Understanding Capacity Assessments
Evaluating decision-making abilities in adults.
Capacity assessments help determine whether an individual can make informed decisions about personal, financial, medical, and other important matters. These evaluations clarify whether a young adult can understand information relevant to a decision, appreciate the consequences of choices, and communicate a clear and consistent preference. At Constellation Psychology, we provide capacity assessments exclusively for young adults, taking a respectful, individualized approach that supports autonomy, well‑being, and clarity for families navigating this process.
Criteria for Capacity Assessments
Capacity assessments are available online for youth as young as 17.5 years old who are transitioning into adulthood. We currently do not offer this service for older adults or seniors. These evaluations help determine whether a young person can independently make decisions in areas such as medical care, education, employment, legal matters, and financial management.
When independent decision‑making is not possible, the capacity assessment provides the documentation required to pursue sole or shared guardianship or trusteeship under Alberta’s Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act.
A pre‑assessment consultation is required with the youth/adult and caregiver to review consent, determine whether a capacity assessment is appropriate, gather developmental history, and discuss next steps. Relevant documentation—such as previous psychological or medical reports, school records, and the individual’s medical file—will also be requested for review as part of this process. This consultation includes confirming the need for a doctor’s letter (valid for three months) stating that the individual is not experiencing a temporary or reversible medical condition that could affect decision‑making capacity.
Once all documentation is received, the capacity assessment is booked for a one‑hour virtual appointment. Typically, the youth/adult attends with the caregiver who will be pursuing guardianship or trusteeship. Following the appointment, two copies of the capacity assessment form are completed and mailed to the applicant. Completed capacity assessments are valid for six months.
Resources and Support Programs Available
Capacity Assessment
The cost for a capacity assessment for either guardianship or trusteeship is $500.00 (flat fee). For assessments covering both guardianship and trusteeship, the cost is $700.00 (flat fee). The process includes an online pre‑assessment consultation, a follow‑up online capacity assessment interview, and the completion of required forms.
