D'Arienzo Psychology Blog

MMPI Testing is Important for All Armed Security Officers

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

In today’s world, security guards play a vital role in safeguarding people, properties, and organizations. While many states have specific requirements for physical fitness and background checks, psychological fitness and suitability often get overlooked. A comprehensive psychological evaluation, including the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), is essential to ensure that security personnel are mentally and emotionally equipped to handle their duties. Even in states where psychological testing isn’t mandatory, these evaluations should still be conducted. Here’s why every security guard, regardless of legal requirements, should undergo MMPI testing and other psychological assessments. Dr. Justin D’Arienzo is a national leader in armed security MMPI Testing and Psychological Evaluations and welcomes the opportunity to work with your organization. Note that these evaluations should be a two pronged approach assessing for both psychological fitness and psychological suitability. Evaluations can be tailored to your company’s specific needs. 

Read More

Psychological Traits for Armed Guards and Law Enforcement Officers

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Key Psychological and Physical Traits Essential for Armed Guards and Law Enforcement Officers: For armed guards and law enforcement officers, certain psychological and physical traits are critical for ensuring effective performance and maintaining public safety. Proficiency in these traits is supported by recent studies in psychology and security, providing insights into the best practices for training and operation in these fields. Dr. D’Arienzo employs psychological testing such as the MMPI-3, California Psychological Inventory, and a Psychological Interview to assist agencies and companies in identifying psychologically fit and suitable armed and unarmed officers. Contact us today at 904-379-8094 or at [email protected]. Dr. D’Arienzo, a Navy Veteran, is licensed in Florida, New Mexico, and Texas has reciprocity in most states to provides these services. 

Read More

Accessing Mental Health Care with Non-Network Providers for Mayo Clinic Employees

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

For Mayo Clinic employees, prioritizing mental health is essential for maintaining overall well-being. While the Mayo Clinic’s health insurance offers comprehensive coverage for mental health services, there are instances where employees may choose or need to see a non-network provider. Whether it’s due to a specific therapeutic need, a preferred specialist, or geographic limitations, understanding how to navigate reimbursement for these services is crucial. This article provides a guide for Mayo Clinic employees seeking mental health services outside the insurance network.

D’Arienzo Psychology has served multiple Mayo employees over the last 20 years as non network psychologists, counselors, and therapists. We are accustomed to filling out the necessary forms to assist you in getting reimbursed. It has been our experience that a large portion of your bills are reimbursed by Mayo’s insurance plan. Don’t be anxious about the process. You deserve the best mental health services available, and we can help you get them with us. Contact us at 904-379-8094 or [email protected]   

Read More

Texas Level 4 PPO Executive Protection Officers MMPI Testing

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

Understanding Texas Level 4 PPO Executive Protection Officers & MMPI Testing. In the bustling state of Texas, the security and safety of individuals are paramount, especially for those requiring the highest level of personal protection. Texas Level 4 Personal Protection Officers (PPO) are at the forefront of offering such elite security services. These officers, often referred to as Executive Protection Officers, are not just any security personnel. They undergo rigorous training and screening, including psychological assessments like the MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory) Test, to ensure they’re well-equipped for their roles. This post delves into the importance of Texas Level 4 PPO Executive Protection Officers and the critical role of MMPI Testing in their selection process.

Read More

Texas Level 3 CSO MMPI Testing and Psychological Evaluations

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

In response to growing concerns about the mental fitness of security personnel, Texas has introduced a groundbreaking law mandating psychological testing for Level 3 Certified Security Officers (CSOs) as of January 1, 2024. This law was enacted by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. This innovative move aims to enhance public safety and ensure that those entrusted with guarding lives and property are psychologically equipped to handle the pressures and responsibilities of their roles. Dr. D’Arienzo, former Navy Operational Psychologist, provides both Level III CSO and Level IV PPO MMPI Testing. Learn more HERE.
The law, which takes effect immediately, requires all existing and prospective Level 3 CSOs in Texas to undergo comprehensive psychological evaluations. The objective is to identify any underlying mental health issues that could impair an officer’s judgment, decision-making, or ability to respond effectively in crisis situations. This measure not only prioritizes the well-being of the officers but also the safety of the communities they serve.

Read More

Where Can I Find Divorce Parenting Classes?

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

You Can Find Divorce Parenting Classes Right Here!!! If you are looking for a high conflict coparenting course or a parent education and family stabilization course that is online and taught by a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist who frequently provides court testimony for Family Law cases or works with parents and children experiencing a divorce, then you have landed on the right page. Our online divorce courses are accepted by family law courts and judges. If you don’t believe us, check with your attorney or Judge. Our Parent Education and Family Stabilization course is most often utilized by parents in Florida, Georgia, and Texas. If you need a certificate to list another state or provience, then let us know and we can make that happen for you. Our high conflict coparenting course can be used in all US states, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Read More

Trauma Informed Courts

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

On November 16, 2023, I (Dr. D’Arienzo) had the pleasure of presenting about Toxic Stress, Child Development, Trauma Informed Care, Trauma Responsive Courts, and Fostering Resilience in Children and Family Law Clients. I was fortunate to partner with the Honorable Judge Guy, and Attorneys Ms. Dyvonnda Thurston and Ms. Sarah Sullivan. Two of my associates, Ms. Cynthia Salameh, Attorney and Parent Coordinator, and Dr. Amy Hartley, Psychologist, came to support my presentations and this Florida Bar Family Law Section Office of the State Courts Administrator (OSCA) event. We enjoyed mingling and offering our expertise to the 50 attorneys and judges who participated. I would like to thank Judge Maureen Horkan for inviting me to present!

Read More

Charting Parenting Plans Post-Divorce: A New Roadmap

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

This article highlights the importance of crafting a well-structured parenting plan after divorce. It emphasizes the need for strategic planning, effective communication, and a focus on the child’s well-being. The article explains that a parenting plan is a written document that outlines various aspects of parenting, including living arrangements, visitation rights, and decision-making. Research suggests that the primary goal of a parenting plan is to reduce conflict, promote stability, and ensure the emotional well-being of the child. The article emphasizes the significance of maintaining a collaborative and child-centered approach during the planning process. It suggests incorporating the views of children, as studies show that their involvement leads to better adjustment to the changes brought about by divorce. Flexibility is also crucial, as the plan should adapt to the evolving needs of the child. The article highlights the usefulness of digital tools in managing parenting plans, offering examples of applications that facilitate communication and organization. Lastly, the article encourages seeking professional assistance from psychologists, divorce counselors, and mediators to ensure a mutually agreeable co-parenting plan. By prioritizing the child’s needs, promoting open communication, and utilizing available resources, divorced parents can develop a comprehensive parenting plan that serves the best interests of everyone involved.

Read More

Best Practices in Psychological Testing for Armed Security Personnel

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

On May 1, 2023, I had the pleasure of presenting about Best Pratices in Psychological Testing for Armed Security Personnel at Blue Cross/Blue Shield and GuideWell’s Corporate Security Leadership Conference along with several other esteemed professionals. I was fortunate to meet Rob O’Neill, the Navy SEAL who removed Osama Bin Laden. He gave a fantastic Keynote to boot. He was a tough act to follow!
I spent my time meeting corporate security officers from around the country and presented about the importance of using psychological testing and evaluations backed by scientific evidence to properly select security personnel and executive protection officers. I provided information regarding both testing-in and testing-out the right candidates for hire. I also shared my experiences conducting these evaluations with the Florida Highway Patrol, Florida Blue’s executive protection staff, Texas PPO’s, New Mexico’s Level III professionals, the Alaska State Capital, Federal and DOD armed contractors, VA Police Officers, and Florida G-License Temp holders. Additionally, I shared about my Navy Operational experiences as well conducting security clearance and psychological fitness and suitability evaluations regarding the protection of information, specialized jobs, and armed personnel.

Read More

How to Spot a Narcissist

Posted by: Dr. Justin D'Arienzo, Psy.D., ABPP

How to spot a narcissist? Dr. D’Arienzo, Clinical Psychologist here. I am going to share five signs that indicated you might be dealing with a narcissist. Receiving criticism: Their fragile self-esteem can’t even handle constructive criticism. Feedback seems like a direct attack. Losing Control: When they lose control of situations and people around them, they feel powerless because it contradicts their grandiose image of themselves. Not being admired: They thrive on admiration and attention and when they are ignored and don’t get what they think they deserve they pout, and get frustrated and angry. Being exposed: They create a false persona to maintain their inflated self-image but when someone exposes their true self, vulnerabilities or manipulations, they go on the attack. Losing a competition: They think they are superior to others and when someone beats them, they feel inferior, so they react with rage, make excuses, and “file away” a serious resentment. Losing is personal to a narcissist.  Obviously, we all have some of these traits, but if you’re narcissist, you would have most of these and to the extreme. If that’s you or your in a relationship with one, get professional help.

Read More