Independent Psychiatric Assessments

Overview

Independent Psychiatric Assessments

An Independent psychiatric examination (otherwise known as non-treating psychiatric examination) is a comprehensive, objective evaluation of an individual's mental health status, conducted by an independent psychiatrist with no prior treating relationship.

Every report is prepared by Dr. Saligheh — a Canadian-trained psychiatrist with specialized expertise in occupational and medico-legal psychiatry, including experience with the Canadian Armed Forces and Workers' Compensation Board — and is grounded in current diagnostic standards, evidence-based practice, and a clear understanding of the medico-legal context.

Objective, evidence-based clinical opinion
Clear, well-structured reports tailored to legal standards
Timely turnaround without compromising quality
Professional communication with all referring parties
Available for expert testimony and addenda as required

Who We Serve

Insurance companies (STD, LTD, life)
Plaintiff and defence legal counsel
Workers' Compensation Boards
Employers and occupational health services
Employee Assistance Programs

Scope of Assessment

What We Evaluate

Diagnostic Clarification

We provide clear, evidence-based diagnoses in cases where prior assessments are unclear, conflicting, or incomplete — offering a well-reasoned clinical formulation grounded in current diagnostic standards.

Causation Analysis

We examine whether a specific event, exposure, or occupational factor is a material contributing cause of the individual's psychiatric condition, distinguishing pre-existing vulnerabilities from acute precipitants.

Functional Capacity

We assess how a psychiatric condition impacts an individual's ability to perform occupational duties, activities of daily living, and interpersonal functioning — with direct reference to job demands and workplace context.

Prognosis & Treatment

We provide a prognosis with respect to recovery trajectory and return-to-work capacity, including recommendations for appropriate treatment interventions.

Disability Evaluation

We assess whether a psychiatric condition meets the threshold for disability under applicable policy definitions, and evaluate the severity and expected duration of functional impairment.

Credibility & Consistency

We evaluate the internal consistency of reported symptoms, their consistency with observed behaviour, and their alignment with the documented clinical history.

Our Process

How It Works

Our assessment process is designed to be thorough, efficient, and responsive to the needs of referring organizations. We maintain clear communication throughout and deliver reports within agreed timelines.

01

Referral & File Review

We accept referrals from insurers, legal professionals, employers, and workers' compensation programs. All relevant documentation — medical records, clinical notes, employment records, and any prior assessments — is reviewed in advance of the clinical interview.

02

Clinical Interview

A comprehensive psychiatric interview is conducted with the examinee, typically lasting 2–3 hours. The interview explores psychiatric history, current symptoms, functional status, occupational background, psychosocial history, and relevant life events.

03

Collateral Review

Where available, collateral documentation is reviewed including treatment records, employer reports, surveillance information, and prior medicolegal opinions. Collateral interviews may be arranged with consent.

04

Report Preparation

A detailed, structured medico-legal report is prepared, addressing the specific questions posed by the referral source. Reports are written clearly, in plain language where appropriate, and adhere to applicable professional and legal standards.

05

Addendum & Testimony

Expert testimony is available in arbitration, tribunal, or court proceedings at additional cost.

About Your Assessor

Dr. Saligheh, MD

Canadian-trained psychiatrist with specialized expertise in occupational and medico-legal psychiatry. Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC) and Associate of the Canadian Board of Occupational Medicine (ACBOM).

Experience includes work with the Canadian Armed Forces and the Workers' Compensation Board, with expertise in complex workplace psychiatric injuries, disability, and return-to-work capacity.

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Independent Psychiatric Assessments