Tests & Assessments
The purpose of tests and assessments in psychology
The purpose of tests and assessments in psychology is similar to the purpose of medical tests. If you had physical symptoms, your doctor might order some blood tests or an X-ray to help determine what may be causing the issue.
The results of the tests help your GP to inform and develop a treatment plan. Our psychological tests do the same thing! As psychologists, we use tests and other assessment tools to measure and observe behaviours to arrive at a diagnosis or to guide treatment.
Common Tests & Assessments
with which we are able to assist:
- NBehavioural Concerns
- NIQ Assessments
- PExecutive Dysfunction
Why do we use tests & assessments?
We may administer tests and assessments for a variety of reasons. It may be that you or your child experiences difficulties at school (academically or socially), have problems socially, in personal relationships, or at work. Psychological tests and assessments help your clinician to understand the nature of your concerns and will help inform them of the best way to provide treatment.
What are tests and assessments?
Tests and assessments are separate, but related components of how we will evaluate you at The Psych Professionals. We use both types of tools to arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Testing involves using formal tests. These may include questionnaires or other checklists. These tests are norm-referenced, meaning that they have been standardised so that all individuals who complete the test are evaluated in the same way, no matter where they live or who administers the test. For example, a norm-referenced test of a child’s working memory recall ability will rank the child’s ability compared to other children of similar age and/or grade level. Norm-referenced tests have been shown to be effective for measuring a particular trait or disorder.
A psychological assessment includes several components, including norm-referenced psychological tests, informal surveys, clinical interviews, as well as school or medical reports/records, if applicable. Our job, as your psychologist, is to determine the most appropriate information to use based on the specific question being asked. Together, testing and assessment allows us to best see the full picture of you or your child’s strengths and limitations.
What can I expect?
If you think that you require a test or assessment, contact us and we will be able to go through your options and recommendations with you. Firstly, we will ask you to come in and have a talk to one of our psychologists to work out what tests and assessments you may need. Your psychologist may also ask for copies of other reports you may have, or for any other relevant information. From that point, we can let you know if you will need to be booked in for further assessments, provi
What are some reasons people have for wanting an assessment?
There can be many reasons why you may wish to have an assessment done. Some common reasons for assessments include determining a child’s readiness for starting school, to investigate behavioural concerns, IQ assessments, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and difficulties with executive function. If you are unsure what you require, please book in a session with one of our psychologists, who will be able to assess your specific needs.
Are you ready to take the next step?
If you are ready to explore how you can be supported to live your best life, get into contact with our team now.