How To Obtain A Psychological Evaluation at New Dimensions

Struggling with mental health issues can be exhausting, for both those affected and those around them. Especially without answers, it can feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately, psychological evaluations offer a valuable tool for understanding and addressing these concerns. 

Whether you are seeking treatment at New Dimensions or simply need a plan of action, a comprehensive psychological evaluation can be the first step towards achieving a greater sense of mental well-being. In this article, we explore the significance of psychologic evaluations, the difference between evaluations for treatment and medication, and how to get a psychological evaluation to benefit from professional psychological testing services.

What is a Psychological Evaluation?

A psychological evaluation, or a psych eval, is a systematic process conducted by trained professionals to assess a person’s mental health, cognitive abilities, personality traits, and emotional functioning. The evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s psychological well-being and identify any underlying issues that may require attention or treatment.

Types of Evaluations

The field of psychological evaluation encompasses four key types of assessments:

• Cognitive Function Assessment: This evaluation focuses on measuring a person’s intellectual capabilities and potential through IQ tests. These tests include both intelligent tests and neuropsychological assessments to gauge cognitive abilities.
• Behavioral Evaluation: A behavioral assessment aims to understand and analyze a broad range of behaviors and emotions. It proves especially valuable when the root cause of problematic behaviors or symptoms is uncertain.
• Clinical Interviewing: Psychologists employ clinical interviews as a crucial tool for accurately diagnosing various mental illnesses. There are two common types: structured clinical interviews and clinical diagnostic interviews.
• Personality Analysis: By conducting a personality assessment, psychologists gain insights into the genetic, environmental, and social factors shaping an individual’s personality. This knowledge aids in devising the most suitable treatment approach for the person.

Who Should Consider a Psych Eval?

A psych eval is often helpful for people who are seeking insights. Some of the most common cases where psychological testing can be helpful are: 

• Behavioral issues: Individuals with significant behavioral problems, anger management issues, aggression, or impulse control difficulties may benefit from an evaluation to understand the underlying causes and potential treatment options.
• Learning difficulties: Students who are struggling academically or displaying signs of learning disabilities or attention deficit disorders might need a comprehensive assessment to identify their specific needs and provide appropriate support.
• Developmental concerns: Children showing delays in milestones or parents concerned about their child’s social, emotional, or cognitive development should consider seeking a psychological evaluation.
• Neuropsychological concerns: Individuals who have experienced brain injuries, concussions, or neurological disorders may undergo neuropsychological assessments to evaluate cognitive function and rehabilitation needs.
• Eating disorders: Individuals with eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge-eating disorder may undergo an evaluation to guide treatment planning.
• Personality disorders: Individuals with persistent patterns of maladaptive behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that significantly impact their functioning and relationships might require an evaluation to assess for personality disorders.

Advantages of Psychological Evaluations

• Unveiling Diagnostic Insights: Numerous psychological disorders exhibit overlapping symptoms, making it challenging to pinpoint the primary driver behind the existing issues. By employing psychological testing, we can gain valuable clarity in diagnosing the central concern.
• Illuminating Individual Functioning: Insights into an individual’s current level of functioning and their potential for improvement are made possible through psychological testing, paving the way for a better understanding of their future capabilities.
• Guiding Treatment Objectives: Psychological testing serves as a compass, directing treatment efforts towards specific areas that require attention, ultimately enhancing the overall treatment outcomes.
• Revealing Underlying Complexities: Unearthing the root causes of problematic behaviors, psychological testing delves into the depths of underlying disorders, shedding light on factors that may be contributing to the current challenges.

How to Get a Psych Eval

If you or a loved one are considering a psych evaluation, the first step is to contact New Dimensions at 800-685-9796. Our staff can schedule a time for you to meet with a psychologist to discuss your needs. Here’s what to expect when you schedule a psych eval:

• Initial Consultation: The process typically begins with an initial consultation. During this meeting, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and reasons for seeking an evaluation. Here, we will also gather biopsychosocial information from the patient and caregiver.
• Comprehensive Assessment: After the consultation, the mental health professional will conduct a comprehensive assessment. This may involve more interviews, assessments, and standardized tests to gather relevant information about your mental health.
• Evaluation Report: Once all the necessary data has been gathered, a detailed evaluation report will be compiled. This report will provide insights into your mental health, potential diagnoses, and recommendations for treatment or further assessment if necessary. A session will cover the sharing of this information with the patient and family.

Seeking a psych evaluation is one of the first steps toward understanding and addressing mental health challenges or addiction. Whether you are considering treatment at New Dimensions or exploring the possibility of medication support, a thorough evaluation can provide valuable insights that pave the way to recovery and well-being. Connecting with professional psychological testing services can allow you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing with the guidance of trained experts. Taking care of your mental health is a courageous step, and seeking a psych eval can be a positive move toward a more meaningful life.

New Dimensions Can Help!

To learn more about Psychological Evaluations, Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and Interventions for Substance Abuse, contact us at 800-685-9796 or visit our website at www.nddtreatment.com. We have outpatient counseling programs for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues. To learn more about individual, family, and couples counseling visit www.mhthrive.com.

Keywords: New dimensions; Psych eval; Psych evaluation; Psychological testing; Treatment options

References

• Committee on Psychological Testing, Including Validity Testing, for Social Security Administration Disability Determinations; Board on the Health of Select Populations; Institute of Medicine. Psychological Testing in the Service of Disability Determination. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2015 Jun 29. 3, Overview of Psychological Testing.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK305233/
• Jhanjee S. Evidence based psychosocial interventions in substance use. Indian J Psychol Med. 2014 Apr;36(2):112-8. doi: 10.4103/0253-7176.130960. PMID: 24860208; PMCID: PMC4031575.
• https://www.verywellmind.com/get-your-teen-a-psychological-evaluation-2610450