Tests and assessments are two separate but related components of a psychological evaluation. Psychologists use both types of tools to help them arrive at a diagnosis and a treatment plan. Testing involves the use of formal tests such as questionnaires or checklists. These are often described as “norm-referenced” tests. That simply means the tests have been standardized so that test-takers are evaluated in a similar way, no matter where they live or who administers the test. A norm-referenced test of a child’s reading abilities, for example, may rank that child’s ability compared to other children of similar age or grade level. Norm-referenced tests have been developed and evaluated by researchers and proven to be effective for measuring a particular trait or disorder.
A psychological assessment can include numerous components such as norm-referenced psychological tests, informal tests and surveys, interview information, school or medical records, medical evaluation and observational data. A psychologist determines what
information to use based on the specific questions being asked. For example, assessments can be used to determine if a person has a learning disorder, is competent to stand trial or has a traumatic brain injury. They can also be used to determine if a person would be a good manager or how well they may work with a team.
Together, testing and assessment allows a psychologist to see the full picture of a person’s strengths and limitations.
Currently we offer Neuropsychological, Psychosocial, and Psychological Assessments.
Assessment designed to evaluate a wide range of developmental and acquired conditions. The assessment describes specific skills and brain function and diagnoses affecting development, functioning, and cognitive abilities. Areas often evaluated include: cognitive development, attentional abilities, language, executive functioning, memory, information processing, and social emotional
functioning.
These assessments include an evaluation of social, emotional, and behavioral functioning related to it may impact an individual’s ability to function in social, occupation, academic, or other important areas of life. General social emotional evaluations normally cover social skills, mental health (depression, anxiety, anger, impulse control, etc.) and behavior. Assessments may include formal testing, personal and collateral rating scales, interviews and observation.
These assessments are designed to be a broad evaluation of cognitive, social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties that may be causing a significant impact on one’s ability to function in day to day life. This process of testing uses a combination of techniques to help determine and explain the difficulties and deficits affecting a person and their behavior, personality and capabilities.
140 E. Commonwealth Ave,
Suite 101
Fullerton, CA 92832
25255 Cabot Rd, Suite 210
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
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