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What is an Independent Psychological Assessment? A hook that is effective is one that grabs the reader's attention and makes them want to learn more about your topic. It could be an anecdote, surprise fact, a query or an eloquent quote. Psychologists employ tests, assessments and other tools to assess a client's emotional or mental health issues. These tests include social-security assessments, competency evaluations, sanity assessments in criminal cases, and independent psychological assessment. Evaluations Psychological evaluations are an instrument used by psychologists to assess the mental state of an individual. These assessments are usually used to determine if you are fit to stand trial, but they can also be helpful in a civil lawsuit involving a disability or injury claim. A reliable evaluation service will provide you with quality independent reports that can improve the odds of winning your case. Psychological testing uses a variety methods, such as standard tests and questions. These are used to assess the individual's responses with the normative responses of a group. They can be used to assess various disorders and symptoms such as depression or PTSD and can also be used to test cognitive functioning. Generally, these tests are administered in a clinical setting by a qualified psychologist. It is important to realize that not all tests have the same reliability and accuracy. Particularly, some tests are more suitable for certain populations and culture than others. Some people might have more difficulty with tests which are not developed or designed specifically for them. These limitations can render the results of some assessments misleading or inaccurate. It is essential to find an independent psychologist to perform an objective assessment of your mental health. Typically, those seeking a private psychological evaluation seek out a professional who is employed in the private practice or agency. These professionals tend to have fewer cases and are able to dedicate more time and focus to each person they evaluate. They can also customize their evaluation to meet the needs of each person. For example, a private psychologist can conduct a thorough clinical interview and include personality/emotional tests that are not usually part of the standard testing battery performed by school psychologists. They may also conduct interviews with medical professionals, teachers and other family members as well as outside treatment providers to obtain a more complete picture of an individual's mental health history. Another benefit of private assessments is that they can highlight strengths. Everyone has areas that they could be improved However, it is equally important to know which strengths they have so they can capitalize on their strengths. This is particularly beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with impairments to their mental health. They can utilize their strengths to mitigate their weaknesses. Diagnosis The diagnosis is the identification of mental health issues or conditions and can be crucial in the psychological assessment. The diagnosis is similar to the physical examination where X-rays or blood tests are used to identify the root of the symptoms. The diagnosis may affect the course of treatment, and also the likelihood of a cure and the eligibility for benefits. A variety of factors could affect the clinical practices of clinicians, including reimbursement and authorization requirements (Garland and colleagues. 2003). In several studies, it was shown that social workers and psychologists have different opinions about the importance of diagnosing. Psychiatrists in particular have a less positive attitude toward diagnosing and the standard assessment tools than other practitioners. The process of diagnosing is difficult and requires a thorough examination of medical records and interviews with patients and their family members. Clinicians use a battery standardized psychological tests to assess different aspects of behavior. They also apply their professional judgment when scoring the results. The results are then evaluated and interpreted to determine an assessment. Certain of these tests are objective while other are subjective. Unstructured measures, such as those that have open-ended questions are deemed to be less objective than tests that require pre-determined responses from which the test taker has the option to select. It is crucial to be heard and understood when you or your child undergoes an evaluation of psychological needs. You may want to bring someone with you. This could be a friend, relative or advocate who could represent your interests and opinions. Alternatively, you can solicit the assistance of an advocacy service provided by a mental health charity or your local council. Treatment Usually, tests are used to identify mental health issues or disorders that may be impairing an individual's psychological and behavioral performance. Psychological assessments are designed to determine the root of the problem, so that the patient can receive the appropriate treatment. Psychologists often prescribe specific medications or therapies to treat the symptoms of depression and anxiety, bipolar disorders, ADHD, and other disorders that affect the way we behave and our emotions. Psychological evaluations typically involve testing that is standardized and observation of behavior. They may also include self-report inventories and clinical interviews. The psychologist will analyze these tests to determine a first diagnosis. The results of the evaluation will assist in the creation of a comprehensive treatment program that addresses the immediate and longer-term needs of an individual. These assessments are used mostly to detect psychological and learning disorders in young children. For example, the assessment process can confirm that a child or teenager has Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). As a former advocate for education I discovered that many schools appreciate and appreciate independent psychological evaluations performed by private psychologists as part of their 504 Plans or Individual Education Plans. The benefit of a private evaluation is that the psychologist is able to tailor the assessment to fit the particular situation and concerns. In some instances referrals to neuropsychological evaluations are made in order to determine more detailed aspects of psychological functioning. These types of evaluations can include tests of intelligence, academic performance, neurocognitive abilities and personality and emotional functioning. Psychologists who are trained to conduct these tests typically have more postdoctoral education. The results of an independent evaluation can sometimes be helpful in a personal injury lawsuit. A psychologist can conduct an independent medical examination (IME) to assess whether your psychological injuries were caused by workplace incidents. This type of IME will be conducted by a psychologist that is selected and paid by your employer's insurer. An IME can take place in person, via videoconference or a combination. The psychologist will look over your medical records, make a series observations and interviews with yourself as well as your treatment providers and others who are aware of the incident. Reports The assessment process culminates in the creation of a report, which provides the results of the independent psychological assessment. The report typically contains an introduction, a description of the methods you employed and a thorough description of how you gathered and evaluated the information. Complex terms are usually described in the text or included as footnotes to make the report more understandable. The report is based on a clinical interview with the person and a review of medical records and audio/visual material including collateral contacts, as well as objective evidence like standard tests. IME assessors interpret the results of psychological tests, which have to be administered and understood by someone who is familiar with the principles of test construction. SSA requires that an expert hold a doctoral degree in psychology and be certified to administer and interpret psychometric tests. An IME report examines the consequences of the injury on performance in the workplace and other situations. It will include an assessment of any psychological injuries and ailments and mental health treatment recommendations. Iam Psychiatry will also describe any obstacles to recovery.