If you are a college student whose grades are slipping, cannot focus, or are feeling anxious and depressed such that you are struggling in school, then an assessment may be warranted. If you are the parent of a child in elementary school, middle school, high school, or college and they are struggling with social, emotional, or academic issues then an assessment may be warranted for purposes of differential diagnosis and treatment planning. Finally, adults who are faltering at work and feel they cannot focus or are forgetful would likely benefit from an assessment. Whereas psychiatrists often make diagnosis after a simple interview, psychologists utilize psychological tests to elucidate maladaptive patterns in a patient’s life with data. In other words, an assessment is the most reliable and accurate way to achieve a psychological diagnosis, especially important in the case of children who may need powerful medications. Common diagnostic categories that stem from assessments include ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, depression, anxiety, OCD, autism, and bipolar disorder. Once a diagnosis is made, then effective treatment recommendations and referrals to the best providers can be made so healing can begin. In sum, a psychological assessment is a powerful tool used to develop a comprehensive treatment plan so that time is not wasted, and psychological health can be achieved and maintained.
