Independent Psychological VA Nexus Evaluations
Evidence-based psychological assessments supporting VA disability claims.
About This Practice
Independent, evidence-based psychological evaluations for VA disability claims. Grounded in clinical best practices and a deep understanding of VA standards, my approach is thorough, trauma-informed, and objective.
What to expect:
- Structured Evaluation: Accurate symptom documentation and clear clinical rationale.
- Wide Accessibility: Telehealth assessments available in 40+ states via PSYPACT.
- Veteran Centered: A process that is fair, comprehensive, and respectful of your service.
Evaluation Services & Fees
Free 15-Minute Phone Consultation
A brief introductory call to discuss your needs and determine if an independent evaluation is the right fit for your claim.
Psychological Nexus Evaluation - $500 (Flat Fee)
A comprehensive assessment to clarify the link between your mental health and military service. This includes:
- Clinical Interview: Conducted via secure telehealth over video or phone.
- Symptom Review: Thorough documentation of current psychological symptoms.
- Record Integration: Review and integration of available service and treatment records.
- Medical Opinion: Includes a clarification review or medical opinion when appropriate at no extra cost.
Note: All evaluations are conducted via telehealth for veterans located in authorized PSYPACT states.
Service Areas
Authorized to practice via PSYPACT mobility privileges
Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
North Carolina
North Dakota
Northern Marianas
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
PSYPACT participation allows for multi-state telehealth mobility. View the current PSYPACT map here.
For Veteran Support Professionals
Information for VSOs, accredited representatives, attorneys, and other professionals who support
veterans with disability claims
I provide independent psychological nexus evaluations to clarify the link between a veteran’s mental health and their military service.
Collaboration & Referrals: I welcome referrals from VSOs, attorneys, and accredited agents. While not required, the following documentation helps strengthen the evaluation:
- Service Records: Rating decision letters & service treatment records
- Supporting Statements: Prior assessments or personal veteran statements
The Workflow
1. Referral: Share my contact info with the veteran
2. Consult: Veteran schedules a free 15-minute call
3. Evaluation: Conducted via secure telehealth
4. Delivery: Comprehensive DBQ Report delivered within 7-10 days
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Yes. Brief follow-up clarifications or minor addendums requested by the VA are included at no additional cost to ensure the medical opinion is fully understood by the rater.
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Yes. If the VA requests further information regarding an appeal, HLR, or rebuttal for the initial claim I evaluated, I provide brief clinical clarifications or supplemental statements at no additional cost.
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Yes. While veterans can use my secure portal, I also accept records directly via email with the veteran’s consent. This ensures all relevant service and treatment records are integrated into the final clinical rationale.
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I am authorized to practice via PSYPACT in 40+ participating states. This allows me to conduct telehealth evaluations for veterans across most of the U.S.
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No. I am an independent private provider and do not have direct access to VA systems (like VBMS) or communicate directly with VA raters. My role is to provide a comprehensive, objective report that the veteran or their representative submits as evidence.
VSO Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Answers to common questions
about the evaluation process,
what to expect, and how I
support you and your VSO
throughout your claim
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Not necessarily. While the VA does not require a private evaluation, it can be highly beneficial if your claim was previously denied due to a lack of "service connection" or if a C&P examiner’s report didn't fully capture your clinical history. My reports provide an objective, evidence-based second opinion to support your claim.
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Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is conducted by a VA-contracted provider to determine a disability rating. In contrast, my Independent Psychological Evaluation is a private, comprehensive clinical assessment focused on providing the detailed clinical rationale and medical nexus (link) required to bridge specific evidentiary gaps in your record.
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The process is designed to be straightforward and veteran-centered:
Consultation: A free 15-minute introductory call to discuss your specific needs.
Evaluation: A clinical interview conducted via secure telehealth.
Delivery: You receive a comprehensive DBQ report within 7–10 days.
Ready to get started? Schedule your free consultation below to see if an independent evaluation is right for your claim.
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You have two easy options for sharing your documents:
Email: Most veterans prefer to email their records directly to info@ottatipsych.com
VSO Support: Your Veteran Service Officer (VSO) or representative can also email records directly to me with your consent.
Secure Portal: If you prefer, I can provide a link to a HIPAA-compliant portal where you can securely upload your documents.
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No. I do not accept insurance for VA Nexus Evaluations. These assessments are considered forensic rather than therapeutic services, and insurance providers typically do not cover evaluations for legal or administrative claims. Payment is handled as a $500 flat fee.
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No. Ethical guidelines and VA regulations strictly prohibit any provider from guaranteeing a specific outcome or rating. My role is to provide an honest, objective, and evidence-based medical opinion based solely on your service records and clinical presentation.
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I am authorized to provide telehealth evaluations in 40+ participating states via PSYPACT. This allows me to support veteran across the majority of the U.S. from my secure virtual office.
Contact
If you have questions or would like to schedule a brief consultation, you can reach me securely using the options provided here
Contact Dr. Ottati if you have questions or would like to schedule a brief consultation, please reach out using the options below. I typically respond within 1-2 business days.
Email
info@ottatipsych.com
Phone
(512) 910-5090
Please leave a brief message—voicemail is checked regularly
Important Note: I provide independent psychological evaluations only and do not offer ongoing therapy. If you are in crisis, please contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1.