NC Disability Determination Services (DDS) Examinations | What to Expect

If NC Disability Determination Services (DDS) scheduled you for an examination with Dr. Ellison, this page explains what to expect. These appointments are part of the disability claim process: when Disability Determination Services needs current information to make a decision on a claim, they arrange an independent examination with a licensed psychologist.

The Most Important Things to Know

There is no cost to you. Disability Determination Services arranges and pays for the examination.
This is an evaluation, not treatment. It's a one-time appointment — no treatment or therapy will be started.
We do not decide your claim. Dr. Ellison sends a report directly to Disability Determination Services, and they make all decisions about your case. Questions about your claim should go to the examiner listed in your appointment letter.
Attending matters. If you need to cancel or reschedule, call Disability Determination Services at the number in your appointment letter as soon as possible — a missed exam can delay your claim.

What Happens at the Appointment

Most examinations are an interview — Dr. Ellison will ask about your history, your day-to-day activities, and how your symptoms affect you. This typically takes about an hour.

Some appointments also include testing — tasks involving memory, attention, or problem-solving. If testing is part of your exam, your appointment will take longer. Your scheduling letter indicates which type of examination you have.

There's nothing to study or prepare — just answer honestly and do your best on any tasks. For children and teens, a parent or guardian should attend.

What to Bring

Photo ID
Your appointment letter
A list of your current medications
Glasses or hearing aids, if you use them

Where We Are & What to Expect on Arrival

Our office is at 34 Myrtle Street, Belmont, NC 28012 — open in Google Maps. Street parking is available.

Two-story brick house at 34 Myrtle Street in Belmont; Ellison Psychological Services is on the upper floor — Look for the two-story brick house with the “Creative Travel” sign — our office is on the upper floor.

The office is on the upper floor of a converted house, and you will need to climb a flight of stairs to reach it. If stairs are difficult for you, please call our office at (803) 620-4411 before your appointment.
Please plan to arrive about 10–15 minutes early. If you arrive before your appointment time, have a seat in the chairs at the top of the stairs — Dr. Ellison will call you in at your appointment time.
If you have trouble finding us on the day of your appointment, call (803) 620-4411.

For Disability Determination Services and providers: records may be faxed to (828) 620-4411.