Psychodiagnostic Evaluations
Neuropsychological Evaluations
Forensic Evaluations
Pre-Employment/ Fitness for Duty Evaluations
Serving Norfolk, Hampton Roads, Coastal Virginia, and Beyond
Our Services
Psychodiagnostic Assessments:
Brief Psychodiagnostic Evaluation for Diagnostic Considerations
These types of evaluations help to clarify diagnoses regarding potential mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, personality concerns, and trauma.
These types of evaluations offer brief diagnostic considerations and are not as in-depth as full psychodiagnostic evaluations.
These evaluations do not answer questions regarding cognitive functioning, ADHD, or learning disabilities.
Full Psychodiagnostic Evaluation/Learning Disability Evaluation
Fee includes record review, intake interview, testing, a comprehensive written report, and feedback session.
Full psychodiagnostic evaluations answer questions about emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, posttraumatic stress), personality concerns, and cognitive functioning (i.e., verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed).
Learning Disability Evaluations answer questions about specific learning disabilities/dosorders and also offer treatment/academic accommodations/recommendations for school and work (when appropriate).
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Assessment
These types of assessments include all of the components of a general psychodiagnostic assessment, but also evaluate if an individual meets criteria for ADHD.
Neuropsychological Assessment:
These types of assessments aim to determine if an individual's cognitive and functional abilities have evidenced a decline from their preexisting levels. They are typically recommended by a mental or physical health provider (e.g., neurologist) and can assist in diagnosing various forms of neurocognitive issues (i.e., stemming from dementing processes, traumatic brain injury, physical illness, etc.). Typically, these evaluations require an in-depth review of medical and mental health history, as well as more extensive testing.
Concierge Services:
With concierge services, priority booking, in-home assessment, and faster report turn-around times are provided. Please note, this service is only available for psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessments. This service is also in high demand and thus, is subject to availability.
Generally, online intake appointments, as well as feedback sessions are available, though testing will be face-to-face.
Testing typically takes several hours (e.g., 3 -4 hours for psychodiagnostic assessments and 4 -5 hours for neuropsychological assessments). Accordingly, make sure you have the time to spend most of the day in assessment. Note: regular, though brief breaks are built into the schedule.
Clients opting for in-home services should also note the following:
A clear, clean, and space free of distraction/noise is required. Specifically, an approximate 10 x 10-foot area is necessary for our clinican to set up the testing area. Additionally, no television, telephone, radio, or other entertainment device should be audible. Interruptions by third parties are also highly discouraged. These guidelines are provided to ensure valid testing procedures and results.
We will bring all necessary equipment (i.e., chairs, table, testing materials) to you.
In some cases, an assistant may also be present to facilitate testing.
There should be no safety hazards present (e.g., weapons in/near the testing area, aggressive animals, environmental hazards, etc.).
Because safety and quality are our top priorities, your appointment may be cancelled if any of the above criteria are not met. If this is the case, a $250 fee will be applied regardless of whether you choose to reschedule your appointment for a future date.
Note: Concierge services for Psychodiagnostic and Neuropsychological assessments are available only in the greater Hampton Roads area of Virginia.
Forensic Evaluations:
Competence to Stand Trial Evaluations
When an individual is charged with a criminal offense, the question of competence to stand trial may be raised by either the defendant's attorney or by the court (i.e., the judge or prosecuting attorney). These types of assessments evaluate if an individual has the capacity to stand trial (i.e., is competent) by answering specific questions based in state legal statutes. These questions generally include the following, though vary by state:
Does the defendant possess a factual understanding of the proceedings against them?
Does the defendant possess a rational understanding of the proceedings against them?
Does the defendant have the ability to reasonably consult with his or her counsel in their defense?
Note: in some-but not all-states, defendants must also be shown to have a "qualifying mental disease or defect" to be found "not competent."
Mental State at the Time of the Offense/Criminal Responsibility (Sanity) Evaluations
In some cases, an individual charged with a crime (or their attorney) believes that symptoms of a mental illness contributed to the actions for which they were arrested and charged. When this is the case, a mental state at the time of the offense/criminal responsibility evaluation may be sought. These evaluations are often referred to as "sanity" evaluations. The standard for assessing mental state at the time of the offense/criminal responsibility varies by jurisdiction.
Note: in some-but not all-states, defendants must first be found competent to stand trial before a mental state at the time of the offense/criminal responsibility evaluation may be conducted.
Fitness for Duty Evaluations
When an individual is suspended from their job due to an inability to perform their required functions, an employer will sometimes seek a fitness for duty evaluation to ensure the employee has the mental capacity to safely return to work and to fulfill necessary duties. Typically speaking, the employer seeking the evaluation is the identified client and employees may not be entitled to review their report/findings.
Court-Ordered Forensic Evaluations
Our practice also conducts competence to stand trial and sanity evaluations that have been ordered by the court. In this situation, various courts order forensic evaluators to complete such evaluations and subsequently return the associated results to the court.
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, court-ordered evaluations are conducted by evaluators on the DBHDS Commissioner's List of Approved Forensic Evaluators. These evaluators have undergone specific training in Virginia to be able to complete these evaluations. Our practice is presently on this list.
In Virginia, court-ordered competency to stand trial evaluations consist of record review, a thorough assessment, potential contact with collateral sources, and a written report. The report is submitted to the defense attorney, the Commonwealth's attorney, and the court.
In Virginia, court-ordered sanity evaluations consist of record review, a thorough assessment, interviews with collateral sources of information, and a written report. In sanity evaluations, the report is only submitted to the defense attorney. If the defendant and the defense attorney decide to raise a defense of insanity, they can subsequently submit the report to the court and the Commonwealth's attorney.
*Notes:
In all forensic evaluations, the possibility exists for our experts to testify in court.
Forensic assessments may be available in all participating PSYPACT states. Please visit the following link to see if you are in a PSYPACT member state: https://psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap
Our Team
Maddison Schiafo, PhD
Education:
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX)
Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX)
Master of Arts in Psychology (Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY)
Internship and Postdoctoral Fellowship:
Postdoctoral Residency (Oregon State Hospital, Salem, OR)
Predoctoral Internship (Oregon State Hospital, Salem, OR)
Credentials:
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Virginia)
Virginia Commissioner of DBHDS Approved Forensic Evaluator
About:
Dr. Schiafo completed her doctoral training in Texas, during which time she provided both psychodiagnostic and forensic assessment services across multiple settings, including jails/prisons, an outpatient community clinic, private practice, probation department, and an inpatient state hospital. She completed her internship and postdoctoral residency at Oregon State Hospital, where she provided forensic (i.e., competence to stand trial/criminal responsibility) and psychodiagnostic (e.g., cognitive and personality) evaluations, as well as competency restoration services. After moving to Virginia, Dr. Schiafo also worked as a unit psychologist providing comprehensive competency restoration services, temporary custody evaluations, and competency to stand trial evaluations at Eastern State Hospital in Williamsburg, VA. She now practices in the Hampton Roads area, where she provides forensic and psychodiagnostic assessment services to the courts, as well as the community. In her free time, Dr. Schiafo relaxes by working in her garden and watching movies with her dogs.
Kathryn Scott, PhD
Education:
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX)
Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology (University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK)
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science (University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK)
Internship and Postdoctoral Fellowship:
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Forensic Psychology (University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA)
Predoctoral Internship, Forensic Assessment and Treatment Track (Federal Correctional Complex, Butner, NC)
Credentials:
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Virginia)
Virginia Commissioner of DBHDS Approved Forensic Evaluator
About:
Dr. Scott completed undergraduate and graduate training in Oklahoma before ultimately obtaining her PhD in clinical psychology in Texas. Throughout her education, clinical training, and specialty training, she focused on forensic psychology. Specifically, she obtained extensive training on the provision of forensic evaluations, with a special emphasis on criminal forensic evaluations of competency to stand trial, sanity (mental state at the time of the offense/criminal responsibility), and violence risk. She completed a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology, which was an intensive year of clinical education and training solely focused on forensic psychology. She has extensive experience in providing forensic evaluation services, previously conducting forensic evaluations in multiple states and jurisdictions, including Texas, Massachusetts, Virginia, and for the federal government. Dr. Scott has previously worked in federal prisons, outpatient court clinics, and inpatient psychiatric hospitals, including working as a forensic evaluator at Eastern State Hospital in Williamsburg, Virginia. She has testified as an expert witness on issues of civil commitment, competency to stand trial, and mental state at the time of the offense in both Massachusetts and Virginia. At TriCoastal Psychological Services, Dr. Scott provides forensic evaluations (i.e., competency to stand trial, sanity, violence risk, etc.). She is passionate about working with justice-involved populations and providing high-quality evaluation services to the courts.
Kevin Waymire, PhD (Click here for Dr. Waymire's Psychology Today profile)
Education:
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX)
Master of Arts Clinical Psychology (Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX)
Master of Education in Counseling (University of Houston | Main Campus, Houston, TX)
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (University of Texas at Austin, Austin TX)
Internship and Postdoctoral Residency:
Postdoctoral Residency: Unit Resident Psychologist (Oregon State Hospital, Salem, OR)
Predoctoral Internship: Neuropsychologcal Assessment, Geropsychology, and Forensic Evaluation Service (Oregon State Hospital, Salem, OR)
Credentials:
Licensed Clinical Psychologist (Virginia)
PSYPACT Authorized (i.e., licensed to practice telepsychology in all participating PSYPACT states)
Virginia Commissioner of DBHDS Approved Forensic Evaluator
About:
Dr. Waymire completed his undergraduate and graduate education in Texas, ultimately earning a bachelor's degree in psychology, a master's degree in counseling, as well as a master's degree and doctoral degree in clinical psychology. Throughout his education and clinical practica, he was trained extensively in provision of psychodiagnostic, neuorpsychological, and forensic (competence to stand trial, mental state at the time of the offense/criminal responsibility, and fitness for duty) evaluations. He completed his internship and post-doctoral training at the Oregon State Hospital (Salem, OR)--an inpatient psychiatric facility--where he further focused on forensic and neuropsychological assessment, as well as geropsychology and competency restoration. Dr. Waymire also has extensive experience providing therapy services to individuals facing a variety of difficulties through evidence-based practice. Dr. Waymire now lives and practices in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. In his free time, he enjoys spending days at the beach and relaxing with his dogs.
Pricing
Brief Psychodiagnostic Evaluation for Diagnostic Considerations
$1,000.00 Flat rate
These types of evaluations help to clarify diagnoses regarding potential mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, personality concerns, and trauma.
These types of evaluations offer brief diagnostic considerations and are not as in-depth as full psychodiagnostic evaluations.
These evaluations do not answer questions regarding cognitive functioning, ADHD, or learning disabilities.
Full Psychodiagnostic Evaluation, ADHD Evaluation, or Learning Disability Evaluation
$1,200.00 Flat rate (Fee includes record review, intake interview, testing, a comprehensive written report, and feedback session).
Full Psychodiagnostic Evaluations answer questions about emotional difficulties (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, posttraumatic stress), personality concerns, and cognitive functioning (i.e., verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed).
ADHD Evaluations include all the components of a full psychodiagnotic evaluation, as well as additional testing to assess elements of ADHD.
Learning Disability Evaluations answer questions about specific learning disabilities/disorders and also offer treatment/academic accommodations/recommendations for school and work (when appropriate).
Neuropsychological Assessment
$1,500 Flat rate
Fee includes record review, intake interview, testing, a comprehensive, written report, and feedback session.
Concierge Assessment Package
$3,000 Flat rate
Fee includes record review, intake interview, in-home testing, a comprehensive, written report, and feedback session.
Clients selecting this option will have access to priority booking and report completion.
In home testing applies to areas within the Greater Hampton Roads area (e.g., Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Hampton, Williamsburg, and beyond. Please call for details).
See Our Services section for further details.
Competence to Stand Trial, Mental State at the Time of the Offense/Criminal Responsibility, Fitness for Duty Evaluations, & Psychodiagnostic Evaluations to be Used in Legal Proceedings:
Court-ordered evaluations are paid for by the courts.
$250 per hour (private pay)
Fee includes record review, assessment, and a comprehensive, written report.
Courtroom Testimony
$250 per hour
Fee applies to trial preparation, travel, and all time spent within court itself, including testimony.
FAQ
What should I do if I'm feeling suicidal?
If you are having thoughts of harming yourself or another, please dial 911 immediately. TriCoastal does not have the capacity to assist in a crisis situation.
Does TriCoastal accept insurance?
Currently, TriCoastal only accepts private payment, meaning clients will be responsible for all fees (see Pricing section). However, we can provide you with a Superbill, which you may in turn use for insurance reimbursement purposes. Please note that we cannot guarantee reimbursement.
Additional Note: Fees for court ordered forensic evaluations will be paid by the court.
What psychological services does TriCoastal not currently offer?
We do not currentl offer psychological therapy/counseling.
We do not offer assessments in which autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the primary diagnostic/referral question--that is we do not assess individuals specifically for ASD; however, we do offer assessments for individuals already diagnosed with ASD in which other difficulties (e.g., depression, OCD, ADHD) are the primary diagnostic/referral concern.
We do not currently offer juvenile forensic evaluations.
Do I need a referral from my doctor to be seen by a clinician at TriCoastal?
No. The clinicians at TriCoastal are happy to provide you with assessment or therapy services even if you haven’t been formally referred by your doctor.
What’s the difference between an assessment and an evaluation?
In short, there isn’t one. These terms are often used interchangeably in the field of psychology, though are sometimes formally referred to as one or the other—especially when forensic.
What is a “psychodiagnostic assessment”?
These types of evaluations are conducted to answer many types of referral questions associated with (but not limited to) the following: intellectual functioning, personality characteristics, and symptoms of suspected psychological disorders (e.g., major depression, generalized anxiety, PTSD, etc.). It is common for clients to be referred for psychodiagnostic testing by a physician, such as a PCP or psychiatrist. Other times, individuals simply want to know more about themselves, how they’re functioning, and what types of treatment might be available for the specific psychological difficulties they are facing. The clinicians at TriCoastal Psychological Services are dedicated to answering your questions and finding the assessment most appropriate for your unique case.
What’s the difference between a “psychodiagnostic assessment” and an “ADHD assessment?”
Typically speaking, ADHD evaluations contain most or all the elements of a psychodiagnostic evaluations, though also include specific tests aimed at assessing whether the cognitive and behavioral components of ADHD are present. Physicians often ask their patients to undergo these types of assessments before they will prescribe medications aimed at reducing symptoms of ADHD—a neurodevelopmental disorder. In these cases, an ADHD assessment is very important, as many symptoms of other psychological difficulties (e.g., depression and anxiety)—which are not often effectively be treated by stimulant medication—can mimic symptoms of ADHD.
What is a “neuropsychological assessment?”
When an individual is suspected to have experienced a change or decline in cognitive functioning (e.g., memory, spatial awareness, problem solving abilities, language skills, etc.), said individual may be referred for a neuropsychological assessment. These types of assessments are performed by clinicians who have received special education, comprehensive training, and abundant supervision in the subfield of neuropsychology. Neuropsychological assessments are complex and typically require more extensive record review and testing than most other types of evaluations. Common reasons a client might seek or be referred for a neuropsychological assessment include, but are not limited to, the following: a suspected neurodegenerative process (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, etc.), traumatic brain injury, or other cognitive changes following the onset of medical difficulties.
Do the clinicians at TriCoastal prescribe medications?
No. The clinicians at TriCoastal have their doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, not medicine; however, we may be able to provide a referral to an appropriate care provider.
What are TriCoastal's billing policies?
For psychodiagnostic, ADHD, and neuropsychological assessments:
Payment of a $500 deposit is collected at the time of your first appointment (i.e., intake session). The remainder of the bill is collected after testing and before the feedback session (i.e., last appointment) and release of report.
For private pay forensic assessments:
A retainer of $500 is due prior to the initiation of the assessment. The remainder of the bill will be calculated based on the associated hourly rate (see Pricing) and will be due prior to the release of the report.
For all assessments: reports will not be released until final payment is collected.
How can I pay for services?
Debit/credit card (in person, over the phone, or via a direct link we can send you upon request)
Cashier's check
Money order
Apple Pay
Android Pay
Please note: TriCoastal does not accept cash or payment through applications such as PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App.
Contact Us
By Phone:
(757) 204 - 5701 (For Therapy and Psychodiagnostic/ADHD/Neuropsychological Evaluations)
(757) 204 - 5739 (For Forensic Evaluations)
By Fax: (757) 295-8077
By Email: office@tricoastalpsych.com
Please note: We are not currently hiring for any positions, nor are we currently accepting undergraduate/graduate practicum students or interns.
