A court-ordered mental health or substance us evaluation typically includes several key components to assess an individual's psychological state and its relevance to the legal context. The specific requirements vary based on the purpose of the evaluation.

A police report or discovery and a copy of the deferred disposition (if present) is required for the clinician to review at least 48 hours prior to the evaluation. The 90-120 minute evaluation may take place in person or via telehealth.

The evaluation costs $295.00. It includes the pre appointment review of the police discovery, deferred disposition, the 90 minute session, an analysis of the test results and a letter thoughtfully summarizing the findings and recommendations if any. There may be an additional fee if both a substance and mental health evaluation is required and more time is needed beyond 90 minutes.

Insurance is not directly billed, however a special receipt (super bill) is offered upon request that may be submitted for partial reimbursement. Cash, check, credit card and HSA is accepted.

Heart Stone charges 50% of the fee at the time of the evaluation. The remaining 50% is collected upon the completion of the evaluation generally 1-2 weeks following the interview.

In a hurry? It may be possible to get a rush on the appointment and report for an additional fee.

Please email hello@heartstonecounseling.com or call 207-613-2470 to first schedule a free 15 minute video consultation to discuss your situation and requirements with our clinicians. A consult is required before the 90-120 minute evaluation is scheduled. You can contact us via email or phone.

The evaluation consists of of various components depending on the reason for the assessment. The following aspects are usually addressed:

1. Referral Information

• Explanation of why the evaluation is being conducted.

• Legal questions to be addressed (HSC most commonly addresses risk assessment. We will not complete evaluations for custody issues or for the purposes of determining criminal responsibility).

• Background on the case or legal situation.

2. Clinical Interview

• An inquiry into the events leading up to the arrest and the impact the arrest has had on the individual.

• Comprehensive history of the individual, including:

  • Personal history

  • Medical history

  • Psychiatric history

  • Substance use history if requested

• Current mental state and symptoms.

4. Brief Psychological Measures

5. Informal Mental Status Examination (MSE)

6. Diagnosis (if applicable)

7. Risk Assessment

8. Strengths and Resources

8. Report Preparation

Presently, Emily Van Cannon is conducting the court-ordered evaluations. Emily was a DEEP certified provider for over five years and has completed hundreds of interviews of people with court involvement. She is well-versed in writing professional and fair summaries for people with legal involvement.