Mental Health Evaluation
A mental health assessment can provide useful information and insight into behavioral problems, emotional issues, and cognitive difficulties. Certain psychiatric or medical conditions can result in unexpected changes in behavior and thinking. The resulting problems can be confusing and hard to understand for everyone involved.
If you are looking for a mental health assessment in Denver, contact us for a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs.
Two Types of Mental Health Assessments:
Psychological Assessment
Psychological testing is provided when there is a concern that mental health issues are significantly affecting a person’s mental state and/or social, academic, or work performance. Oftentimes, the exact nature of the underlying problem is not well understood or there are conflicting opinions about what is happening and what should done to help. Our psychological assessments can provide a comprehensive analysis and assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning.
Common Reasons for Referral:
- Mood swings
- Impulsive behavior
- Aggressive behavior
- Interpersonal problems
- Adjustment problems (work or school)
Possible Contributing Factors:
- Mood Disorder (Depression or Bipolar)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Psychotic episodes (Schizophrenia)
- History of abuse, neglect, or assault
- Family problems and life stressors
Neuropsychological Assessment
Neuropsychological assessments are provided when there is a concern that cognitive problems are significantly interfering with a person’s ability to cope or function in some aspect of life, whether that is a relationship, work, or activities of daily living. In some case, there is identifiable event that is known to potentially affect cognitive functioning (such as a brain-related injury or the onset of a medical condition). In other cases, the exact cause or circumstances leading to cognitive changes is less clear and a thorough evaluation of cognitive functioning is indicated.
Common Reasons for Referral:
- Memory problems
- Attention problems
- Problem solving difficulty
- Sudden personality changes
Possible Contributing Factors:
- Onset of dementia (Alzheimer’s)
- Neurologic conditions (Parkinson’s, MS, Stroke)
- Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Overlap Between Psychological & Cognitive Functioning
It is important to recognize that there can be an overlap between psychological functioning and cognitive functioning. For example, depression can significantly interfere with concentration. Likewise, certain neurologic problems are associated with depression. As a result, most of our assessments involve both psychological and cognitive testing. The exact test battery and assessment procedure that we use varies depending on the client and the referral questions.
Clinical Assessment Versus Forensic Psychology Evaluation
The key distinction between clinical assessment and forensic psychology evaluation involves two central considerations: what is the purpose of the assessment and who receives the findings and written report.
Clinical Assessment occurs when a person (or their legal guardian) requests a psychological or neuropsychological assessment for purposes of his or her mental health or medical care. The results of the assessment and the feedback session is provided to the client. If the client so chooses and provides written authorization, the results may also be disclosed to the referring provider or family members.
Forensic Psychology Evaluation typically occurs in a known legal context such as criminal case, health services investigation, or a civil claim. The person requesting the evaluation is usually an attorney, case worker, probation officer, or judge (the Court). The purpose of evaluation is to provide information to the requesting party and may be used as part of the legal or administrative proceeding. In these situations, the written report and any associated testimony or deposition may be further disclosed to other parties or become part of the legal proceeding.
Why a Mental Health Evaluation?
A mental health evaluation is designed to gather and assess relevant information that can be used to address referral questions, clarify diagnostic considerations, and assist with treatment planning. The assessment process typically involves meeting for a clinical interview and completing a battery of psychological and cognitive tests. We might also ask to review relevant records or speak with people that can provide additional information. After reviewing and analyzing all the data, we write a comprehensive report and provide a feedback session.
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