WorkSafeBC Psychological Assessments
What to expect.
AnchorPointe Counselling Group provides comprehensive psychological assessments in connection with WorkSafeBC claims. Assessments are conducted with professionalism, sensitivity, and respect for each individual’s circumstances, with attention to both psychological health and occupational functioning.
Purpose of the Assessment
A psychological assessment helps clarify mental health concerns, determine whether a psychological diagnosis is appropriate, and describe how symptoms affect daily life and work. Depending on the referral, it may also examine the relationship between psychological concerns and workplace events or injuries.
The findings can inform decisions about treatment, recovery, rehabilitation, and return to work. Assessments may address concerns such as posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, and the psychological effects of physical injury or persistent pain.
The Assessment Process
Referral and Scheduling
The process begins with a review of the referral and the questions WorkSafeBC has asked the psychologist to address. Before your appointment, we explain the assessment process and provide instructions about any information or preparation required.
Records Review and Informed Consent
Your psychologist reviews relevant available documentation, which may include claim information, medical records, treatment reports, and previous assessments.
Before proceeding, we explain the purpose and scope of the assessment, confidentiality and its limits, and how the report will be shared with WorkSafeBC. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and provide informed consent.
Clinical Interview and Psychological Measures
The assessment includes a detailed clinical interview about your background, employment history, workplace events or injuries, symptoms, treatment, and current circumstances. We explore how your symptoms have developed over time and how they affect activities, relationships, and work-related abilities.
Standardized psychological questionnaires are also used to support a comprehensive understanding of your symptoms and functioning. No special preparation is required. You are encouraged to describe your experiences openly and accurately, including both your difficulties and the activities you remain able to perform.
Assessment Report
Your psychologist integrates the interview findings, psychological test results, and available records into a written report addressing the referral questions. Depending on the assessment’s scope, the report may include:
- Relevant personal, medical, and employment history.
- The nature, severity, and course of psychological symptoms.
- Diagnostic findings.
- An opinion regarding the relationship between psychological conditions and workplace events or injuries.
- Psychological abilities, limitations, and restrictions relevant to daily life and work.
- Recommendations for treatment, rehabilitation, and return-to-work support.
- An opinion regarding the anticipated course of recovery.
A Respectful and Individualized Approach
We recognize that discussing workplace experiences, injuries, and mental health concerns can be challenging. The assessment is conducted sensitively, with clear explanations and opportunities to ask questions or request breaks.
Our role is to provide a balanced, evidence-based opinion. This includes considering your reported experiences, the available documentation, assessment findings, and the strengths and supports that contribute to your functioning.
How the Assessment Is Used
The report is provided to WorkSafeBC to assist with claim management and clinical decision-making. Your psychologist offers clinical opinions and recommendations; WorkSafeBC makes decisions regarding claim acceptance, benefits, and authorization of services.
The assessment is distinct from ongoing counselling or treatment, although its findings may help guide subsequent care and rehabilitation.
Arranging an Assessment
WorkSafeBC assessments are generally arranged through a referral from WorkSafeBC. If you are seeking an assessment in connection with your claim, contact your WorkSafeBC representative to discuss the referral process.
For questions about an assessment scheduled with AnchorPointe Counselling Group, please contact our office.
The description of assessment purposes and referrals is consistent with WorkSafeBC’s published guidance. WorkSafeBC