Testing and Evaluation Therapists in Orinda, CA

Photo of Deidre Doyle, PhD, LEP, NCSP, PPSC
Deidre Doyle
PhD, LEP, NCSP, PPSC
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
If your child, teen, or young adult is struggling academically, emotionally, or socially, I am here to help. As an Educational Psychologist with years of experience, I am uniquely qualified to evaluate your child's learning style and create a plan that helps them succeed in school. I specialize in the intervention and assessment of individuals with Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities, and Emotional Disorders. An evaluation can uncover the causes of your child's difficulties with learning, behavior, or social functioning. The focus is on attention, memory, reasoning, and emotional functioning. Results provide parents with diagnoses and intervention recommendations.
If your child, teen, or young adult is struggling academically, emotionally, or socially, I am here to help. As an Educational Psychologist with years of experience, I am uniquely qualified to evaluate your child's learning style and create a plan that helps them succeed in school. I specialize in the intervention and assessment of individuals with Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities, and Emotional Disorders. An evaluation can uncover the causes of your child's difficulties with learning, behavior, or social functioning. The focus is on attention, memory, reasoning, and emotional functioning. Results provide parents with diagnoses and intervention recommendations.
(925) 406-3894 View (925) 406-3894
Photo of Grace Malonai - TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment , PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
TheraThrive Counseling & Assessment
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
We offer therapy, assessment, evaluation, and consultation to children, teens, adults, couples, co/parents, families, and groups.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
We offer therapy, assessment, evaluation, and consultation to children, teens, adults, couples, co/parents, families, and groups.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional intensity, high sensitivity, loneliness, insomnia, or relationship problems, or if your child or teen struggles with excessive worry, moodiness or sadness, you don't need to manage alone. We are a group of authentic and interactive therapists who are strengths-based in our approach. Let us help you (or your child, teen, family member) gain insight and understanding, learn emotional regulation, improve your relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, improve satisfaction at work/school, and experience well-being and empowerment. www.TheraThrive.com
(925) 350-8130 View (925) 350-8130
Photo of Emily Tucker, PhD, ABSNP, Psychologist
Emily Tucker
Psychologist, PhD, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
Dr. Tucker specializes in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for school-aged children, teens, and young adults that are personalized and focused on understanding the individual as a whole. In addition to identifying areas of challenge, Dr. Tucker highlights each person's strengths and uses these strengths to inform interventions. Her assessments yield an integrated picture of a child's cognitive, academic, and social-emotional development as well as specific recommendations for improving functioning in all three areas. A goal of the assessment process is for each family to emerge empowered and equipped to move forward.
Dr. Tucker specializes in comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations for school-aged children, teens, and young adults that are personalized and focused on understanding the individual as a whole. In addition to identifying areas of challenge, Dr. Tucker highlights each person's strengths and uses these strengths to inform interventions. Her assessments yield an integrated picture of a child's cognitive, academic, and social-emotional development as well as specific recommendations for improving functioning in all three areas. A goal of the assessment process is for each family to emerge empowered and equipped to move forward.
(925) 403-4440 View (925) 403-4440
Photo of Barton Lynch, PsyD, Psychologist
Barton Lynch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
"Anyone with children knows that they are challenging as well as rewarding. It is when these challenges outweigh the loving relationship that children start to typically manifest symptoms. Due to internal and/or environmental stresses, children can become withdrawn, oppositional, easily overwhelmed, and scared. This in turn can compromise your child's present and future relationships, academic performance, self-esteem, and the parent-child relationship. When difficulties are addressed early, children gain a sense of mastery and safety lasting a lifetime." Dr. Lynch has worked with young children in preschool, research, state/county, and clinical settings over the last ten years.
"Anyone with children knows that they are challenging as well as rewarding. It is when these challenges outweigh the loving relationship that children start to typically manifest symptoms. Due to internal and/or environmental stresses, children can become withdrawn, oppositional, easily overwhelmed, and scared. This in turn can compromise your child's present and future relationships, academic performance, self-esteem, and the parent-child relationship. When difficulties are addressed early, children gain a sense of mastery and safety lasting a lifetime." Dr. Lynch has worked with young children in preschool, research, state/county, and clinical settings over the last ten years.
(925) 308-5238 View (925) 308-5238
Photo of April Jourdan, PhD, LEP, ABSNP, BCBA-D
April Jourdan
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PhD, LEP, ABSNP, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
I have worked in education for over 20 years. I obtained a Ph.D. in Counseling and Human Development. I am also a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP#3002), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D#1-11-9745), and a Diplomat from the American Board of School Neuropsychology (ABSNP#10246). In addition, I hold a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in the areas of: Counseling, Child Welfare and Attendance, and School Psychology. My areas of special training and expertise include school neuropsychological evaluations, functional behavioral assessments, and treatment planning for a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that affect learning and behavior.
I have worked in education for over 20 years. I obtained a Ph.D. in Counseling and Human Development. I am also a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP#3002), Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D#1-11-9745), and a Diplomat from the American Board of School Neuropsychology (ABSNP#10246). In addition, I hold a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in the areas of: Counseling, Child Welfare and Attendance, and School Psychology. My areas of special training and expertise include school neuropsychological evaluations, functional behavioral assessments, and treatment planning for a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that affect learning and behavior.
(628) 400-0469 View (628) 400-0469
Photo of Hannah Acevedo, MS, LEP, ABSNP, BCBA
Hannah Acevedo
MS, LEP, ABSNP, BCBA
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to navigate the educational system to get help for learning or behavioral challenges? I am here to help support parents and students, making the pathway to success for your particular situation more clear and manageable. I specialize in assessment and intervention planning for a range of pediatric disorders that affect learning and behavior. I take care to make the entire consultation or assessment process feel positive, understandable and helpful. I provide School Neuropsychological assessments, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans, and consultation around educational and behavior issues at school or at home.
Are you struggling to navigate the educational system to get help for learning or behavioral challenges? I am here to help support parents and students, making the pathway to success for your particular situation more clear and manageable. I specialize in assessment and intervention planning for a range of pediatric disorders that affect learning and behavior. I take care to make the entire consultation or assessment process feel positive, understandable and helpful. I provide School Neuropsychological assessments, Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs), Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs), Behavior Intervention Plans, and consultation around educational and behavior issues at school or at home.
(510) 683-5930 View (510) 683-5930
Photo of Deborah Collins Babb, PsyD, LEP
Deborah Collins Babb
PsyD, LEP
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
I work with students and their parents to understand a student's strengths and weaknesses and how best to support them, both academically and social-emotionally. Students that I work with may be experiencing challenges related to learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dycalculia, or dysgraphia, or struggling with managing their attention, concentration, and impulsivity due to Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder to address anxiety, depression and social skills, and helping parents learn how to best support their child.
I work with students and their parents to understand a student's strengths and weaknesses and how best to support them, both academically and social-emotionally. Students that I work with may be experiencing challenges related to learning disabilities, such as dyslexia, dycalculia, or dysgraphia, or struggling with managing their attention, concentration, and impulsivity due to Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder. I have a particular interest in supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder to address anxiety, depression and social skills, and helping parents learn how to best support their child.
(925) 478-4072 View (925) 478-4072
Photo of Christina Iglesia, PsyD, Psychologist
Christina Iglesia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
Support Available for CA & NY Residents. Your decision to pursue therapy is an important and personal one. Whether you are looking to address lingering issues or searching for support for ongoing concerns, you do not need to do it alone. Therapy is one of the few opportunities in which you are encouraged to explore and express your authentic self, allowing for deeper personal connections and engagement in life.
Support Available for CA & NY Residents. Your decision to pursue therapy is an important and personal one. Whether you are looking to address lingering issues or searching for support for ongoing concerns, you do not need to do it alone. Therapy is one of the few opportunities in which you are encouraged to explore and express your authentic self, allowing for deeper personal connections and engagement in life.
(925) 448-9291 View (925) 448-9291
Photo of Eric Anderson - Pathway Therapy Center, LMFT, CSAT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pathway Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
At Pathway Therapy Center we help individuals and couples repair find recovery from sex and pornography addiction. Is your relationship in crisis because of a recent discovery? Have you just found out about your partner's affair or betrayal? Do you have a problem with a process addiction such as video gaming or compulsive spending? We are here to help with a team of expertly trained clinicians who specialize in helping those dealing with sexually addictive patterns and other process addictions. Further we have specialists who help partners deal with the impacts of having discovered that their relationship was not what they once thought it was.
At Pathway Therapy Center we help individuals and couples repair find recovery from sex and pornography addiction. Is your relationship in crisis because of a recent discovery? Have you just found out about your partner's affair or betrayal? Do you have a problem with a process addiction such as video gaming or compulsive spending? We are here to help with a team of expertly trained clinicians who specialize in helping those dealing with sexually addictive patterns and other process addictions. Further we have specialists who help partners deal with the impacts of having discovered that their relationship was not what they once thought it was.
(510) 767-0880 View (510) 767-0880
Photo of Ari Oklan, PhD, Psychologist
Ari Oklan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orinda, CA 94563
I use a warm, down-to-earth approach in my work with children, teens, adults and couples. I collaborate with clients to develop a whole view of challenges and strengths, which is informed by my wide breadth of clinical experience across the lifespan. I have expertise in working with infants and parents, developmental disabilities, trauma, and both anticipated and unexpected crises across all ages. I integrate these perspectives so that I can attune to your needs and provide responsive support. My hope is to help you water the seeds of your inner strengths, push through stuck situations, and live with more connectedness and vitality.
I use a warm, down-to-earth approach in my work with children, teens, adults and couples. I collaborate with clients to develop a whole view of challenges and strengths, which is informed by my wide breadth of clinical experience across the lifespan. I have expertise in working with infants and parents, developmental disabilities, trauma, and both anticipated and unexpected crises across all ages. I integrate these perspectives so that I can attune to your needs and provide responsive support. My hope is to help you water the seeds of your inner strengths, push through stuck situations, and live with more connectedness and vitality.
(510) 298-3299 View (510) 298-3299
Photo of Deborah A Lindstrom, MA, LMFT, LEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deborah A Lindstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my practice! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 118472) and a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 3619) located in the East Bay Area of California. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I have a breadth of experience working with adults, couples, adolescents, and children. Additionally, as a licensed educational therapist, I am here to help if you or your child is having difficulty in school or at work. I provide quality psychoeducational evaluations, advocacy for 504 accommodations and IEPs, and consultations for families and districts.
Welcome to my practice! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 118472) and a Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP 3619) located in the East Bay Area of California. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I have a breadth of experience working with adults, couples, adolescents, and children. Additionally, as a licensed educational therapist, I am here to help if you or your child is having difficulty in school or at work. I provide quality psychoeducational evaluations, advocacy for 504 accommodations and IEPs, and consultations for families and districts.
(925) 291-5766 View (925) 291-5766

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lori Ann Spampinato, PhD, Psychologist
Lori Ann Spampinato
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
You're welcome to learn about my Consultation and Evaluation practice. In brief, I have a developmental life span relationship-based biopsychosocial approach to viewing most difficulties in life. I use a thorough assessment, observation, and testing approach because you or your child is unique and needs specific issues addressed precisely. Let's work together to find solutions that allow you or your child to develop and change in healthy ways.
You're welcome to learn about my Consultation and Evaluation practice. In brief, I have a developmental life span relationship-based biopsychosocial approach to viewing most difficulties in life. I use a thorough assessment, observation, and testing approach because you or your child is unique and needs specific issues addressed precisely. Let's work together to find solutions that allow you or your child to develop and change in healthy ways.
(415) 935-3921 View (415) 935-3921
Photo of India B. Gomez, PhD, Psychologist
India B. Gomez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I am accepting clients for therapy, coaching, and testing. E-mail is the best way to reach me for a consultation. As a clinical psychologist, I offer therapy and coaching for personal/professional growth. I work with clients to enhance coping with stress, bolster resiliency, and overcome obstacles to living more fully. I also specialize in psychological/personality and intellectual/academic testing and assessment. I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, as well as a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities.
I am accepting clients for therapy, coaching, and testing. E-mail is the best way to reach me for a consultation. As a clinical psychologist, I offer therapy and coaching for personal/professional growth. I work with clients to enhance coping with stress, bolster resiliency, and overcome obstacles to living more fully. I also specialize in psychological/personality and intellectual/academic testing and assessment. I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds, as well as a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities.
(925) 392-3428 View (925) 392-3428
Photo of Gregory Alter - Brain Wellness Center, PhD, BCIA, ABPP, Psychologist
Brain Wellness Center
Psychologist, PhD, BCIA, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Our experienced clinicians at Brain Wellness Center use responsible and scientific evaluation along with non-medication based treatment alternatives.
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE BEFORE CONTACTING ME. I offer non-medication-based options such as neurofeedback to address issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. I am a licensed psychologist with specializations in scientifically based assessments such as qEEG Brain Mapping and non-medication based solutions such as neurofeedback, tDCS, TMS, and Auditory Integration Training. I am part of a multidisciplinary group and we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website https://brain123.com to better understand what we do before calling.
Our experienced clinicians at Brain Wellness Center use responsible and scientific evaluation along with non-medication based treatment alternatives.
PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE BEFORE CONTACTING ME. I offer non-medication-based options such as neurofeedback to address issues of anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism. I am a licensed psychologist with specializations in scientifically based assessments such as qEEG Brain Mapping and non-medication based solutions such as neurofeedback, tDCS, TMS, and Auditory Integration Training. I am part of a multidisciplinary group and we treat children, adolescents, and adults. Please visit our website https://brain123.com to better understand what we do before calling.
(510) 734-0885 View (510) 734-0885
Photo of Arwin Cotas-Girard - Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Arwin Cotas-Girard, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I hope to spark curiosity within my clients and answer any questions that they may have about themselves throughout the evaluation and/or therapeutic process.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
I hope to spark curiosity within my clients and answer any questions that they may have about themselves throughout the evaluation and/or therapeutic process.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent therapy and comprehensive psychological assessment services for all ages. I also specialize in the evaluation of Autism Spectrum Disorder, particularly for girls and women. I am trained in Therapeutic Assessments and consider my evaluations to be brief therapeutic interventions that may allow healing and change to occur through the process of self-discovery and reworking of narratives. I work collaboratively with my clients, their caregivers, and other important people and systems in their lives to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs.
(925) 212-4757 View (925) 212-4757
Photo of Jennifer Myers Harrison, PsyD, ABPP, ATR-BC, DAAETS, Psychologist
Jennifer Myers Harrison
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, ATR-BC, DAAETS
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Additionally, she provides psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults.
Therapy Partners work with children, adolescents, families, and adults at all different stages in their lives. We use an integrative model for the treatment of mental health issues drawing on evidenced-based treatments as well as best practices in the field of psychology. We understand how important it is for you to find someone you can trust and work closely with when facing difficult transitions and challenging times. To ensure a good fit between client and clinician, we provide a free initial consultation so that both client and therapist can feel confident about working together.
Additionally, she provides psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults.
Therapy Partners work with children, adolescents, families, and adults at all different stages in their lives. We use an integrative model for the treatment of mental health issues drawing on evidenced-based treatments as well as best practices in the field of psychology. We understand how important it is for you to find someone you can trust and work closely with when facing difficult transitions and challenging times. To ensure a good fit between client and clinician, we provide a free initial consultation so that both client and therapist can feel confident about working together.
(650) 727-1757 View (650) 727-1757
Photo of Karen Egu, PsyD, Psychologist
Karen Egu
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
Additionally, I specialize in psychological testing for ADHD, cognitive and intelligence testing, autism spectrum disorders, social and emotional functioning.
Hello and welcome. Therapy can offer a safe and validating space to navigate through some of life's challenges. My approach is supportive, evidence-based, integrative, culturally-informed, collaborative, and respectful. I use my passion, advocacy, and expertise in mental health services to provide my clients with the language and safety to discuss mental health struggles to foster a meaningful life. I look forward to working with and supporting you in your mental and emotional health journey.
Additionally, I specialize in psychological testing for ADHD, cognitive and intelligence testing, autism spectrum disorders, social and emotional functioning.
Hello and welcome. Therapy can offer a safe and validating space to navigate through some of life's challenges. My approach is supportive, evidence-based, integrative, culturally-informed, collaborative, and respectful. I use my passion, advocacy, and expertise in mental health services to provide my clients with the language and safety to discuss mental health struggles to foster a meaningful life. I look forward to working with and supporting you in your mental and emotional health journey.
(925) 297-1673 View (925) 297-1673
Photo of Dr. Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(510) 319-0360 View (510) 319-0360
Photo of Stephanie N. Williams, MA, MS, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie N. Williams
Psychologist, MA, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605
Waitlist for new clients
Testing includes referrals for differential diagnoses, cognitive assessment, neuropsychological assessment, forensic based evaluation, and disability evaluations.
***** Dr. Williams is only accepting referrals for psychological assessment and evaluation***** Dr. Williams is the clinical director of Integrated Psychological Assessment Services (IPAS). She helps clients Improve their quality of life through insight-oriented and skill-building psychotherapy. Clinicians at IPAS value your unique experiences and your cultural identities. We focus on the connection between what you think, feel and do, and how changes can improve a persons life. While IPAS is a diverse practice, Dr. Williams' specializes in the change of life, work-life balance, and career transitions.
Testing includes referrals for differential diagnoses, cognitive assessment, neuropsychological assessment, forensic based evaluation, and disability evaluations.
***** Dr. Williams is only accepting referrals for psychological assessment and evaluation***** Dr. Williams is the clinical director of Integrated Psychological Assessment Services (IPAS). She helps clients Improve their quality of life through insight-oriented and skill-building psychotherapy. Clinicians at IPAS value your unique experiences and your cultural identities. We focus on the connection between what you think, feel and do, and how changes can improve a persons life. While IPAS is a diverse practice, Dr. Williams' specializes in the change of life, work-life balance, and career transitions.
(408) 317-0687 View (408) 317-0687
Photo of Barbara Hooks, PsyD, Psychologist
Barbara Hooks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I also conduct psychological testing.
I believe that therapy can be a catalyst not only for insight, but also for transformation. Life can be challenging, and at times, despite our best efforts we can feel stuck or lost. I strive to provide a calm and compassionate space where you can get in touch with what matters most to you, and use that as a guide to making changes in your life. I offer specific strategies and tools to help you change your relationship to difficult thoughts and feelings, and work collaboratively with you to take steps toward a life that is full of vitality and personal fulfillment. My style is warm and genuine, interactive, and culturally-sensitive.
I also conduct psychological testing.
I believe that therapy can be a catalyst not only for insight, but also for transformation. Life can be challenging, and at times, despite our best efforts we can feel stuck or lost. I strive to provide a calm and compassionate space where you can get in touch with what matters most to you, and use that as a guide to making changes in your life. I offer specific strategies and tools to help you change your relationship to difficult thoughts and feelings, and work collaboratively with you to take steps toward a life that is full of vitality and personal fulfillment. My style is warm and genuine, interactive, and culturally-sensitive.
(530) 250-4129 View (530) 250-4129
Testing and Evaluation Therapists

What is a psychological evaluation?

A psychological evaluation is a test or assessment most commonly administered by a trained psychologist that is intended to be used in the diagnosis of specific psychological conditions, such as ADHD, mood disorders, personality disorders, dementia or Alzheimer's, and learning disabilities. Psychological evaluations can help inform future treatment decisions and help direct clients to professionals and resources that may be most helpful, such as potential therapy options or additional school supports.

Can psychological evaluations be done on individuals of any age group?

Psychological evaluations are conducted on individuals of all ages and can be beneficial to individuals across the lifespan. However, specific types of evaluations may be most frequently conducted on individuals of certain age groups. For instance, ADHD or learning disability testing is often conducted in children ages 4-12--the period of time when ADHD symptoms most commonly emerge. In contrast, cognitive functioning assessments, such as those conducted to diagnose dementia, are most commonly conducted in elderly individuals. Clients should ensure that the psychologist they are seeing has specific expertise in conducting evaluations in their age group to ensure they receive a correct diagnosis.

How long does a psychological evaluation take?

Psychological evaluations vary in length depending on the test being administered and the goals of the evaluation; however, most evaluations are 2-4 hours in length. Some evaluations may take as long as 8 hours but can often be spread across multiple days. In some cases, clients will also attend an intake session or interview, which can help the psychologist assess client functioning outside of the testing environment.

How should I prepare for a psychological test and evaluation?

Individuals do not need to prepare for psychological tests or evaluations in most cases, as they are intended to measure a client's baseline psychological status without test-specific preparation. However, clients may want to brainstorm a list of questions for their psychologist about any tests they are receiving prior to the assessment, including what potential outcomes may mean for what next steps the client should take.