Psychological Testing

Veridian Behavioral Health offers a wide range of psychological testing services, which can help in the diagnosis of a variety of psychological, cognitive, emotional, and personality disorders. Our two licensed clinical psychologists, Dr. Jeremy D. Morris and Dr. Phillip Flanders, conduct and direct the assessments. Some of the testing may be administered by Andrea Ring and Summer Rhoads, our masters-level psychologists. In offering psychological testing services on site, Veridian Behavioral Health is able to maintain its philosophy of being able to provide a wide spectrum of diagnostic and treatment options under the same roof.

What is psychological testing?
Psychological testing is a process of understanding how a person thinks, learns, and feels. It is also helpful in gaining a more complete understanding of how they interact with and interpret their world. Psychological testing begins with an initial clinical interview conducted by Dr. Morris. This interview consists of collecting a developmental history, which includes information about the patient’s health, behavioral, emotional, social, academic, and occupational backgrounds. This information is useful in understanding life-long patterns which may be present, and which often shed important light on the reasons behind the problem for which the patient is seeking care. Following this session, Dr. Morris will determine the nature and scope of the testing that is required and will schedule an appointment to complete the assessment. During the testing appointment, a series of tests are given, which measure all types of psychological functioning. After testing is completed a feedback session will be scheduled to discuss the test results, diagnoses, and recommendations.
The psychologists are available to communicate with the patient’s primary health care provider/physician, attorney, or other parties in order to arrange for and coordinate care in the most effective manner.

How can psychological testing be used?
There are many clinical situations where psychological testing can be of great use, as results of the process can help in both the diagnosis and treatment planning. Psychological testing can identify the presence of many conditions: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Schizophrenia, mood and anxiety disorders, attachment issues in children, to name just a few. 

Learning disabilities in the areas of reading, mathematics, writing, and oral expression can also be identified, as can the presence of developmental problems such as Autism and Asperger’s Disorder. In individuals who have experienced trauma or illness, changes in memory and thinking can be identified, as can the presence of Alzheimer’s disease or other degenerative cognitive problems. Behavior problems such as Conduct Disorder or Oppositional-Defiant Disorder can also be identified as an outcome of the testing process. Finally, there are times when psychological testing can be of great importance in creating insight into one’s personality and inner world.

Ultimately, the importance of psychological testing lies in its ability to help health care providers to more clearly understand what is causing the patient problems, so that an individualized intervention plan can be developed. Such a plan may include the use of medication, teaching or organizational and planning strategies, special considerations made in the school setting, recommendation for psychotherapy or behavior modification, and/or many other creative strategies, depending on the problems identified.
How long does psychological testing take?
The entire testing process can take anywhere from three to ten hours, depending on the particular problem being evaluated, with each patient’s battery of tests being individualized to the particular set of circumstances which they present. Testing is carefully planned to assure that the patient is not caused any unnecessary psychological stress or fatigue by marathon testing sessions. However, most people find the process of psychological testing to be relatively enjoyable, and are able to learn a great deal about themselves as a result of their testing experience.

What types of tests are given for different problems?
There are several types of psychological test batteries which are offered at Veridian Behavioral Health.

Giftedness Testing: Giftedness testing is done when a child or adolescent seems to be exceptionally bright, and placement in special programs for talented children is available.

ADHD / Learning Disability Screening: Testing for ADHD and learning disabilities involves an in-depth assessment of one’s IQ, academic and attention skills, and personality style. With information collected in all of these areas, the psychologists are able to understand whether some of the patient’s problems may be due to ADHD and/or other psychological problems.

Cognitive Functioning / Memory Testing: The evaluation of cognitive functioning is usually carried out in adults who are experiencing difficulties with memory loss or daily functioning. Often, there are questions regarding the possible presence of Alzheimer’s disease or some other type of memory problem.

Personality Testing: Testing of this type is needed when an individual is having difficulty coping with life in such a manner that suggests they are experiencing difficulties within the core of their personalities. Testing will help them learn about themselves and how to make positive growth in their life. 

Pervasive Developmental Disorder Testing: There are times when a child, adolescent or even adult’s behavior suggests the presence of a pervasive developmental disorder, such as Autism or Asperger’s Disorder. Testing is essential in these cases as the proper diagnosis is necessary for early intervention.

What does testing cost?
Fees for testing vary depending on the length of the assessment and are determined on an hourly basis. Most insurances cover psychological testing, though some may require a referral from a primary care physician or psychiatrist. We suggest you contact your insurance provider about the specific benefits your plan may have in this regard before you make an appointment with our office.

Should you be interested in making an appointment for psychological testing, or have any questions about the testing process, contact Veridian Behavioral Health at 785-452-4930.