Psychiatric Assessments
Psychiatric Assessments
There are moments in life when important legal, medical, or financial decisions must be made, decisions that require not only intent but mental capacity.
At Serenity, our psychiatrists provide formal psychiatric assessments to determine an individual’s ability to make informed decisions, ensuring each evaluation is conducted professionally, confidentially, and with respect for autonomy and dignity.
Overview on Psychiatric Capacity Assessments
Psychiatric capacity assessments help determine whether a person understands, retains, and can use information to make decisions about their health, finances, property, or other matters. Such assessments are often requested by:
- Lawyers handling wills, LPAs, or disputes
- Families concerned about cognitive decline or dementia
- Healthcare professionals seeking clarity in complex care decisions
- Individuals wishing to formalise their wishes legally or medically
These evaluations are objective, evidence-based, and aligned with Singapore’s Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines.
Types of Psychiatric Assessments at Serenity
A Mental Capacity Assessment evaluates whether an individual can understand and make specific decisions at a given point in time, for example, consenting to treatment, selling property, or managing finances.
The psychiatrist determines whether the person can:
- Understand relevant information about the decision
- Retain that information long enough to make a choice
- Weigh the pros and cons rationally
- Communicate the decision clearly
This assessment is often required for court proceedings, care planning, or when a person’s cognitive abilities are in question.
A Testamentary Capacity Evaluation determines if a person has the mental capacity to make or change a will.
In Singapore, this is guided by the Banks v Goodfellow legal standard, which requires that the person:
- Understands the nature and effect of making a will
- Knows the extent of their property or estate
- Recognises potential beneficiaries and relationships involved
- Can make decisions free from undue influence
At Serenity, psychiatrists conduct this evaluation with sensitivity and impartiality, providing a detailed report suitable for legal use if required.
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) allows an individual (the donor) to appoint one or more persons (donees) to make decisions on their behalf should they lose mental capacity in the future.
Before the LPA can be registered with Singapore’s Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), a psychiatrist or medical practitioner must certify that:
- The donor understands the LPA and its implications
- The decision to create it is voluntary
- The donor has the capacity to make this legal appointment
Our psychiatrists provide LPA certifications in accordance with OPG guidelines, ensuring the process is clear, confidential, and compliant.
How Psychiatric Capacity Assessments Work
At Serenity, each assessment follows a structured, fair, and transparent process:
- Initial Discussion – Clarifying the purpose of the assessment and obtaining consent.
- Clinical Interview – Evaluating mental state, understanding, reasoning, and judgment.
- Cognitive Testing (if required) – Assessing memory, comprehension, and attention.
- Collateral Information – Reviewing medical or legal documentation where relevant.
- Formal Report – Providing an objective, written opinion based on evidence and clinical standards.
All assessments are conducted in confidence and handled with discretion and respect.
When to Consider a Psychiatric Assessment
You may wish to arrange one if:
- There are concerns about dementia or cognitive decline.
- A loved one is making important legal or financial decisions.
- A lawyer, court, or agency requests a psychiatric evaluation.
- You wish to formalise your own legal or healthcare decisions.
Care That Balances Clinical Insight and Human Dignity
At Serenity, we approach every assessment with empathy, neutrality, and professionalism.
Our role is not to make decisions for individuals, but to ensure that their decisions are made with understanding, intent, and respect for their rights.
What to Expect When You Reach Out
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First Visit
Discussion of assessment purpose, consent, and background details. -
Assessment
Structured clinical interview and cognitive testing (if indicated). -
Treatment Plan
Formal report provided to the referring party or individual, with consent. -
Ongoing Care
Clarification, review, or repeat assessment based on case requirements.
If You Need an Independent, Confidential Capacity Assessment
Whether you are a lawyer, family member, or individual seeking clarity, Serenity provides professional psychiatric assessments grounded in ethics, objectivity, and compassion.
Reach out to schedule a confidential consultation or learn more about the process.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
