FAQ

Assessment

What is Psychological Assessment?

Psychological Assessment typically requires information to be collected from a variety of sources. The process involves time spent face-to-face, including a clinical interview, psychological testing and the gathering of historical data. Data from psychological tests is analyzed within a context, integrating both current and historical information. The historical information typically includes information about development, medical background, education, family, substance abuse, personal interests and relationships. Psychological tests involved with a Psychological Assessment may include standardized tests, as well as self-report questionnaires. Once psychological tests have been administered, they are then scored and interpreted. These tasks require additional time above and beyond that which is spent in direct contact, and are necessary before any summary, letter, or report can be created. Psychological Testing and Psychological Assessment are specialties and may only be performed by individuals with the proper training and license, such as a Doctorate Degree in Psychology - Psy. D. or a Doctor of Philosophy - Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology.

Do I Need a Psychological Assessment?

You or your child may need a psychological assessment because you were referred by your pediatrician, physician, school, or other concerned professional. You may also receive a referral as a result of a court order or legal proceeding.

You may may also refer yourself or your child for psychological assessment. Personal referrals are usually generated when there is a noticeable change in daily functioning and may be related to behavior or personality, difficulties or strengths in academics, social/relational problems, or career concerns. Please contact us directly to discuss any assessment concerns or questions you may have.

What does the evaluation process look like?

We will work with you and the referral source to determine the specific referral question or presenting problem. An intake interview with you will be completed and appropriate tests will be selected. Tests can include intelligence, achievement, cognitive functioning, memory, and motor functioning measures.  The choice of tests used depends upon the question to be answered. ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, as well as Learning Disability evaluations typically require collateral contacts, educational, and/or medical records. Tests are administered, interpreted, and integrated with your intake and collateral information in a written report with diagnostic impressions and recommendations for treatment. During the final step in the process, you will again meet with your clinician so that they provide feedback and give you with a copy of your written report.  

How long does it take?

The length of the evaluation depends on the type of evaluation and the referral question. Assessment can range from one to several hours. Most test sessions begin in the morning starting with an interview. Whenever possible, testing will be completed in one day, but in some circumstances testing is best completed over two days to assure your or your child's optimal functioning and performance. Breaks are taken as needed. When making the appointment, we will give an estimated time for the day of testing. If all testing is not completed in one day, a second day of testing may be required.

Therapy

Do I need therapy?

If you have been struggling with the same feelings and reactions for years or if you are currently experiencing a difficult time, therapy can help. Therapy addresses emotional pain, loss, grief, trauma, relational difficulties and many other concerns. 

If my spouse and I are having difficulties, do we both need to come to therapy?

Yes. It would be optimal for both you and your spouse to attend therapy. Marital difficulties are best addressed as a couple. However, if your spouse is unwilling to come to therapy, you can come individually to help you cope and process your side of the relational dynamic.

Will therapy be helpful?

Therapy is most effective and helpful if you are committed to therapy. While your therapist will provide insight into your feelings and behaviors, and guide you toward practical change, change depends on your willingness to be present, open, and willing to take the sometimes uncomfortable steps toward personal growth.

How long do I have to go?

The length of therapy depends on the issue you are dealing with and on your willingness to make necessary changes. We see clients that come for short term work which usually takes about 6-8 sessions, and we see clients who benefit from longer work ranging from 6 months to a year.

Can I be friends with my therapist?

The therapeutic relationship is unique in that it is highly personal yet at the same time a contractual agreement. The therapeutic relationship is set within professional and ethical boundaries which provide safety to you as the client and to your therapist as the professional. The intent of such boundaries is to ensure that everything that happens in therapy is for your benefit, as the client, and not for the benefit of your therapist. Each topic of conversation and each interaction is as deliberate as possible and intended to move you toward your therapeutic goals.

What's the difference between talking to a therapist and talking to my friend about my problems?

While your friendships are mutually beneficial, the therapeutic relationship is designed to benefit you as the client and exists solely to perpetuate your growth. Your therapist is a trained and licensed mental health professional who is equipped to help you make meaning out of your past, present feelings, and experiences, and provide you with tools to make key changes in your life. Your therapist is not only professionally trained and knowledgeable, but also unbiased, nonjudgmental, and focused on your emotional world and will provide you with valuable insight. Every session is completely confidential, therefore you won't have to worry about the information you share becoming public knowledge. 

What exactly goes on during a therapy session?

Each therapy session is focused on you and geared toward achieving your therapeutic goals. At the onset of your therapeutic relationship, you and your therapist will establish specific and measurable goals and design a treatment plan to help you achieve those goals. However, during each session you may also bring up anything you would like or anything you have been struggling with during the course of the week. Your therapist will help you process and address your concerns while keeping your long term goals in mind and helping you see the connections between your everyday struggles and your long term goals.