has gone through the process myself.

I have performed all of the following and more:

Medical Evaluation Board Psychiatric Narratives
Commander Directed Mental Health Evaluations
Sanity Boards
Security Clearance Psychological Interviews
Temporary Duty Retirement List Evaluations
VA Compensation and Pension Psych. Evals.
Second Medical Opinions

Independent Psychological Evaluations

Mental Health professionals such as a licensed doctorate-level psychologist are qualified to perform initial and review C&P examinations for mental disorders.

What I need from you

All documentation of your mental health records. You have the right to a copy of these record. If you don't already have these records, To request a complete copy of your military medical record, you can submit a Request Pertaining to Military Records (SF 180) to the relevant organization. You can request them in person at your last military hospital or clinic.

How long is the appointment?

These appointments include a few steps:

Review of your medical records. Completing DBQ-relevant questions and clinical interview.

The interview itself typically lasts 60 minutes and takes place in one session.

When is it best to request an independent psychological evaluation?

My recommendation is that you apply for benefits first through the VA because it is free and you may get the comepensation you deserve right from the beginning. If you are denied a disability, and you believe the decision was wrong, then an independent evaluation may be helpful.

What is your fee?

Depending on how many pages of your medical records need to be reviewed, I charge between $700-$900. Payment must be made in advance (at the time of record review) but the clinical interview will be scheduled within 7-days of paperwork submission.

Give me a call to discuss your situation

Because I'm a retired Air Force psychologist, I believe in helping my fellow service members. That means that I'll talk to you about your situation and share my opinion about whether I think it's worth the time, money and effort to go forward with an independent evaluation. I've done this on a regular basis before scheduling anyone because I respect the service of every veteran.

Military Uniforms from all services on display on hangars

Elaine Foster, Ph.D.