Services

Capacity Assessments under the Substitute Decisions Act

Only Designated Capacity Assessors can provide formal, legally recognized assessments to determine an individual’s capacity to make decisions about their property and personal care. These assessments are conducted in accordance with Ontario’s Substitute Decisions Act, ensuring compliance with provincial legislation and reporting protocols. Whether prompted by concerns from family members, health and social care providers, or legal professionals, our assessments are thorough, impartial, and mindful of the individual’s circumstances. We prioritize dignity, autonomy, and work from the presumption of capacity throughout the process.

Letters of Opinion of Capacity

In situations where a formal capacity assessment is not required, we offer professional opinions to help clarify an individual’s ability to make specific decisions. These opinions are grounded in our training as capacity assessors, our clinical expertise, legal literacy and are especially useful in challenging or evolving situations. Our evaluations assist lawyers, financial advisors, banks and families in determining the most appropriate course of action. These letters are often used to exercise the authority conferred by a power of attorney document, support estate management and planning, in dispute resolutions or for court proceedings. Each letter is tailored to the specific situation and written in clear, accessible language that reflects our commitment to transparency and professionalism.

Expert Testimony

As a Designated Capacity Assessor Dr. Webber is available to provide expert testimony in legal proceedings involving capacity-related matters. Her expertise is grounded in both academic and practitioner experience. Jodi holds a PhD in Aging & Health and has over 25 years of experience as a registered social worker. Her fluency in health literacy allows her to effectively interpret and make reasoned judgments based on available evidence. She offers legal professionals a credible, articulate, and evidence-based perspective on complex cases involving capacity, power of attorney disputes, family conflict and substitute decision-making.

Care Planning

We offer collaborative care planning services that help individuals and families navigate future care decisions with confidence. We start with the goals of care, adopting a person-centered approach to facilitate conversations about what matters most. Our intent is to develop sustainable care plans that reflect an individual’s values, preferences, and rights while recognizing trajectories of need. Whether planning for aging, cognitive decline, or transitions in care, we provide guidance and knowledge to balances autonomy with risk tolerance and support.

Speaking Engagements and Training

Dr. Webber enjoys giving workshops and talks, in person or virtually, that are tailored to organizations and professionals in health and social care, finance, and law; she is equally as excited to meet with community groups of all levels and sizes to answer questions and help navigate collective community challenges. Topics include capacity assessment, signs and symptoms of cognitive impairment, knowing when to consider long-term care, aging and decision-making, risk tolerance and older adults, and ethical practice. These talks are designed to educate, build awareness, advocate, enhance competency, and foster informed, compassionate approaches when working across populations and systems.

Fees

Please note that our services are privately billed, with fees discussed and agreed upon in advance. Some services may be covered by workplace employee benefits and if so, a receipt with a college registration number for submission can be provided. Capacity assessments required under Ontario’s Substitute Decisions Act may be eligible for a subsidy through the Capacity Assessment Office.