Frequently Asked Questions
We’re here to make your evaluation process simple and transparent from the start.
Yes. A private examination can be submitted as evidence to the VA. In many cases, it provides stronger support than a C&P exam alone.
What veterans often call a “nexus letter” is already included in every Independent Medical Examination (IME) we provide. Each IME contains a full nexus-style opinion section — the VA-accepted equivalent of a nexus letter — as part of a comprehensive, VA-compliant report.
This opinion is based on a 50–90-minute clinical interview, a DSM-5-TR diagnostic assessment (if clinically indicated), and a detailed medical rationale that directly connects your condition to your service. That’s exactly the type of competent medical evidence VA adjudicators look for when deciding disability claims and appeals.
Yes. Our psychologists can complete Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) when clinically appropriate. DBQs are offered as a separate optional service, and all details — including scope and cost — are clearly discussed with you before you make any decision. In addition to DBQs, every examination includes a comprehensive narrative nexus-style opinion, which the VA considers strong independent medical evidence.
Yes. Many veterans come to us after receiving a denial or a low rating based on previous exams. Our reports can be submitted during appeals, supplemental claims, or rating increase requests and may strengthen your case by providing additional competent medical evidence.
No referral is needed. You can contact us directly to schedule your examination.
Yes. The VA accepts competent medical evidence from private licensed psychologists. Our reports are structured to meet the evidentiary standards defined in CFR §3.159 so adjudicators can rely on them.
A C&P exam is typically brief and checklist-driven. A private IME is a comprehensive examination and report by a licensed psychologist that includes a full diagnostic opinion.
Yes. The VA must consider all competent medical evidence, not just what’s in a C&P exam. Many veterans submit our IME reports as independent medical evidence during supplemental claims or appeals. These reports often help veterans pursue a higher rating or establish service connection that was previously denied.
Important Note:
The IME report we provide is specifically prepared for the VA disability claim you are pursuing. It is not intended—and cannot be used—as supporting documentation for unrelated claims (e.g., Social Security, workers’ compensation, or private insurance). Each program requires evidence that meets its own standards, and our report is written to satisfy CFR §3.159 for VA purposes only.
Other Common Questions
Understand more about our IME evaluation process and why it works.
Mental Health Conditions We Evaluate for VA Disability
We evaluate PTSD, depression, anxiety, military sexual trauma (MST), and other service-connected psychological conditions.
Many veterans assume conditions like anxiety or chronic pain aren’t service-related. Our examinations review your history and symptoms to determine whether the condition seems to be primary or secondary to service. If appropriate, we provide the medical rationale that ties your condition to your service.
How Our VA Disability IME Process Works
Each examination includes a private, in-depth virtual clinical interview (50–90 minutes), a comprehensive review of all relevant records, and a detailed written report that follows DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria, provides a nexus-style opinion linking your condition to your service (if clinically indicated), and is drafted to satisfy CFR §3.159’s evidentiary requirements.Reports undergo internal quality control and are backed by a team united by shared values, training, and mission.
Note: In Maryland, examinations may be performed by a board-registered psychological associate under the supervision and final sign-off of a licensed PhD or PsyD psychologist. The associate is part of our employed clinical team and follows the same standards, training, and veteran-focused approach.
Just fill out our contact form or call our office. We’ll answer any questions, explain the next steps, and send you everything you need to move forward.
Our fees are always discussed transparently before scheduling, so you’ll know exactly what’s included and what to expect. Every IME includes a comprehensive evaluation, record review, and a nexus-style medical opinion that meets VA evidentiary standards — never itemized add-ons or hidden costs. If any optional services such as a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) are relevant to your case, we’ll outline those separately in advance so you can decide what’s right for you.
All examinations are conducted remotely using secure video conferencing through our HIPAA-compliant platform.
You’ll meet one-on-one with a licensed psychologist who will review your background, ask structured questions, and conduct a thorough assessment through secure telehealth. Most sessions last 50–90 minutes and feel similar to a detailed conversation rather than a test.
After your appointment, your evaluator drafts a comprehensive report within 7–10 business days. You’ll receive your finalized documentation electronically, ready to share with your representative or submit directly to the VA.
Why Veterans Trust Our VA Psychological IMEs
Examinations are conducted or overseen by a licensed PhD or PsyD psychologist employed by our practice. We do not use contractors. You’ll work directly with a qualified professional who understands VA disability standards and evidentiary requirements.
Reports undergo internal quality control and are backed by a team united by shared values, training, and mission.
Note: In Maryland, examinations may be performed by a board-registered psychological associate under the supervision and final sign-off of a licensed PhD or PsyD psychologist. The associate is part of our employed clinical team and follows the same standards, training, and veteran-focused approach.
We’ve helped thousands of Veterans nationwide. Our team is experienced, licensed, and focused on veteran examinations — not general therapy or outsourced assessments. Our reports are VA-compliant, thorough, and designed to provide the type of evidence the VA must consider when deciding claims.
Many IME companies outsource or automate their evaluations. Our team is 100% in-house and veteran-focused. You’ll work directly with licensed psychologists who specialize in VA standards — ensuring every report meets evidentiary requirements and reflects your story with accuracy and care.
Each report includes a full nexus-style opinion, DSM-5-TR diagnostic clarity, and a detailed rationale written specifically for VA adjudicators. This combination helps ensure your evidence carries more weight in decisions and appeals.
Take the First Step
Every examination is completed by a licensed doctoral-level psychologist, written to meet VA evidentiary standards, and delivered within 7–10 business days.