Psychological Testing
Psychological testing helps us understand a person’s mental and emotional health, personality, and cognitive abilities. These tests use scientifically proven methods to give us valuable information about a person’s strengths, challenges, and mental health. This information can help doctors make better decisions, create treatment plans, and help people improve in their personal and professional lives. By identifying patterns in thinking and behavior, psychological tests provide a clearer picture of what’s going on in a person’s mind. This allows for better help and support tailored to their needs.
Assessments We Specialize In:
- Neuropsychological Assessments
Neuropsychological assessments help to understand how the brain functions in areas such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and emotional control. These assessments are crucial in diagnosing conditions like brain injuries, neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease), and cognitive decline. By evaluating how cognitive processes are impacted by illness or injury, we can understand the specific areas where a person may need support. Neuropsychological assessments may be used to evaluate Neurocognitive Disorders, including Delirium, Major Neurocognitive Disorder (previously known as dementia), and Mild Neurocognitive Disorder, which affect cognitive functioning and daily activities. - ADHD Assessments
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) assessments are used to diagnose this condition, which involves persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These traits can interfere with daily life and functioning at school, work, or in relationships. In the DSM-5, ADHD is categorized under Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, which includes symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that persist for at least six months and cause significant impairment in various settings, such as home or school. - Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Assessments
These assessments are used to determine if a person is on the autism spectrum, a condition that involves persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes sensory information. These assessments help identify the severity of the disorder and provide insights into how the person can be supported. - Personality Assessments
Personality assessments provide insights into an individual’s typical patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving. These tests help us understand personality traits that influence how a person interacts with the world and deals with stress. Personality assessments are often used to evaluate Personality Disorders, which involve enduring patterns of behavior that deviate markedly from the expectations of the individual’s culture. These can include disorders like Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and Antisocial Personality Disorder, among others. - Cognitive Assessments
Cognitive assessments focus on a person’s intellectual abilities, such as memory, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. These tests can help identify conditions that affect cognitive development or functioning, such as learning disabilities or intellectual disabilities. In the DSM-5, cognitive assessments are often used to diagnose Intellectual Disabilities, which involve limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., IQ below 70) and adaptive functioning, impacting everyday activities. - Mood and Anxiety Disorder Assessments
These assessments are used to evaluate mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders, which can greatly affect a person’s overall well-being. Symptoms like persistent sadness, irritability, excessive worry, or fear can interfere with daily life. In the DSM-5, mood and anxiety disorders are categorized into Mood Disorders, such as Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety Disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder, which are characterized by excessive worry, fear, or avoidance behaviors. - Developmental Assessments
Developmental assessments are used to track and evaluate the growth and progress of a person, especially in children. These tests focus on aspects like language development, social skills, and motor skills. In the DSM-5, developmental assessments are key in diagnosing Developmental Disorders, such as Developmental Coordination Disorder, Communication Disorders, or Intellectual Disabilities, which affect skills necessary for everyday functioning. - Trauma and PTSD Assessments
Trauma and PTSD assessments are used to evaluate if someone has experienced trauma or developed Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These assessments help identify symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of reminders, and hypervigilance, which are common in those who have experienced traumatic events. In the DSM-5, PTSD is categorized under Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders and involves symptoms that persist for more than a month after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. - Second Opinion Services
Second opinion services provide an opportunity for individuals to seek a fresh perspective on a previous diagnosis or treatment plan. This is helpful for ensuring that the diagnosis is accurate and that the best possible treatment plan is being followed. Second opinions can be useful for confirming or reassessing diagnoses across a wide range of disorders, including Mood Disorders, Neurodevelopmental Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders. - Executive Functioning Assessments
Executive functioning assessments evaluate a person’s ability to plan, organize, control impulses, and solve problems. These cognitive skills are essential for managing tasks and making decisions in everyday life. Issues with executive functioning are often seen in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Traumatic Brain Injury, or Mood Disorders, where a person might struggle with planning, focusing, and organizing activities. - Expedited Assessments
Expedited assessments are designed to provide fast results, often needed when there is a time-sensitive issue, such as applying for accommodations or making urgent treatment decisions. These assessments are streamlined to ensure a quick but thorough evaluation. Expedited assessments can be used for a range of conditions, including Mood Disorders, Cognitive Disorders, and Anxiety Disorders, to provide rapid insights into an individual’s mental health.
By offering these specialized assessments, we can provide a better understanding of the issues that may be affecting your mental and emotional well-being. The goal is to support you with personalized recommendations for treatment and personal growth, so you can live a healthier and more fulfilling life.