Taking the MMPI or another psychological test for an armed security position? Board-certified psychologist and former U.S. Navy psychologist Dr. Justin D’Arienzo explains what to expect, how to prepare, and common mistakes applicants should avoid.
Featured Speaking Engagement Dr. D’Arienzo, GSX Speaker at GSX 2026 Setting the Standard for Armed Guard Psychological Evaluations Press Release: Dr. D’Arienzo will be presenting at GSX 2026 about setting the standard for armed guard psychological evaluations. See him in Atlanta, Georgia at the conference in September 2026. He will be comparing the Peace Officer […]
Psychologists are scientist-practitioners relying on real evidence and science when treating and evaluating patients. Adding to this training model, I want to share something I’m genuinely excited about that is both a personal and professional milestone that reflects my commitment to the evolving profession of psychology and expands what I hope to one day be able to offer patients in Florida.
In May 2026, I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Postdoctoral Master’s Program in Clinical Psychopharmacology, an American Psychological Association’s (APA) designated program that prepares licensed psychologists for prescriptive authority in states where it is permitted. More recently (July 2026), I passed the Psychopharmacology Examination for Psychologists (PEP). The PEP is the national exam required for psychologists to pass who want to prescribe. It is an arduous test covering topics from clinical medicine, neuroscience, laboratory interpretation, general pharmacology to psychopharmacology. Passing it marks another real step forward in building advanced competency in this area. I worked my tail off to complete the program and pass the PEP while running our business, remaining active in the community and with my family, and seeing patients over the last two and a half years. My next step with psychopharmacology is to gain authority to prescribe in Louisiana and New Mexico. I will keep you updated.
In high-stakes industries, a “pass/fail” result isn’t enough—you need a defensible clinical record. Dr. D’Arienzo utilizes the PsychFit™ System, a trademarked evaluation process that combines rigorous normative data with a personal clinical interview. Unlike automated services, Dr. D’Arienzo (a former Navy Psychologist) personally validates every candidate’s profile to ensure they are psychologically fit for duty, reducing liability for the individual and the hiring organization.
Psychological evaluations often bottleneck armed security hiring. PsychFit™ Systems eliminates delays with 24-hour results and 100% virtual flexibility in 42 states, helping you scale your firm and reduce liability.
High-conflict divorce can feel like psychological warfare: false narratives, escalating accusations, court delays, and kids caught in the middle. Calm Under Fire is a 10-week peer-to-peer psychoeducational support program designed to help healthier parents regain stability, set boundaries, and protect their relationship with their children.
At the IASIR Conference, Dr. Justin D’Arienzo shared insights from over 5,000 armed security evaluations, calling for a unified national standard rooted in validity, accountability, and affordability. His dual-component model for assessing psychological stability and suitability offers a roadmap to strengthen safety, fairness, and professionalism across the private security industry.
Dr. Justin D’Arienzo reflects on presenting at the 2025 Florida Psychological Association Convention on PSYPACT, interstate psychology, clinical psychopharmacology and prescriptive authority, along with his continuing work in psychology leadership, advocacy and professional education.
D’Arienzo Psychology partners with Texas ISDs to enhance school safety by providing psychological evaluations and MMPI testing for their Guardian Programs. Our expert services ensure armed school staff are not only physically capable but also psychologically fit for their critical role. We offer a comprehensive and efficient process to help districts create a robust and secure environment for students and faculty.