THIR PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES, LLC

A psychological assessment and testing is completed by a licensed psychologist. The evaluation is often utilized as a means to clarifying “presenting issues,” diagnostic clarification, and to identify appropriate interventions and recommendations for the client. Evaluations always include a comprehensive clinical interview to gather information about the client, from the client, but also from the client’s parent/guardian or other family member/caregiver. Information regarding the client’s family, medical, educational, vocational, psychiatric, and substance use is gathered. Subsequently, psychological tests are administered and used to address the referral questions or concerns. All tests utilized are designed and validated on similar aged clients. The tests can be interactive, computerized, activity-based, and/or paper and pencil tests. 

 Oftentimes, evaluations are sought out by parents who would like diagnostic clarification for therapy and/or for school supportive services. If a child is having behavioral, social, or academic problems, parents/teachers often want to rule out conditions while also honing in on an accurate diagnosis. For example, a parent may want their child assessed for Autism Spectrum Disorder or a specific mood disorder. For adults, there could be other presenting factors including difficulties maintaining personal and professional relationships, trauma, and/or underlying or conditions that have not been treated effectively. Evaluations are also conducted for the courts in cases where a parent is seeking visitation or custody of their child. In these cases the parents and/or children are often assessed to determine recommendations for the family and/or specifically for the child or parent. 

There is really no way to prepare. However, it is important to understand the purpose of the evaluation and to be honest throughout the assessment process. There is a reason you are referred, and it is usually to determine the best way to move forward and to improve your experiences at home, school, work, socially, and behaviorally. 

Understanding psychological testing and assessment (apa.org)

Psychological Assessment: What Is It & More I Psych Central

Hope and Healing Therapy and Wellness Center's website

Evidence based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Motivational Interviewing, Gottman Marriage Counseling, and many others.

As noted on their website "At Hope and Healing, we understand that mental health is directly affected by physical health. We have found the ability to provide space for movement and mind/body connection within our very own facility to be an invaluable resource to our clients and community members." Services include massage therapy, yoga, and fitness

A podcast on health, wellness, faith, family, and life