Mind Over Matter Psychological Services provides objective medico-legal psychological assessment and reporting for solicitors, insurers and other referring professionals. Our approach is directed by the referral questions, the available evidence and the psychologist’s professional scope.

What a medico-legal psychological assessment may address

Depending on the referral, an assessment may address:

Current psychological symptoms and mental state.
DSM-5-TR diagnosis and differential diagnostic considerations.
Functional impact and activities of daily living.
Treatment history, current treatment needs and prognosis.
Psychological factors affecting rehabilitation or return to work.
Consistency between self-report, clinical presentation and available records.
Risk factors where this falls within the referral question and professional scope.
Other clinically relevant questions raised in the letter of instruction.

Evidence considered

The assessment process may include clinical interview, mental state examination, review of relevant records, psychometric assessment where indicated, and consideration of collateral or documentary information.

Clear distinctions are maintained between documented fact, allegation, self-report, clinical observation, inference and professional opinion.

Objective opinion

The purpose of medico-legal assessment is to provide a clear and defensible psychological opinion, not to advocate for a predetermined outcome. Any existing treating relationship is identified where relevant, and conclusions are limited to matters for which there is an adequate evidentiary and professional basis.

If the available information is incomplete, inconsistent or insufficient to support a firm opinion, that limitation is identified in the report.

Referrals

Referrers should provide a clear letter of instruction, the questions to be addressed, relevant medical and psychological records, factual material, prior reports and any applicable deadlines.

For court-related work, see our Court Report service. To discuss a referral, call 1300 200 358 or email enquiry@mindovermatter.net.au.