Psychological Assessment

A psychological assessment involves gathering information through use of validated psychological tests, clinical interviews, review of records, consultation with other professionals (e.g., psychologists, psychiatrists, teachers), and direct observations. All of this information is then integrated by the psychologist to answer questions about the individual’s emotional, intellectual, behavioral, and academic/occupational strengths and challenges.  Using this information, the psychologist can provide an overview of the individual’s functioning and generate recommendations for optimizing strengths and compensating for weaknesses.

Psychological assessment can be used for several purposes including (but not limited to):

• Clarifying diagnostic questions and understanding symptom severity
• Uncovering maladaptive interpersonal patterns causing difficulties
• Understanding intellectual and academic strengths and weaknesses
• Planning for educational and/or career goals
• Understanding various differences in attention/concentration, memory, learning, and emotion regulation
• Facilitating referrals for medication management
• Documenting the need for academic accommodations

Dr. Wilson provides a full range of psychological evaluations for ages 12 and up to answer diagnostic questions, illuminate therapeutic recommendations, and/or aid in treatment planning. Dr. Wilson takes a collaborative approach to psychological assessment and encourages clients to develop questions about themselves, their struggles and their strengths, prior to testing. These questions then help shape the testing process. A variety of well-validated instruments are then administered in a standardized fashion, generally over several testing sessions. At the conclusion of the assessment process, Dr. Wilson provides time to review the report and all of the results with the client in person, allowing time to answer any questions the client might have. This collaborative assessment approach helps clients gain insights that guide them through treatment and beyond.