What is Psychological Testing?
Psychological tests are evidence-based instruments that are used for a variety of assessment purposes. Psychologists will choose a battery of tests for an evaluation based off of your needs and concerns. A psychological evaluation usually requires an initial intake interview and a few hours of testing. After testing, a psychologist writes a report that explains the findings. After the completion of the assessment, a psychologist will sit down with you and help you understand what the results mean for you. The entire process can sometimes take several weeks from start to finish.
Psychological evaluations are sometimes used when you are involved in the legal system, court or custody cases. In such circumstances, you may be required to complete an assessment to determine if your mental health concerns are related to the situation at hand. Sometimes individuals are required to obtain a psychological evaluation for employment, elective surgeries, or to rule-out psychological problems. Police officers and military personnel are sometimes required to complete a psychological assessment before active duty. At Center for Mental Health and Wellness assessment instruments are often used by psychologists for complex differential diagnosis. Your therapist or doctor may recommend a psychological assessment if you have complicated mental health needs. Psychologists also use cognitive and functional assessments to help determine intellectual capacity. These instruments often provide information related to overall intelligence and assessment of functional capability. Cognitive testing can help to assess memory, attention, executive functioning and reasoning skills. Psychologists frequently assess cognitive strengths and weaknesses during this type of testing to determine intervention and the need for further services. Sometimes individuals feel that they are struggling with a really specific issue such as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Psychologists use certain testing to determine if such issue functional impairs a particular individual. Sometimes medication prescribers require this type of assessment prior to treatment. Additionally, medication is typically not the only avenue for treating ADHD symptoms, therefore, other interventions tailored to each person are frequently offered after testing. Psychologists at Center for Mental Health and Wellness can assist you with your psychological testing needs. Use the contact form below to inquire about testing or to setup a testing appointment. |