SSD sent me to a shrink of some sort during their evaluation process. They also sent me to a rheumy and a GP.
The mental exam I was questioned by a nurse practitioner of some kind for 20-30 minutes. My main support person was allowed to participate in this. I believe we talked about
depression, and how it was aggravated by chronic illness - also talked about
some cognitive issues I was having from lupus. This person made notes, took them into the psychiatrist, then after a 10 minute wait I talked with him for 5-10 minutes, no more.
The rheumy & GP visits were similar, we talked about
my symptoms, what my drs had told me, what I agreed with & what I questioned, and they did really minor physical exams. (Fully clothed.)
Whether they helped or hindered? I have no idea. I never saw any results. I've actually never seen (or heard of) an "original SDD file" -- I think they may be referring to the initial questionnaire/forms you fill out when first applying for SSD. I never saw a ALJ exhibit list either -- don't know if there was one or not, but my attorney didn't mention anything.
In the hearing itself the only forms/reports that were specifically talked about
were my most recent dr reports, including a cognitive dysfunction exam that I had done at the request of my private long-term disability company.
Just tell the truth, that's all I did...my drs reports & the SSD attorney did the rest. Don't worry, they won't stick you with hot needles or anything!
Hang in there,