Psychological Evaluation

Psychological tests measure the nature and extent of problems a person expereinces. Psychological tests measure strengths and weaknesses, personality characteristics, and cognitive styles (such as attention and memory). Assessments can identify what is causing a person to have difficulties, and suggest treatment or skillbuilding to improve functioning.

Common referral questions that can be answered by psychological testing are:

* Determination of the probability of success in further academic pursuits.

* Academic difficulties during high school or college.

* Ineffective or counterproductive coping methods, such as alcohol or drug abuse, depression, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed.

* Assessment to determine the extent or nature of an individual’s psychological disability.

Intellectual assessment identifies areas of cognitive strength and weaknesses. These areas may include verbal and language functioning, visual-spatial functioning, numerical reasoning, attention, concentration, and memory functioning. Depending on the referral question, assessment may include other measures to identify learning disability or mood or anxiety issues that may impact intellectual ability.

Personality evaluation can help a person understand why they are having difficuty in the tasks of life. There are many excellent tests that can reveal personality style, including the Rorschach Inkblot Test, Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory - 2, Personality Assessment Inventory, and Adlerian LIfe Style Inventory.

A comprehensive assessment will identify and report how a person's intellectual abilities, personality style, and current life situation contribute to their experiences. Reports contain recommendations to help clients solve problems and lead more satisfying lives.