Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments help determine whether the person has ADHD, or whether another issue (e.g. depression or anxiety) could be contributing to the difficulty with attention.  If the assessment determines that the person has ADHD, the level and particular aspects of the difficulty with attention are analyzed to help determine whether medication is an appropriate treatment option or whether environmental changes are a better way of addressing the difficulty with attention.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop from a variety of different traumatic experiences (assault, combat, accident, et cetera), though not all traumatic experiences lead to PTSD.  It is therefore important to have a thorough assessment for PTSD.  Once assessed, a treatment plan can be developed to effectively address the most prominent symptoms that the person is experiencing.

Bipolar Disorder is a common, yet under recognized and often misdiagnosed condition.  Additionally, several other mental health conditions resemble bipolar disorder and can be erroneously diagnosed as bipolar disorder, leading to an inaccurate treatment plan.  It is therefore often beneficial for a proper psychological assessment to help determine a person’s proper diagnosis before medications or other treatment modalities are begun.

Schizophrenia can be an unfortunately debilitating psychiatric condition, and people with schizophrenia often experience difficulty with their daily independent functioning.  A psychological assessment can help a family determine whether such a person would benefit from assisted living, supportive therapy, guardianship, or other social supports.  Additionally, a psychological assessment can help the family understand the person’s behaviors, and how to provide the person with structure and support.

Some people find themselves unsure of what is causing their emotional distress, or even how to identify what they are feeling.  In situations such as these, it is often advisable to participate in a thorough psychological assessment before beginning therapy such that a clear and detailed conceptualization can be developed to serve as a starting point for therapy.