Assessment
Assessment
Psychological and Neuropsychological Evaluations In Chicago and Northbrook
Psychological and neuropsychological testing is at the core of what we do at Wellington Counseling Group. We believe in the power of objective data, while leveraging the latest science and our clinical experience to formulate a comprehensive understanding of the various factors that affect one’s well being. When it comes to mental health, many symptoms can masquerade as one another, making treatment difficult without the insights for diagnostic testing. Evaluation can be an essential part of effective therapy.
Psychological vs Neuropsychological Testing
WCG offers both types of “evaluations,” which are also referred to as “assessments” or the process of “testing.” Many of these terms are often used interchangeably. Neuropsychological evaluations are typically focused on brain-based factors such as memory, attention, and concentration, while psychological evaluations also add depth to social and emotional factors. A WCG clinician will guide you as to the exact type of service that is required for your concerns.
What To Expect From A Psychological Assessment
Whether you’ve been referred for a psychological assessment by a medical doctor, another therapist, or other care providers, you will likely have some questions about what to expect, why you’re doing it, and what you can gain from the process. While some patients find the concept of a psychological assessment to be intimidating and stressful, we’re here to reassure you that there’s nothing to be afraid of. The psychological testing process will provide you and your treatment team with a comprehensive understanding of the symptoms affecting your well-being.
Psychological Assessments From Wellington Counseling Group
At Wellington Counseling Group, we specialize in several different types of evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. The psychological assessment services available in our Chicago and Northbrook offices include:
- ADHD & Executive Functions
- Adoption Evaluations
- Forensic Evaluations
- Gifted & IQ Testing
- Learning Disorders
- Memory Evaluations
- Mood & Anxiety
Each of these specialized assessments may look a little different, but because they are designed to collect the same type of information. The fundamental elements involved in the psychological testing process will look much the same.
What A Psychological Assessment At WCG Looks Like
Depending on the needs of the individual patient, the timeline of your psychological assessment may vary. Typically, we spread this assessment out over multiple sessions that works with your schedule, though, we have found that daytime assessments often yield the best results.
Generally speaking, the psychological evaluation process may include any or all of the following:
- 1-2 hour interview where we speak with the patient and their family to gather history that may be contributing to current symptoms
- 4-6 hours of face-to-face test administration that may include puzzles, academic tasks, self-report questionnaires, and creative tasks
- Questionnaires to be completed by parents, teachers, spouses, etc.
- Interviews with other care providers
- In-school observations (if needed)
- 1-2 hour feedback session following the final testing to discuss key findings and intervention recommendations
- A final written evaluation with recommendations
How Can You Prepare For An Assessment
The first thing you’ll want to do when you’ve scheduled an assessment is send over all of your medical, academic, and psychological records. If you’re taking medication, be sure to let your clinician know prior to meeting. Then, on the day of testing, you’ll want to come well-fed and well-rested so you can focus entirely on the tasks at hand.
What Information Are We Gathering?
The format of the psychological assessment will vary, but the ultimate goal is to provide an inventory about one’s strengths and weaknesses across a variety of domains, including intelligence, academics, social, emotional, personality, executive functioning, attention, and impulse control.
What Does A Psychological Assessment Cost?
Wellington Counseling Group works with some insurance carriers and can help you identify whether or not your psychological testing will be covered. Our team is happy to provide an estimate of total out-of-pocket expenses, whether you’re using insurance or not. See additional information regarding insurance here.
Contact our psychological testing team in Chicago to learn more or book your appointment.
