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At Guiding Light Consulting, we understand that deciding whether psychological testing is the right choice for you can be a complex process. You might be curious about the assessment process, how long it takes, how to find diagnostic services near you, and the potential costs. Most importantly, you might be wondering how these services can assist you. To address these concerns, we've compiled a list of 15 key facts about psychological evaluations to arm clients with the right information so you can feel at ease knowing what to expect and how to maximize the benefits of the testing experience.

At Guiding Light Consulting, we offer comprehensive psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Norma Love-Schropshire is committed to providing you with the highest quality care and support.

Understanding psychological Testing at Guiding Light Consulting

At Guiding Light Consulting, Dr. Norma Love-Schropshire performs in-depth psychological assessments that take into account various aspects of your life—biological, psychological, social, emotional, and environmental factors. These evaluations are vital for pinpointing the core issues you may be facing and offering a trusted diagnosis. 

After the assessment, you'll receive a comprehensive diagnostic report. This report serves as a crucial tool for healthcare providers you might be working with. It helps guide the treatment plan, ensuring it aligns closely with your unique needs.

The tests employed during these assessments cover a wide range of factors—from biological to emotional—and provide a robust understanding of your abilities and challenges. These insights are key for healthcare professionals to grasp what's going on and why you might be experiencing specific symptoms.

In summary, Guiding Light Consulting psychological testing offers a thorough, individualized picture that serves as a cornerstone for effective treatment planning. Dr. Norma is committed to ensuring that your journey toward better mental health is based on a solid foundation of understanding.

The Purpose of a Psychological Evaluation

Psychological evaluations are conducted to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's psychological and behavioral functioning. They can be particularly helpful for individuals struggling with biological, social, emotional, behavioral or mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, or ADHD. Evaluations can also be used to identify and assess strengths and weaknesses, and to develop personalized treatment plans.

Psychological evaluations are typically conducted by licensed clinical social workers, psychologists or other mental health professionals. The evaluation process may involve a combination of interviews, self-report questionnaires, and standardized tests. The specific tests used will vary depending on the individual's needs and the purpose of the evaluation.

Once the evaluation is complete, the mental health professional will write a report that summarizes the findings and provides recommendations. The report may be shared with the individual's other healthcare providers, such as their primary care physician or psychiatrist.

Benefits of Psychological Evaluations

Psychological evaluations can provide a number of benefits, including:

• Accurate diagnosis of mental health conditions

• Identification of underlying strengths and weaknesses

• Guidance for treatment planning

• Support for personal growth and development

Specific Purposes of Psychological Evaluations

In addition to the general benefits listed above, psychological evaluations can also be used for specific purposes, such as:

• Co-morbid diagnosis: Psychological evaluations can help to identify co-morbid mental health conditions. Co-morbid conditions are two or more mental health conditions that occur together in the same person.

• Pre- and post-surgical evaluations: Psychological evaluations can be used to assess the behavioral and social-emotional functioning of individuals before and after surgery. This information can be used to make decisions about treatment and to monitor the effects of treatment over time.

• Baseline evaluations: Psychological evaluations can be used to establish a baseline of cognitive and emotional functioning. This information can then be used to track changes over time, such as in response to treatment or to disease progression.

• Identifying areas of need: Psychological evaluations can be used to identify areas of daily life where an individual may need assistance, such as with financial management or medication management.

• Assessing rehabilitation potential: Psychological evaluations can be used to assess an individual's potential to benefit from rehabilitation services.

Psychological evaluations can provide valuable insights into an individual's psychological, biological, social-emotional and behavioral functioning. This information can be used to make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment. 

Administering Psychological Tests: Duration and Method

Psychological evaluations typically take 2 to 5 hours to complete, but may take up to 8 hours or multiple sessions depending on the complexity of the patient's condition and the issues being addressed. Factors such as fatigue, confusion, and motor slowing can also lengthen the evaluation time.

A variety of methods to administer psychological tests, including:

Interviews: Clinical Social Workers will interview the patient to gather information about their background, environment, medical history, symptoms, and current situation.

Self-report questionnaires: Clinical Social Workers will ask the patient to complete screening questionnaires that assess their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Standardized tests: Clinical Social Workers will administer standardized tests that measure psychological, social-emotional functioning, and behavior.

The specific tests that are used will vary depending on the individual's needs and the purpose of the evaluation. For example, a Clinical Social Worker may use different tests to evaluate a child with ADHD than they would use to evaluate an adult with depression.

Clinical Social Workers take great care to ensure that the evaluation process is fair and accurate. They will typically provide the patient with breaks and instructions on how to complete the tests. They will also observe the patient's behavior and ask questions to clarify their answers.

The goal of a psychological evaluation is to get a comprehensive understanding of the patient's strengths and weaknesses, and to identify any underlying mental health conditions. This information can then be used to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the patient's individual needs.

Here are some tips for getting the most out of a psychological evaluation:

• Be honest and open with the Clinical Social Worker. The more information you can provide, the better the Clinical Social Worker will be able to understand your situation and make recommendations.

• Ask questions if you don't understand something. The Clinical Social Worker is there to help you, so don't be afraid to ask for clarification.

• Take breaks if you need them. The Clinical Social Worker will typically provide breaks throughout the evaluation, but don't be afraid to ask for one if you need it sooner.

Do your best to answer the questions honestly and accurately. The Clinical Social Worker is trying to get a comprehensive understanding of your strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to be as honest as possible.

If you are scheduled for a psychological evaluation, there is no need to be nervous. The Clinical Social Worker is there to help you, and they will do their best to make the process as comfortable as possible.

What Motivates People To Seek Psychological Testing Services?

Psychological testing services can be helpful for a variety of reasons, including:

• Diagnosis: Psychological testing can help to diagnose a wide range of biological, behavioral, and social-emotional disorders, such as Autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, and ADHD.

• Treatment: The results of psychological testing can be used to develop a personalized treatment plan for a variety of conditions. For example, the results of testing can be used to determine the best type of medication, therapy, or educational support for an individual.

• Progress tracking: Psychological testing can be used to track the progress of treatment or to monitor the course of a condition over time. This can be helpful for both the individual and their healthcare team.

• Accommodations: The results of psychological testing can be used to qualify individuals for certain educational or occupational accommodations. This can help individuals to succeed in school or work despite their challenges.

• Legal reasons: Psychological testing may be required for legal purposes, such as determining someone's competence to stand trial or to make certain legal decisions.

• Research participation: Psychological testing may also be used in research studies related to a variety of conditions.

Here are some specific examples of how psychological testing can be helpful:

• A child who is struggling in school may undergo psychological testing to determine if they are emotionally impaired or socially maladjusted. The results of the testing can be used to develop an individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 plan with specific accommodations to help the child succeed in school.

• An adult who has experienced trauma or grief may undergo psychological testing to assess their symptoms, though processes, emotional regulation skills, and coping mechanisms and to determine if they need therapy, medication or a combination of both. The results of the testing can be used to develop a personalized treatment plan to help the individual recover and live full and productive lives. 

Psychological testing can be a valuable tool for both individuals and their healthcare teams. It can help to provide a diagnosis, develop a treatment plan, track progress, and qualify for accommodations.

Who Performs Psychological Evaluations?

Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW/LMSW) are trained professionals who specialize in assessing and treating people with biological, behavioral, psychological, and social-emotional disorders. They have undergone extensive specialized training in psychology and social work.

 Scope of Practice for Clinical Social Workers in Michigan

Licensed clinical social workers in Michigan operate under a specific scope of practice. They do not:

• Diagnose or treat physical illnesses or injuries

• Prescribe medications

• Conduct tests specifically related to brain functioning, including cognitive testing that examines aptitude, achievement, academic intelligence, or IQ testing, learning disabilities, neurology, cognitive impairments, head injuries, speech, giftedness, or developmental delays

This type of neuropsychological testing requires a licensed psychologist, neurologist, psychiatrist, medical doctor, or physician.

Licensed clinical social workers are trained to assess and treat people with biological, behavioral, psychological, and social-emotional disorders. They can provide psychological evaluations to assess a person's background, relationships, environment, mental health and well-being. They can use this information to diagnose mental health conditions, develop treatment plans, and provide therapy. Licensed clinical social workers may also refer clients to other specialists for further assessment or treatment.

Licensed clinical social workers play an important role in the mental health care system in Michigan. They provide comprehensive and compassionate care to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Why Choose a Clinical Social Worker for a Psychological Evaluation?

There are several reasons why you might choose a clinical social worker for a psychological evaluation:

Licensed clinical social workers are trained to assess the whole person, including biological, behavioral, psychological, and social-emotional factors. This can lead to a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of the client's situation and mental health.

• Licensed clinical social workers are trained to provide a variety of treatment modalities, including therapy, support groups, and case management. This means that they can provide a seamless transition from assessment to treatment.

• Licensed clinical social workers are typically more accessible than other mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists and psychologists.

• Licensed clinical social workers have a strong commitment to social justice and equity. They are committed to providing culturally competent care to all clients.

If you are considering a psychological evaluation, I encourage you to consider a clinical social worker. Licensed clinical social workers are highly trained, experienced, and compassionate professionals who can provide you with the care you need.

Comprehensive Psychological Assessment Instruments

Specialized Psychological Assessment Instruments

• Personality Assessment

  • Minnesota Multiphasic Personality InventoryⓇ - 3 (MMPI - 3)

• ADHD/Executive Function

  • The Brown Executive Functioning Scales (Brown EF/A Scales): Specifically designed for ADHD assessment.

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

  • The Clark-Beck Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory (CBOCI)

• Behavior Rating Scales

  • Behavior Assessment System for Children-Second Edition (BASC-2): Parent, Teacher, Child versions.

  • Behavior Rating Index of Executive Functions (BRIEF)

  • Conners 3 Rating Scales: Parent and Teacher versions. Designed for ADHD assessment

• Adaptive Behavior Assessment Tools

  • Scales of Independent Behavior – Revised

  • Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales

• Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment Tools

  • Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2)

  • The Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile ®

  • Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R)

  • Autism Spectrum Rating Scale

  • Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS)

  • Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ)

  • The High Functioning Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ)

The Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) offers a multidimensional approach to evaluating both adaptive and maladaptive behavior across the lifespan.

Age-Specific Scales:

• Ages 1½-5: Autism Spectrum Problems scale aligns closely with DSM-5 criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

• Ages 6-18 and 18-59: Revised Anxiety Problems scale is concordant with DSM-5 criteria for various anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Specific Phobia.

• Ages 6-18 and 18-59: Revised Somatic Problems scale aligns with DSM-5 criteria for Somatic Symptom Disorder.

DSM-Oriented Scales: Depressive Problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Problems, Oppositional Defiant Problems, Conduct Problems, Avoidant Personality Problems, and Antisocial Personality Problems.

Additional Scales: Emotionally Reactive; Anxious/Depressed; Somatic Complaints; Withdrawn; Sleep Problems (CBCL only); Attention Problems; Aggressive Behavior.

Forms and Instruments:

• CBCL/1½-5 and C-TRF: For younger children.

• Brief Problem Monitor (BPM/6-18™): Multi-informant assessment available for parents (BPM-P), teachers (BPM-T), and youths (BPM-Y).

• School-Age Forms: CBCL/6-18 (parents); TRF/6-18 (teachers); YSR/11-18 (youths).

• Multicultural Options: Module with Multicultural Options for Ages 6-18 (MMO/6-18) and a dedicated Multicultural Supplement.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all comprehensive psychological assessment instruments, but it does include some of the most commonly used and well-validated instruments.

How to Find a Psychological Testing Provider?

Finding a service provider is straightforward, but finding a great provider can be challenging.

When searching for a provider consider whether or not they have experience with the population that fits your criteria. Does the provider only see adult patients or do they hold experience that allows them to see children and teens too? Most great providers will provide as much information as they can to their clients through their websites or over the phone. 

If possible, try to meet with your professional before agreeing to any type of test being performed on yourself or a loved one. This will allow you both time to get comfortable with each other before starting any type of testing process. Testing providers confident in their skill set offer quick psychological testing consultation calls to alleviate client worries.

Online sources to find a great psychological testing provider

1. Google: Googling related terms that are near will provide you with a good list of providers in the local area. Narrow that list down to a list of 5-10 providers and give them a call. Ask them the same questions and visit their websites! This will help target your list and get on a schedule with a provider that’s the best fit for you and one that you trust the most.

2. Your Doctor

3. Psychology Today

How Long Does a Full Psychological Evaluation Take To Complete From Start To Finish ?

It’s crucial to understand that while the testing process is not invasive, it is not swift either. It requires a considerable investment of time and effort.

Psychologists must gather information from several sources, including the client, their family, and other medical professionals who may have seen the person before. It takes many hours of involved clinician time. The length of time it takes varies depending on how many tests are administered and how quickly an individual responds to tasks. Tests can take anywhere from one hour to several days depending on how many neurocognitive batteries need to be administered. Typically on average a full neuropsychological assessment, if done the right way, takes approximately 12-15 hours to complete and is spread across 3 appointments.

Appointment #1 – Intake: This is also referred to as the initial evaluation where the psychologist gathers background information and medical history on the client. This is a very important step and it’s advised that the client prepares to answer all questions truthfully and in detail. The intake usually lasts about an hour.

Appointment #2 – In-person testing: Expect to be in the office for approximately 4-7 hours. Once the client is done with the administration of the battery, the psychologist will begin back-end analysis and report production.

Protocol Analysis and Diagnostic Report Production: This is an extremely important step and could take just as long to complete as the in-person testing. A good psychologist will score and analyze all the information to make an accurate assessment of the client to produce an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment recommendations. Report production can take as little as 3 business days (if the clinician is working around the clock) or 6 weeks and possibly longer (if they’re waiting on insurance claims to process).

Appointment #3 – Feedback: Once the diagnostic report from your neuropsychological assessment is produced, the client is encouraged to schedule their last appointment in the series so that your psychologist can go over the results, answer all your questions, and clear up any confusion about their treatment recommendations.

Neuropsychological exams can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially if you don’t know what to expect. After all, it involves being in a room with someone who’s asking you to do things you’ve never done before — and that can be intimidating.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. If you know what to expect during the test and how long it will take, then you’ll feel more confident and relaxed when you’re there.

Can a Psychological Exam Be Done Virtually Using a Telehealth Platform?

Yes, some psychological tests can be done virtually using a Telehealth platform. However for ethical reasons, some tests may need to be conducted in person, or the client may need to send a video. This is because some tests require the clinician to be able to observe the client's behavior and interactions in person. Additionally, some tests may require the use of specialized equipment that is not available in a Telehealth setting. If you are considering taking a psychological exam virtually, be sure to talk to your clinician about whether or not the type of test you need can be administered online. 

Here are some things to keep in mind when considering a virtual psychological exam:

• Be sure to have a quiet and private place where you can take the test without distractions.

• Let your clinician know if you have any technical difficulties during the test.

What Tests Are Commonly Used During A Psychological Assessment?

The tests or protocols used in a psychological assessment will vary depending on the symptoms you are experiencing and the designed clinician battery.

Clinical social workers commonly use the following tests:

• Cognitive assessments: These tests measure specific areas of cognition (thinking skills, thought processes and mental state) such as attention and memory.

• Executive function assessments: Executive function includes planning, organizing, and regulating behavior such as delaying gratification or controlling impulses. Tests of executive function often involve making quick decisions while ignoring distractions and remembering how choices were made.

• Behavioral assessment: This is an evaluation of how well an individual interacts with others, including their social skills and their ability to control impulsive behaviors.

• Personality assessment: This is an evaluation of how an individual behaves when interacting with others in different situations.

• Attention Tests: Measure your ability to pay attention and focus on tasks.

How To Prepare For A Psychological Assessment.

Truthfully, there is no way to study or prepare yourself for what is to come. This is done by design. The best thing anyone can do to prepare themselves is to get plenty of rest the night before the appointment. If you’re traveling a long distance to your in-person appointment, you should consider lodging the night before. Adequate sleep, hydration, and a healthy breakfast are key.

What Conditions Are Diagnosed By Psychological Assessments?

The following conditions are commonly diagnosed:

• ADHD: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a lifelong condition that causes inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness.

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ASD is a group of developmental disorders characterized by difficulties with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors or interests.

• Neurodegenerative diseases: Like Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia

• Biological or Genetic Disorders

• Social - Emotional Issues

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

• Trauma

• and other conditions per DSM criteria!

What Does a Psychological Report Look Like?

This is a question that clients ask often. To help clients understand the process better we provided a complete redacted example of a psychological report.

COMING SOON and always upon request!

In conclusion, psychological testing is a valuable tool for both clients and medical professionals. It can help clients by empowering them to make sound, well-informed decisions regarding their healthcare and treatment.  With the information that we have provided you here, you will be able to move forward with confidence and find the provider that fits your needs and delivers the service you deserve.

Where To Get Psychological Testing Services

At Guiding Light Consulting, Dr. Norma Love-Schropshire provides comprehensive psychological testing services for children, teens, and adults. Dr. Norma is a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of experience in psychological testing and assessment. She is committed to providing her clients with the most accurate and insightful information possible about their social-emotional and behavioral health.

Psychological testing can be used to assess a wide range of conditions, including:

• ADHD

• Autism spectrum disorder

• Mood disorders

• Anxiety disorders

• Trauma-related disorders

• Personality disorders

• Cognitive impairments

Psychological testing can also be used to identify strengths and weaknesses, and to develop personalized treatment plans.

If you are interested in getting psychological testing services, Guiding Light Consulting is an excellent choice. Dr. Norma is a highly skilled and experienced clinical social worker who is committed to providing her clients with the best possible care.

Why Choose Guiding Light Consulting for Psychological Testing?

• Dr. Norma Love-Schropshire is a licensed clinical social worker with over 23 years of experience in psychological testing and assessment.

• She uses a variety of scientific, empirical and evidence-based assessment tools to get a comprehensive understanding of each client's needs.

• She is committed to providing her clients with accurate and insightful information about their social-emotional and behavioral health.

• She provides recommendations for personalized treatment plans based on the results of the testing.

• She is committed to providing her clients with the best possible care.

If you are looking for a qualified and experienced professional to provide you with psychological testing services, Dr. Norma Love-Schropshire of Guiding Light Consulting can offer the comprehensive services you need.