Episode 24 Summary – CFD Podcast: Guideline I

In this episode Tabetha Baume breaks down one of the most misunderstood areas of the clearance process – mental health under Guideline I. She emphasizes that seeking treatment, taking medication, or going to therapy does not disqualify someone from holding a clearance, and in most cases is viewed positively as responsible, proactive behavior.

Through real case examples, Tabetha explains how adjudicators distinguish between treated and unmanaged conditions, and how factors like counseling, medication compliance, hospitalization, or untreated symptoms are evaluated. She clarifies what applicants do and do not need to report on the SF-86 and dispels common myths that prevent cleared personnel from getting help. Her message is clear: mental health care supports clearance eligibility, while untreated conditions and dishonesty create risk.