Psychological testing
Psychological testing is used for a number of purposes including diagnostic clarification, assisting in treatment planning, pre-surgical evaluations, occupational clearances, and the evaluation of cognitive functioning. This process usually involves interviews, completion of questionnaires, and tests administered by a clinician. The type and number of tests used depends on the referral question being investigated. Testing may consist of a brief screening, or a more lengthy and comprehensive process.
What you can expect from the testing process:
- Most often psychological testing begins with a clinical interview conducted by the psychologist in which the individual explains their concerns or symptoms, and a detailed developmental and family history is collected. Following the interview, the psychologist will administer of a battery of tests designed to answer the specific referral question. Upon completion of the testing, the results are analyzed and written into a report. For most evaluations, a feedback session where the results are explained is available.
- If you are referred for testing and an interview has already been conducted, plan to come to the office for 2-3 hours to complete the prescribed tests. Most tests cannot be completed outside of the clinic because of test security. If necessary, testing can be completed over multiple days, although this is not always optimal.