The last bit is the telehealth assessment; it's informal.
I will contact you within days of receiving the information, and will book the appointment usually within 2-4 weeks.
You'll need a GP referral prior to the assessment.
Ideally, the referral needs to state:
Dr Al Griskaitis - Psychiatrist assessment, treatment recommendations and report.
We'll look at big picture stuff and treatments that might help.
I usually have both the
DVA report and
Detailed treatment plan for your GP
ready the next day.
Preparing Your DVA Report
A step by step process to preparing your Psychiatric DVA Report
Watch the Video explainer above
Personalised, Independent Support for Your DVA Claim
When you work with me, you’re not dealing with a shonky third-party provider nor someone affiliated with DVA. You’re dealing directly with an experienced psychiatrist who focuses on PTSD and understands the challenges you’ve faced in service and the consequences of those challenges.
My goal is simple: to ensure your sacrifices are appropriately recognised and that you receive the entitlements you deserve. I bring my expertise and a deep understanding of veteran mental health, crafting detailed, evidence-based reports tailored to meet DVA requirements to support your claim.
You’ve given your best in service. Now it’s time to make sure you’re supported in return.
Best wishes,
- Dr Al Griskaits
If someone else is doing the report for you, check out this blog about getting your conditions related to service. It explains what needs to be included for a solid DVA mental health report.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does this cost?
DVA Health Cards (Gold and White) are accepted as payment upon GP referral.
Do you take a cut of my payout?
No. DVA reimburses me directly for the report and I do not take any cut of your entitlements or payout.Â
How long will this take?
That's largely up to you. Once you have done the online forms and provided the documentation on your stressors, I can usually book your telehealth appointment within 2-4 weeks and have the report ready within days after our appointment.
The rest is up to DVA.
What if I don't have a report request?
During our telehealth assessment, I will prepare a D2049 form for you (or your advocate) Â to lodge with DVA as part of your claim. DVA will request a report from me usually within 2-6 months. I cannot lodge a report until DVA request it.
Do I need a GP referral to see you?
Yes, you will need a GP referral to do the telehealth assessment with me. While you wait for a GP appointment, you can get started on the forms.
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Where are you located?
I am in Sydney, but all appointments are offered via telehealth. Please let me know if you are in another time zone.
Do I have to do the online forms and stressor document?
Yes. My process relies on having this information upfront. This allows me to get your report done quickly. This process is not for everyone. If you are uncomfortable with this process, I am happy to suggest other report providers.
What is the difference between initial liability and permanent impairment?
Initial Liability (IL) is when DVA accepts that service has caused a particular condition, thereby DVA accept liability.
Permanent Impairment (PI) often happens at a later time, when DVA accept that the condition is unlikely to improve.
Both IL and PI can be reported at the same time if things are deemed stable.
What conditions can a DVA psychiatric report cover?
Common primary mental health conditions include:
PTSD Major Depression Generalised Anxiety Adjustment disorder Substance use disorder Chronic insomnia disorder
Secondary conditions may include: Bruxism Female Sexual Dysfunction Erectile Dysfunction
What's needed for a successful claim?
To be successful and claimed conditions need to be linked to service. DVA will not accept liabbility for something like depression if it is not linked to something that happended in service.
Common causes are Pain > 6 months, bullying/harrassment, threats to your life or witnessing threats to the lives of others. More here.
Will I get a copy of the report?
Generally Yes.
The final report is sent directly to DVA.
Once you receive your "letter of determination" from DVA then reach out to me, and I can send you a copy.
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At The Psych Collective, we're passionate about empowering individuals to improve mental health and supporting clinicians to deliver effective, evidence-based care. We offer therapy, professional training, and high-quality mental health resources.