This is a specialized evaluation and interview by a licensed psychologist to determine whether a public safety applicant meets the minimum requirements for psychological suitability, as well as any other criteria established by the hiring agency. Services include a 1-hour interview, MMPI testing/interpretation, and a review of available background, polygraph, or application materials. Clinical interviews are critical in validating the test results and verifying that the candidate has provided a truthful account of their behaviors and psychological functioning. Agencies will receive clear feedback as to whether the candidate is fit, unfit, or marginally acceptable.
For Law Enforcement Candidates (ILEA) - We will provide departments with the psychologist's evaluation report, any required ILEA or MFPRSI forms. We will submit required MMPI score data directly to the ILEA.
For Firefighter Candidates of MFPRSI agencies - We will provide departments with the psychologist's evaluation report, the required MFPRSI form and required elements of the MMPI computerized report (excluding scores or item specific information to protect test security). Departments will be responsible for sending these materials to MFPRSI.
The MMPI-2 is our preferred test due to its extensive research support for high-security jobs and its psychometric properties that allow it to detect problematic personality characteristics through subtle items and interpretive strategies. Although the two tests share a name and some similarities in items, they are quite different tests. The MMPI-3 should be considered an alternative to the MMPI-2 rather than a replacement.
The MMPI-2 remains a highly useful test for public safety positions such as corrections, dispatch, and non-MFPRSI firefighters.
Typically scheduled several days to one week following a critical incident, this 1-on-1 evaluation includes screening for possible psychological symptoms that may arise out of exposure to a critical incident. Education and brief intervention are delivered to promote resilience, adaptive responding, and mitigate any symptoms present. When clinically indicated, referrals for further treatment will be provided.
A formal, specialized evaluation of an incumbent employee that results from (1) objective evidence that the employee may be unable to safely or effectively perform a defined job (e.g., performance records, supervisor observations) and (2) a reasonable basis for believing that the cause may be attributable to a psychological or cognitive condition. The central purpose of an FFDE is to determine whether the employee is able to safely and effectively perform his or her essential job functions. Hourly rate applies to all FFDE services including review of records, conferences with supervisors, analysis and reporting, and cognitive/psychological testing as needed. Agencies receive a detailed report, direct responses to questions posed regarding causation, fitness, and any impairments or restrictions. We will provide recommendations for treatment and reassessment as needed.
As a proactive mental health wellness initiative, annual check-ins foster an environment where public safety professionals feel comfortable seeking help before issues interfere with their functioning. These check-ins are neither evaluations nor treatment; rather, they are educational and consultative meetings designed to promote resilience, enhance adaptive coping, and reduce stigma around help-seeking.
The check-ins are highly confidential and comply with mandatory reporting requirements. They are not fitness evaluations, and departments receive only verification of attendance. This privacy encourages attendees to speak openly about any concerns. Early intervention for challenges such as substance misuse, suicidality, and burnout can help restore and support previously effective employees.
Because this approach is proactive, participants do not need to have a "problem" to benefit. Many attendees appreciate the opportunity to focus on improving their well-being, gain insights into their relationships with peers and family, and make it to retirement healthy.
This service is provided by licensed psychologists and mental health therapists with experience working with first responders. They understand the stigma surrounding help-seeking and offer concrete strategies for managing stress, improving sleep, and addressing relationship concerns common among public safety professionals. Departments receive verification of attendance and, when appropriate, general feedback to support workforce well-being.
The move from line staff to leadership requires unique skills and a good match between the candidate and agency culture/need/objectives. We offer an independent opinion of the leadership traits and relative vulnerabilities of candidates to help agencies promote the optimal person to lead, supervise, and manage other employees. Based on the distinct needs and objectives of the agency, a custom interview and testing will be delivered to candidates under consideration. These tools are most valuable when several qualified persons are competing for the same position and the agency wants to find the optimal candidate.
This is a highly tailored psychological evaluation for sworn officers that investigates the psychological abilities of candidates to carry out challenging tasks or special assignments where prime psychological functioning and decision-making is critical (e.g., child abuse investigators, narcotics, SWAT, negotiators, K-9, etc.). The candidate’s psychological strengths and vulnerabilities, interpersonal styles, resilience, and traits vital for effective service are detailed according to the position and agency’s specified needs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE) are first-line gold standard treatments for psychological conditions like posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Licensed psychologists have the highest level of training in the assessment and treatment of mental health conditions commonly experienced by public safety professionals. Our use of effective evidence-based treatments, delivered by competent and experienced professionals with an understanding of the lives of public safety professionals, improves outcomes and helps return employees to optimal functioning in a timely manner.
Bringing the clinical knowledge and practical application of psychology to public safety is our passion. We can customize trainings to cover nearly any topic in psychology and make it applicable to your personnel and their duties. Common topics include Managing Stress, Active Listening, CIT, De-escalation, Hostage Negotiations, Peer Support, and Diagnosis-Specific Training (e.g., Depression/Suicide, PTSD, Psychosis, Bipolar, Addictions).
Satisfies Iowa mandatory in-service mental health training requirements for law enforcement officers (501 IAC 8.1). Delivered by ILEA-approved instructors who are licensed psychologists. Officers will receive accurate information about mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia. The goals of this training are to reduce stigma, increase knowledge, and improve police responses to persons with mental illnesses through the provision of practical guidance on assisting persons experiencing a mental health crisis.
When you have questions or concerns, are seeking to improve your programs, or just don’t know what to do with a situation involving mental health, give us a call.