Originally published September 2025. Last updated September 2026.
Public-safety psychological testing should be valid, effective, accountable, and connected to the actual demands of the job. That is the standard I continue to advocate for in the security industry.
In September 2025, I attended the annual convention of the Associated Security Services and Investigators of the State of Texas (ASSIST) in San Antonio and presented on psychological testing and evaluation of armed and unarmed security officers. My presentation focused on using objective psychological testing, including the MMPI, together with professional interviews and job-relevant information rather than treating testing as simply a box to check.
From the Conference Room to the Field
While in San Antonio, I also visited the corporate headquarters of one of our clients, HEB, where I evaluated several security officers. Psychological interviews can be conducted virtually or in person depending on the company’s needs.
After completing the evaluations, I visited armed officers working in the field at an HEB grocery store and visitor center. I believe seeing the actual work environment matters. These positions require judgment, emotional control, reliability, conflict management, and the ability to make appropriate decisions while carrying a firearm.
Experience in Public-Safety Psychology
I am a board-certified clinical and forensic psychologist and former U.S. Navy clinical and operational psychologist. My work includes thousands of psychological evaluations involving armed security, law enforcement, and other safety-sensitive positions. I also have advanced postdoctoral training in clinical psychopharmacology and medical psychology, which adds a broader understanding of medication effects, medical conditions, sleep, substance use, and other biological factors that may affect psychological functioning and job performance.
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For company or individual testing needs, contact D’Arienzo Psychology/PsychFit Systems at 904-379-8094 or security@drdarienzo.com.
