TSA Air Marshall additional medical evaluation
(mental health exam)
These evaluations occur when a job candidate for the air marshal service needs additional information for medical clearance. Typically this occurs when their record reveals a history of mental health treatment or special education. Oftentimes psychological testing is required for diagnostic clarification. This testing could include tests like the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI), Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-3 (MMPI-3), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS), Trail Making Test (TMT), or Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function–Adult (BRIEF-A). A licensed psychologist administers the testing and interviews the candidate, and they then provide an opinion on their suitability for the air marshal program according to standard guidelines.
Dr. Tarescavage is a widely-published expert on readiness evaluations for high risk occupations (e.g., policing). He also routinely conduct mental health waiver consultations for Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS) and has worked as a contractor for the DOD to aide in psychological screening of colonels for the Us Army. He is also on the panel of FAA evaluators for psychological screening of air traffic control candidates. His evaluations comply with the highly-regarded California POST criteria. They are defensible and credible assessments for supporting medical clearance for US air marshals. He completes these assessments in-person or virtually so long as the candidate is physically located in a participating PSYPACT state (40 states).
The evaluation lasts approximately 2.5 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 1-2 hours of psychological testing. This testing generally includes the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-3 (MMPI-3) and a very detailed history questionnaire, as well as any other testing that has been requested by the TSA Medical Office. 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 air marshal service. After the evaluation is completed, Dr. Tarescavage will write a 2 to 3 page letter detailing his findings and opinions. The candidate will receive the report within three business days of the evaluation.
These evaluations are civil forensic assessments, which include police officer psychological screening, civil competency assessment, fitness for duty, guardianship evaluations, and threat assessments.