How is a forensic PTSD evaluation different from a therapy note?
A forensic evaluation is designed from the outset to be introduced into a legal record. It includes a structured clinical interview, standardized instruments (typically CAPS-5 and PCL-5), validity testing, and a written report that maps findings onto DSM-5-TR criteria and addresses causation. Therapy notes, by contrast, are contemporaneous progress notes — valuable as corroborative evidence, but not a substitute for a forensic evaluation.
Can my client have both an evaluation and ongoing therapy with Dr. McLeod?
Yes — many personal injury clients benefit from both. The evaluation produces a court-ready document; the treatment produces a contemporaneous clinical record. In most engagements the evaluation comes first and informs the treatment plan, with interim progress summaries provided when you need them for settlement conferences or mediation.
How does the 41-state coverage work?
Dr. McLeod holds an E.Passport and Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) through PSYPACT — the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact. This allows him to deliver clinical services via telepsychology to clients physically located in any of the 41 participating states, without holding a separate license in each. We'll confirm jurisdictional specifics during intake.
How long does an evaluation take, and how soon is the report delivered?
Intake and testing typically run 4–6 clinical hours across one or two sessions, plus scoring and report preparation. Standard delivery is 14 business days from the final testing session. Rush engagements can be accommodated when your trial calendar demands it.
Is Dr. McLeod able to testify if the case doesn't settle?
Dr. McLeod's practice is clinical care with litigation-aware documentation. If your case requires formal expert witness testimony, please raise this during the initial consultation so we can discuss scope, engagement terms, and a mutually workable timeline.
How is this paid for?
Forensic evaluations are typically billed on a flat-fee basis, payable by the firm or under a letter of protection. Ongoing therapy can be billed to insurance, private pay, or under LOP arrangements depending on your case structure. We'll walk through options on the intake call.
Is everything HIPAA-compliant?
Yes. Intake, scheduling, sessions, and records are maintained on HIPAA-compliant infrastructure. Records are released only pursuant to a signed client authorization, and releases to opposing counsel go through your firm.
