Frequently Asked
Questions
What is a Nexus Letter?
A Nexus Letter is a medically substantiated statement authored by a qualified clinician that establishes a connection between a Veteran’s current diagnosis and their military service. It incorporates clinical evidence, DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, and applicable VA regulations to support service connection.
What is the difference between a DBQ and a Nexus Letter?
A DBQ is a standardized VA form that documents symptoms and functional impairment. A Nexus Letter provides the medical rationale linking your condition to service. Both can strengthen your claim when used together.
Why is a Nexus Letter important for my VA claim?
To establish service connection, the VA requires a medical nexus between the Veteran’s condition and their military service. A well-supported Nexus Letter can be pivotal—particularly in cases where service records are incomplete or the condition emerged after discharge.
How are your Nexus Letters distinct from others?
My Nexus Letters are developed using forensic methodology, DSM-5 standards, and VA regulatory language. As both a veteran and former Behavioral Health Officer, I integrate clinical expertise with lived experience to produce evaluations that are both precise and empathetic.
Are you affiliated with the VA or a Veterans Service Organization (VSO)?
No. I operate as an independent clinician and am not affiliated with the VA, any VSO, or legal entity. This independence ensures impartiality, transparency, and adherence to strict ethical boundaries in all evaluations.
Can you guarantee service connection or a specific disability rating?
No. Outcome guarantees are not provided. My role is to deliver a medically sound, evidence-based opinion that may support your claim. Final determinations regarding service connection and disability ratings are made exclusively by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
What types of conditions do you evaluate?
I specialize in trauma-related psychiatric conditions recognized under 38 CFR § 4.130, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Insomnia Disorder, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), Moral Injury, Binge Eating Disorder, Alcohol Use Disorder, and other clinically relevant diagnoses.
Do you complete Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs)?
Yes. I complete mental health DBQs when clinically indicated and when they fall within the scope of my independent forensic evaluation. Each DBQ is prepared with attention to diagnostic accuracy and regulatory compliance.
How do I initiate the evaluation process?
To begin, you will complete a secure intake form, submit relevant documentation, and schedule an appointment. Following a comprehensive review, I prepare your Nexus Letter or DBQ based on clinical and regulatory standards.
What records should I provide?
Please submit service records, VA rating decisions, prior evaluations, treatment notes, and any documentation pertinent to your condition. A complete record enhances the depth and accuracy of the forensic analysis.
Are virtual evaluations available?
Yes. I offer secure, HIPAA-compliant virtual evaluations to veterans, ensuring accessibility while maintaining clinical integrity.
What is the typical timeline for completion?
The process generally takes 2–4 weeks from intake to final documentation, depending on case complexity and record availability. Expedited services may be available for time-sensitive claims.
Is my evaluation confidential?
Yes. All evaluations are conducted in strict accordance with HIPAA regulations and professional ethical standards. Your information is never disclosed without written consent.
Do you evaluate secondary conditions?
Yes. I assess both primary and secondary conditions, including those caused or aggravated by serviceconnected disabilities.
What is your role in the VA claims process?
I serve as an independent medical expert. I do not file claims, provide legal representation, or act as a VSO. My role is to deliver forensic clarity through objective medical documentation.
Do you collaborate with attorneys or accredited agents?
Yes. I work with attorneys and accredited agents upon request by the Veteran, while maintaining strict clinical independence and ethical boundaries.
Can your documentation be used for appeals or supplemental claims?
Yes. My Nexus Letters are frequently submitted in appeals, Higher-Level Reviews, and supplemental claims as new and material evidence.
What if the VA attributes my condition to willful misconduct?
I address such determinations directly. Behaviors such as substance use may be trauma-related and not indicative of willful misconduct.
Do you understand the veteran claims experience firsthand?
Yes. As a Veteran, I have personally navigated the claims process. That lived experience informs my evaluations with empathy, insight, and precision.
How can I contact you to begin?
You may reach me at +1 (202) 604 3401 or email Nexusbridgedbq@gmail.com I will guide you through the intake process and address any preliminary questions.
What if my trauma is not documented in service records?
Absence of documentation does not negate the validity of your experience. I specialize in evaluating undocumented trauma using clinical interviews, collateral evidence, and DSM-5 criteria to establish credibility and service connection.
Can you assist if I’ve already been denied by the VA?
Yes. Many denials result from insufficient medical rationale. I provide independent evaluations that address prior gaps, clarify diagnostic criteria, and offer new evidence to support appeals or supplemental claims.
Do you evaluate conditions such as moral injury or survivor’s guilt?
Yes. These are clinically significant yet frequently underrecognized conditions. Evaluations incorporate established moral injury frameworks and trauma-informed methodologies to ensure that such experiences are thoroughly understood and appropriately documented.
What if I am already service-connected but believe my condition is underrated?
We can assess for increased severity, functional limitations, and potential secondary conditions. When supported by evidence, a detailed DBQ or Nexus Letter may help substantiate a request for a higher disability rating or additional service-connected diagnoses.
Are you able to diagnose or provide treatment for my condition?
No. I do not diagnose or treat medical conditions. All Independent Medical Opinions are based solely on existing diagnoses and documented medical evidence contained within your personal health records.
Do you provide legal or medical advice?
No. I do not offer legal advice or representation. Veterans seeking legal guidance related to their medical claims are encouraged to consult with a qualified attorney or VA-accredited representative. For additional support, please visit the VA’s official resource for filing a claim.
Do all Veteran disability claims require Nexus Letters and DBQs?
No. Nexus letters and DBQs are never required but in some circumstances may strengthen a disability claim. If you are unsure whether a report would be helpful to your case, it is best to consult with an accredited legal professional.
May I submit multiple Nexus Letters or DBQs?
Yes. Veterans may submit multiple Nexus Letters or DBQs when addressing more than one medical condition or when additional supporting evidence is warranted. It is essential that each document presents accurate, relevant, and clinically sound information regarding the condition and its nexus to military service.
Do you offer financing or payment plans?
Yes. I am happy to work with you on a payment plan based on your specific needs; however, all fees must be paid before completing the final documents. Please contact me for more details.
Can you guarantee that my claim will be approved?
I provide clear, and transparent feedback. If, upon review, the evidence does not support clinically and ethically sound conclusions, I will not proceed with drafting a Nexus Letter.
Is support available for veterans pursuing DBQs or Nexus Letters?
Yes. Veterans may seek guidance from VA-accredited representatives, Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), or qualified legal professionals to determine whether a DBQ or Nexus Letter is appropriate for their specific case. These documents may be requested from various sources, including, but not limited to, your treating provider, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or independent expert services.