Psychological evaluations are sometimes requested by courts, attorneys, or other legal entities to help answer specific clinical questions.

These evaluations may involve children, parents, adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, or individuals whose psychological functioning is relevant to legal proceedings.

Every evaluation is individualized, evidence-based, and tailored to the referral question.

My role is to provide objective clinical findings-not to advocate for either party or determine legal outcomes.

Is This Evaluation Right for My Situation

• A judge has ordered a psychological evaluation.
• An Attorney has recommended a psychological assessment to answer a specific clinical question.
• A child's emotional, behavioral, or developmental functioning requires objective evaluation.
• A parent's psychological functioning has been identified as relevant to the referral question.
• Documentation regarding intellectual or adaptive functioning is needed for legal proceedings.
• An agency has requested psychological assessment to assist with decision-making.
• A comprehensive psychological evaluation has been requested as part of a legal matter.

Types of Court-Ordered Referrals

• Psychological evaluations of children.
• Psychological evaluations of parents.
• Custody-related psychological evaluations when psychological assessment is requested by the court.
• Competency and decision-making evaluations for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
• Disability-related psychological evaluations requested by attorneys or agencies.
• Diagnostic clarification requested by the court.
• Other court-ordered evaluations that fall within the scope of clinical psychological practice.

My Role

Every legal referral begins with a clearly defined referral question.

My responsibility is to conduct a thorough psychological evaluation using established assessment methods and provide objective clinical findings that answer that question.

My evaluations may assist the court in making decisions. I do not advocate for either party or make legal determinations. My role is to provide independent clinical information that supports the legal process while remaining within the scope of my professional expertise.

Services Not Offered

• Criminal forensic evaluations
• Competency to stand trial evaluations
• Criminal responsibility or insanity evaluation
• Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs)
• Personal injury or litigation evaluations outside the scope of clinical psychological practice
• Evaluations requiring opinions beyond clinical expertise or Arkansas licensure

Thoughtful Evaluations, Objective Findings, Clinical Integrity

Legal proceedings often involve complex questions and significant life decisions. My role is to provide careful, evidence-based psychological evaluations that answer the referral question with professionalism, objectivity, and respect for everyone involved.

If you're an individual, attorney, or referral source seeking a psychological evaluation within my scope of practice. I'd be happy to discuss your referral and determine whether Abound Psychological Services is the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions