Will Social Security send you to a psychologist?Social Security has to make medical determinations and certain evidence is required by law to make those determinations. If you have alleged a mental condition with no treatment or you have treatment in the past but nothing current, you may be sent to a psychologist for a mental status examination to determine what is going on with your mental condition. Additionally, if you allege you have a learning disorder or your mental capacity has changed due to the effects of a stroke, you may be sent for intelligence quotient, or IQ testing for your disability claim. However, Social Security will not send you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for actual treatment, as they are only interested in determining how limiting your mental condition may be. Social Security disability is about functionality rather than specific mental or physical conditions. If your mental condition causes significant limitations, you may be awarded disability. If you are sent to a consultative examination with a mental health professional (psychologist, counselor, or psychiatrist), Social Security will pay for your evaluation. If you are requested to attend an exam, you must attend the examination or your claim will be denied for failure to attend a consultative examination or failure to cooperate. They would not pay for something that was not integral to your disability determination. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: How long does it take to get SSI Disability Benefits? Can I get Retroactive SSI Disability Benefits? What Are The Odds of Winning A Social Security Disability Appeal? Social Security and Disability Benefits for Children Social Security Disability Representation - Lawyers and Representatives Winning Social Security Disability or SSI Disability Qualifications and How to Qualify for Benefits Social Security Disability and SSI Overview Requirements for Disability Social Security Disability and SSI Applications How long does it take for Social Security Disability SSI? Social Security Disability and SSI Denials Social Security Mental Disability Benefits Questions about SSI Disability Benefits Social Security Disability Back Pay Benefits Social Security Disability SSI Awards and Award Notices Social Security Disability Back Pay Benefits Social Security Disability SSI and Doctors |
