Help & FAQs
General Information
1. What services does Psychwest offer?
Psychwest offers a range of forensic services, including mental competency evaluations, forensic assessments for juveniles and adults, forensic consultation, and specialized training programs such as the MCAT and CHANCE-M programs.
2. How do I get started with Psychwest?
To get started, please contact us via our “Contact Us” page or call our office to discuss your needs and schedule an initial consultation.
3. Who are your clients?
Our clients include individuals involved in the legal process, legal professionals, and organizations seeking expert guidance in the areas of mental competency, diversion habilitative services, and forensic psychology. Courts, lawyers, doctors, regional centers, probation, government agencies, and mental health institutes are a few of our clients as well!
4. Are your services confidential?
Yes, all services provided by Psychwest are confidential and adhere to the strictest standards of privacy, in accordance with applicable laws, professional ethical guidelines, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Our commitment to HIPAA compliance ensures that our clients’ personal health information is protected, securely stored, and only accessed by authorized individuals.
5. Can I schedule a consultation online?
Yes, all services provided by Psychwest are confidential and adhere to the strictest standards of privacy, in accordance with applicable laws, professional ethical guidelines, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Our commitment to HIPAA compliance ensures that our clients’ personal health information is protected, securely stored, and only accessed by authorized individuals.
Pricing and Payments
1. How much do your services cost?
As each case is unique and tailored to the individual’s needs you would require a consultation for your specific case. Please contact us for a consultation, and we can provide a personalized quote based on your requirements.
2. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, personal checks, cashier’s checks, and bank transfers. Please feel free to contact us for more information on the payment options we accept.
3. Do you accept insurance?
Psychwest services may be eligible for reimbursement by some insurance plans; however, it is important to note that forensic services are generally not reimbursable when they are court-connected. Clients are responsible for payment to Psychwest, and we advise contacting your insurance provider to determine if our services qualify for reimbursement under your specific plan. If our services are funded by the courts, probation, a government agency, or a regional center, there may be no out-of-pocket expenses for the customer.
4. Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
We strive to be transparent with our fees, and any additional charges will be discussed during the consultation process. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Our Programs
1. What is the MCAT Program?
The Mental Competency Assessment & Training (MCAT) Program is a specialized training program designed to help juveniles and adults develop the necessary skills and understanding to effectively participate in their legal proceedings. As part of this program, mental competency assessments can also be performed, utilizing the Mental Competency Evaluation Scale (MCES), which provides a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s competency to stand trial. The program includes tailored curricula and testing to ensure a well-rounded approach to competency development.
2. What is the CHANCE-M Program?
The Comprehensive Habilitation & Assessments, Navigating Change through Education and Mentorship (CHANCE-M) Program is a tailored training program focused on providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals with cognitive disabilities or mental health issues who are involved in the legal system. Our objective is to assist these individuals in successfully rejoining the community as responsible and contributing members of society. As a Community Educational, Diversion, Habilitation, and Reintegration Program, we aim to decrease recidivism for juveniles and adults.
We offer a variety of diversion programs, including:
- Chapter 2.5 Special Proceedings in Narcotics and Drug Abuse Cases – Penal Code § 1000 -1000.65
- Chapter 2.7 Misdemeanor Diversion – Penal Code § 1001 -1001.9
- Chapter 2.9 Diversion of Misdemeanor Offenders – Penal Code § 1001.50 -1001.55
- Chapter 2.6 Deferred Entry of Judgment Reentry Program – Penal Code § 1000.8 -1000.10
- Chapter 2.8 Individuals with Cognitive Developmental Disabilities – Penal Code § 1001.20 -1001.34
- Chapter 2.8A Individuals with Mental Disorders – Penal Code § 1001.35 -1001.36
- Chapter 2.9C Military Diversion Program – Penal Code § 1001.80
- Chapter 2.9D Theft and Repeat Theft Crimes Diversion or Deferred Entry of Judgment Program – Penal Code § 1001.81 -1001.82
Through these programs, we strive to support individuals in overcoming their challenges and successfully reintegrating into society as responsible and productive citizens.
3. Who can participate in your programs?
Our programs are designed for juveniles and adults who require specialized support and training related to mental competency due to developmental disabilities or mental health disorders. The Mental Competency Assessment & Training (MCAT) Program specifically targets individuals who are involved in the legal process and are either deemed incompetent to stand trial or require an assessment to determine their competency. On the other hand, our CHANCE-M Diversion Program focuses on reintegrating individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health disorders back into the community as contributing members of society. Participants in our programs are typically referred by outside agencies or the court system, but individuals can also self-refer for a forensic evaluation and are encouraged to call us to discuss their specific needs and circumstances.
4. How long do your programs last?
The duration of our programs varies depending on the individual’s needs, progress, and the legal statutes set by law and the court. Typically, services can range from a few months to a few years, as each individual’s situation is unique. During the initial consultation, we will discuss the expected timeframe for your specific situation, taking into consideration all relevant factors.
Still have Questions
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