Military readiness / mental health waiver

These evaluations occur when a military recruit reports some history of mental health problems or there are current indications of mental health problems that come up while processing the recruit into the military. Certain mental health conditions disqualify recruits from military service unless the recruit obtains a waiver from the US military. Most of the time the recruit is required to have a mental health professional evaluate them and submit the report as supporting evidence for the waiver request. Dr. Tarescavage is a widely-published expert on readiness evaluations for high risk occupations (e.g., policing). His evaluations comply with the highly-regarded California POST criteria. They are defensible and credible assessments for US military readiness. 

The in-person component of the evaluation lasts approximately 2.0 hours and begins with an overview of the purpose of the evaluation as well as a review of the limitations on confidentiality. After introductions, the evaluee typically completes 1 hours of psychological testing. This testing generally includes the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-3 (MMPI-3) and a very detailed history questionnaire. This testing and the detailed history questionnaire provides a comprehensive and objective foundation for a well-informed and impartial screening interview. After testing and background review is completed, Dr. Tarescavage conducts the clinical interview. The  interview involves  focused assessment of psychological characteristics that might interfere with the safe completion of the essential duties of a member of the US military. Finally, Dr. Tarescavage gives the evaluee feedback on their assessment results. After the in-person evaluation is completed, Dr. Tarescavage will complete a record review and collateral contact process (if applicable) and write a 2 to 3 page letter detailing his findings and opinions. The referral source will receive the report within three business days of the evaluation (assuming additional records do not need to be requested). 

These evaluations are civil forensic assessments, which include police officer psychological screening, civil competency assessment, fitness for duty, guardianship evaluations, and threat assessments.