Psychological Assessment
Psychological evaluations are performed when a social, emotional, learning, or behavioral concern is noticed and a cause, impact and/or recommendation is needed. The problem(s) can appear in many realms including inappropriate behavior, mood states that are interfering with functioning, a change from previous functioning, and/or an inability to perform up to expected standards.
What to Expect in An Assessment
The assessment process involves the patient or the patient and their caregiver. The patient will spend much of the time with the psychologist completing a variety of assessment activities, such as building with blocks, looking at pictures, solving puzzles and recalling information. Caregivers are viewed as vital components of the assessment team, and will be requested to provide background information and an overview of current concerns in an interview without the child present.
Some of this background information can include: previous evaluations, medical reports, academic grades, and Individualized Education Program (IEPs). Please make sure to bring this information to the session or provide it via our secure Electronic Health Record system. This information will be used in conjunction with the clinical interview to determine the assessment battery that best meets the individual’s unique need.
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At the conclusion of the assessment process, feedback regarding testing results, diagnostic impressions, and treatment recommendations will be provided in person.
Difference Between Tests and Assessments
Testing involves the use of formal tests such as questionnaires or checklists. These are often described as “norm-referenced” tests. That simply means the tests have been standardized so that test-takers are evaluated in a similar way, no matter where they live or who administers the test. Norm-referenced tests have been developed and evaluated by researchers and have proven to be effective for measuring a particular trait or disorder.
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A psychological assessment can include numerous components such as norm-referenced psychological tests, informal tests and surveys, interview information, school or medical records, medical psychological evaluation and observational data. Dr. Silverman will determine what information is to be used based on the specific questions being asked. For example, psychological assessments can be used to determine if a person has a learning disorder, is competent to stand trial, or has a traumatic brain injury. They can also be used to determine if a person would be a good manager or how well they may work with a team.
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A clinical interview is when Dr. Silverman speaks to a patient about his or her concerns and history, and observes how the patient thinks, reasons, and interacts with others. Psychological assessments may also include interviewing other people who are close to the patient, such as teachers, co-workers, or family members. (Such interviews, however, would only be performed with written consent from the patient, unless the psychological evaluation is court-ordered.)
What Does A Comprehensive Psychological Assessment Include?
A comprehensive psychological evaluation takes into consideration multiple factors that might be contributing to an individual’s overall pattern of strengths and weaknesses.
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Some of the assessment domains include:
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Cognitive abilities
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Adaptive living skills
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Academic achievement
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Personality
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Emotional functioning
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Language Skills
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Visual perception/Visual spatial skills
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Attention / Concentration
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Executive functioning
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Memory
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Learning
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Sensory and motor functioning
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Social functioning
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Substance use/abuse
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Dr. Silverman will choose a specific set of tests for each patient depending on the questions that the referring party wants answered. The referring party may be the patient, a parent, a treating physician, therapist, attorney, or the court system.
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Psychological testing is not a pass / fail system. Rather, it is putting together the pieces of a puzzle that make up the unique qualities of the patient, and creates the best path towards treatment. Please remember that psychological testing isn’t something that you can study for nor is it anything to fear. Rather, it is an opportunity for psychologists and other treating physicians to determine the best way to help you.