Psychiatric Service Dog Evaluation
in Colorado
Get a Colorado-licensed psychologist review for your Psychiatric Service Dog. Full ADA public access rights + FHA housing protections — all online, no office visit required.
PSD vs ESA — What's the Difference in Colorado?
Both provide mental health support, but Psychiatric Service Dogs have significantly broader legal protections.
Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)
Broader Rights- ADA public access rights (stores, restaurants, transit)
- FHA housing protections (no pet fees or deposits)
- Must perform a specific trained disability-related task
- No registration or vest required by law
- 2 ADA questions landlords/businesses may ask
Emotional Support Animal (ESA)
Housing Only- No ADA public access rights
- FHA housing protections (no pet fees or deposits)
- Does not need task training
- Any species can be an ESA
- Not allowed in no-pet businesses or transit
Qualifying Conditions for a PSD in Colorado
A PSD requires a diagnosable mental health condition that substantially limits a major life activity.
Not sure if you qualify? Take our free screening — no cost or commitment.
What Tasks Must a PSD Perform in Colorado?
The ADA requires a PSD to be individually trained to perform at least one task directly related to the handler's psychiatric disability.
Deep Pressure Therapy (DPT)
Providing physical pressure to calm anxiety or panic attacks
Interrupting Self-Harm
Nudging, pawing, or redirecting during dissociation or self-harm behaviors
Nightmare Interruption
Waking handler during PTSD nightmares or night terrors
Room Clearing / Perimeter Check
Checking spaces before entry to reduce hypervigilance anxiety
Medication Reminders
Alerting handler at scheduled medication times
Grounding During Dissociation
Tactile contact or licking to bring handler back to present
PSD Rights in Colorado
Housing (FHA)
Colorado landlords cannot charge pet fees, enforce breed restrictions, or deny housing for a certified PSD. The same FHA protections that apply to ESAs apply to PSDs.
Public Access (ADA)
PSDs may accompany handlers in all public places — including stores, restaurants, hotels, and transit systems. Businesses may only ask 2 questions: (1) Is this a service dog? (2) What task is it trained to perform?
No Registration Required
Colorado law and the ADA do NOT require PSDs to be registered, certified, or wear a vest. Your PSD evaluation letter is documentation of your disability-related need, not a 'certification' of your dog.
How to Get Your Colorado PSD Evaluation
Free Screening
2-minute eligibility check — no payment required.
Mental Health Assessment
Complete a thorough psychiatric questionnaire at your own pace.
Licensed Psychologist Review
A Colorado-licensed psychologist evaluates your case and task documentation.
Receive Your PSD Letter
Download your signed PSD evaluation letter — accepted Colorado-wide.
What Colorado PSD Clients Say
“The PSD evaluation was thorough and the letter was exactly what I needed. My PTSD has been much better managed since getting Ranger certified. The whole process took 2 days.”
Marcus T., Denver
“I was skeptical about an online PSD evaluation but the psychologist was incredibly professional. My apartment complex accepted the letter with no issues — no extra fees.”
Stephanie L., Boulder
“As a veteran with PTSD near Fort Carson, having my PSD recognized makes a huge difference. The evaluation covered everything the ADA requires. Highly recommend.”
James R., Colorado Springs
PSD Colorado — FAQ
What is the difference between a service dog and a PSD in Colorado?
All PSDs are service dogs under the ADA. The term 'Psychiatric Service Dog' specifically refers to a service dog trained to mitigate a psychiatric or mental health disability. They have the same full ADA public access rights as guide dogs or mobility assistance dogs.
Does my PSD need to be professionally trained in Colorado?
No — the ADA and Colorado law do not require professional training. You can owner-train your PSD as long as it is individually trained to perform a specific disability-related task and is under control in public.
Can my PSD evaluation be done online in Colorado?
Yes. Our Colorado-licensed psychologists conduct evaluations entirely online via HIPAA-compliant telehealth. You complete a psychiatric assessment, and the psychologist reviews and issues your signed PSD letter.
My Denver apartment says no dogs over 25 lbs. Does that affect my PSD?
No. Under the FHA and ADA, breed restrictions, weight limits, and no-pet policies cannot be applied to Psychiatric Service Dogs. Your landlord must provide reasonable accommodation regardless of breed or size.
Can a PSD fly in the cabin with me on Colorado flights?
As of 2021, most US airlines no longer allow PSDs in the cabin under DOT regulations — only guide dogs (seeing-eye dogs) retain guaranteed airline cabin access under federal rules. Check your specific airline's policy.
How much does a PSD evaluation cost in Colorado?
PSD evaluations at Colorado Service Animals are $199. This includes the full licensed psychologist review and the official signed PSD letter. Free screening — you only pay if you qualify.
Get Your Colorado PSD Evaluation Today
Colorado-licensed psychologist review. ADA + FHA compliant letter. Free screening — pay only if you qualify.