Mental fitness is a critical component of aviation safety. Professionals in aviation operate in high-stakes environments where cognitive clarity, emotional stability, and behavioral reliability are essential.
Dr. Savana Howe provides comprehensive psychological evaluations tailored to the unique demands of the aviation industry. With a background in high-responsibility psychological assessment, she brings both clinical precision and a deep understanding of regulatory standards to every evaluation. Her work supports pilots, air traffic controllers, flight crews, and aviation personnel facing certification, return-to-duty, or fitness-for-duty requirements.
Each evaluation is approached with objectivity, care, and confidentiality, ensuring that individuals are assessed fairly and thoroughly. Dr. Howe uses evidence-based tools to help professionals and aviation students gain clarity about their mental health and receive the documentation and support they need to maintain flight readiness.
An aviation psychological evaluation is a structured mental health assessment designed to determine whether an individual is psychologically fit to safely perform duties in aviation-related roles. These evaluations assess key areas such as emotional stability, cognitive functioning, personality traits, and behavioral patterns—factors that directly impact decision-making, stress management, and overall performance in high-pressure environments. Unlike general psychological testing, these evaluations are specifically tailored to meet the unique demands and safety standards of the aviation industry. These assessments are often requested by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), employers, aviation school or Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) to support decisions related to pilot licensing, medical certification, return-to-duty clearance, or post-incident review. They are also used in cases involving mental health concerns, substance use history, or performance-related issues. Dr. Howe conducts these evaluations using evidence-based tools, ensuring each assessment is both clinically sound and regulatorily compliant.
An evaluation may be required in situations where mental health or behavioral history could impact flight safety. These evaluations are commonly requested during the medical certification or recertification process. Some of the most common reasons include:
Dr. Howe provides structured, evidence-based evaluations to support documentation for aviation authorities or employers—always conducted with professionalism, discretion, and a clear understanding of the aviation environment.
You’ll begin by submitting any relevant documentation, including medical or psychological records, legal history (if applicable), and personal background information. This helps Dr. Howe understand your case
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You’ll meet with Dr. Howe for a structured interview, typically lasting 60 to 90 minutes. During this conversation, she will explore your mental health history, current functioning, and any past experiences that may be relevant to your fitness for flight duties.
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Standardized psychological tests will be administered to assess emotional, cognitive, and behavioral functioning. These tools help identify any concerns that may impact flight readiness and provide data to support the final evaluation.
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Dr. Howe prepares a clear, well-organized report based on the interview, testing results, and submitted records. This report is suitable for submission to aviation authorities, employers, or legal representatives. A follow-up session may be offered to review the results and answer any questions.
Dr. Savana Howe is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychological testing and evaluation. She offers in-depth assessments for a wide range of needs, including ADHD, Autism, learning challenges, giftedness, cognitive functioning, court-ordered evaluations, and fitness-for-duty exams.
Her reports are known for being clear, thorough, and practical—helping clients, families, and professionals better understand their situation. Whether it’s for diagnosis, school or job accommodations, or legal questions, Dr. Howe tailors every evaluation to the person and situation. She has experience working in courts, aviation, healthcare settings, and schools, and always brings cultural awareness and clinical care to the process.
Alongside testing, Dr. Howe also provides therapy for people dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or life changes. Her approach is warm and collaborative, focused on helping people feel heard, understood, and supported.
The length of your evaluation depends on the reason for the referral and the depth of testing required. In most cases, the process is completed over one to two in-person sessions, with each session lasting 1.5 to 3 hours.
Dr. Howe will begin with a thorough clinical interview, followed by standardized psychological testing and a review of relevant records. After the evaluation, the written report is typically completed and delivered within 2 weeks. Expedited reports may be available upon request, depending on the case.
Contact Dr. Howe today to schedule your free 15-minute consultation and begin your journey toward better mental health.
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