Psychological Testing
What is Psychological Testing?
Psychological testing is a process by which psychologists use assessment measures to help determine a diagnosis and guide treatment.
This evaluation can be useful for clients having a difficult time narrowing down a cause to specific issues such as attention problems, emotional dysregulation, and more. For instance, difficulties concentrating, fidgeting, memory, trouble with time management or organization, and feelings of restlessness could all be symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, it could also be a result of executive functioning difficulties from a mood disorder such as anxiety or depression.
Additionally, the evaluation process considers that behavioral outbursts and other symptoms can mean different things for individuals in different age groups.
Testing can help to determine if a client’s specific symptoms are the result of a developmental disorder (ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, a learning disorder, etc.), a mood disorder (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, etc.), or something else!
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Who Should get Tested?
If a person is having problems at school, work, or in relationships, psychological testing can help determine why. If you feel unclear of the underlying cause behind your difficulties, you may be a good candidate for testing!
How Does it Work?
Testing is a three part process, consisting of:
1) an initial intake
2) psycho-diagnostic testing
3) a feedback session.
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During the intake, a client will meet with a psychologist for 60 minutes who will gather essential background information in order to inform their choices on which tests may be appropriate. They may be asked to provide more information on the presenting problem, family history, psychiatric history, or medical history. They will then book a testing appointment.
Testing usually takes approximately 4 hours, give or take, during which numerous measures are given in order to help the psychologist determine a diagnosis and recommendations. Approximately 4-6 weeks later, the psychologist will have a written report prepared for feedback.
During the feedback session, which can take 30-60 minutes, the psychologist provides and explains the data gathered within the written report. A diagnosis is given, if necessary, and a comprehensive list of recommendations is provided to help guide treatment of presenting problems.