Psychological Evaluations Occur Often During Security Clearance Investigations: Here Are the Three Most Common Reasons
The security clearance approval process is long, even under the best circumstances. Though the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) has made significant strides in reducing delays—bringing Top Secret processing times down from an average of over 500 days in 2018 to around 249 days in 2024—some cases take longer. Why? Because when doubts arise about an applicant’s reliability, trustworthiness, or judgment (the holy trinity of good character in the clearance world), adjudicators may request additional investigation—including a psychological evaluation.
If you’ve been referred for a psychological evaluation, don’t panic. Most individuals who complete a clearance-related psychological assessment are ultimately cleared. But it’s helpful to understand what tends to trigger such referrals. Based on years of evaluation experience, here are the three most common reasons someone is sent for a psychological evaluation during the clearance process:
#1 Reason for a Psychological Evaluation: Substance Use and Abuse
Substance-related concerns are the number one reason applicants are referred for psychological evaluation. Alcohol is the most common culprit, with marijuana running a close second. Even as public attitudes toward marijuana shift, it remains a red flag in the federal clearance world, mainly if use occurred after being hired into a cleared position or if the applicant was dishonest about it.
This concern also overlaps with criminal conduct. DUIs, drug arrests, or even informal reports of substance misuse often lead to questions about a person’s judgment. But worse than the behavior itself is lying about it. Suppose investigators uncover substance use that you denied. In that case, it raises suspicion that your behavior may be worse than it actually was—and that you can’t be trusted to tell the truth. In the security clearance decision-making process, candor matters as much as conduct.
#2 Reason for a Psychological Evaluation: Behavioral Issues
This is the “problems with people” category—conflicts at work, relationship breakdowns, arrests, personality concerns, and behavior that deviates from expected norms. If there is a pattern of interpersonal dysfunction or impulse control problems, you’re likely to raise flags.
Examples include erratic or confrontational behavior, inflexible attitudes, or misconduct involving violence, sex, or dishonesty. Even if you’ve never been diagnosed with a psychological disorder, a consistent pattern of disruptive or inappropriate behavior can lead adjudicators to ask, “What’s going on here?” A psychological evaluation helps clarify that picture.
#3 Reason for a Psychological Evaluation: Psychological Conditions
A formal mental health diagnosis doesn’t automatically disqualify you from obtaining a clearance. In fact, many people with managed conditions like depression or anxiety work successfully in cleared positions. However, adjudicators become concerned when symptoms are untreated, poorly controlled, or when an applicant is noncompliant with treatment recommendations.
Conditions like bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders tend to raise more scrutiny—especially if there is evidence of impaired judgment, delusions, or erratic behavior. But even relatively mild conditions can warrant evaluation if they interfere with your reliability. If you’ve been diagnosed, it’s helpful to have your provider document your treatment history, compliance, and stability over time. This kind of supporting documentation can go a long way toward mitigating adjudicative concerns.
Final Thoughts: Psychological Evaluation ≠ Disqualification for a Security Clearance
Being asked to undergo a psychological evaluation is not the same as being denied a clearance. Most people who go through the process and are forthcoming, stable, and well-managed are ultimately cleared. The key is to show that any past issues are understood, treated, and no longer impair your ability to safeguard national security information.
Here are some of the most effective mitigating factors used in clearance adjudication:
- Time: Distance from the concerning behavior is one of the strongest mitigators. If the issue occurred years ago and there is no pattern of recurrence, that can weigh heavily in your favor.
- Treatment: Evidence of responsible treatment—whether for substance use or a mental health condition—shows maturity, accountability, and an effort to improve.
- Compliance: Following treatment recommendations, staying sober, and demonstrating stability over time helps establish reliability.
- Candor: Telling the truth from the start is essential. A minor issue that’s disclosed honestly is far less damaging than a more serious issue that’s hidden or denied.
- Positive change: Letters of recommendation, proof of work performance, and a track record of improved behavior can all help demonstrate growth.
At ClearancePsych, we support applicants and cleared professionals in navigating these challenges through tailored coaching and treatment programs. Our services are designed specifically to mitigate adjudicative concerns and bolster your chances of successful clearance.
Even if you receive an unfavorable outcome from a psychological evaluation, all is not lost. The evaluations we provide typically include specific, actionable recommendations aimed at mitigating the concerns identified. If you follow those recommendations—such as completing treatment, obtaining documentation of stability, or participating in coaching—you can significantly improve your chances of gaining or regaining your clearance at a future date.
Dr. Scott Edwards is President and Chief Psychologist at ClearancePsych. He is a licensed, board-certified psychologist with more than 30 years of experience. ClearancePsych connects security clearance professionals, attorneys, and applicants with psychologists who understand the clearance process. We provide psychological evaluations, coaching, and targeted treatment designed to help mitigate adjudicative concerns and support clearance eligibility. Find us online at https://clearancepsych.com.