Labels are helpful in offering some clear-cut solutions for specific problems, but labels can and should change over time as the client progresses with therapy. Assessments should be always be used with the ultimate aim of improving a client's life.
Psychological assessments can help psychologists determine whether medical attention is necessary for the client. If so, the psychologist or counselor would need to recommend the client see a psychiatrist, who would then reassess the client using different parameters. For instance, a psychiatric assessment would include more information about the patient's medical history, medication history, and allergic reactions. Psychiatric tests might include specialized computer-aided tests like brain scans. When a psychiatrist administers medications to the client, he or she will also make assessments based on the patient's reaction to the drugs. Assessments can also draw attention to therapies and medications that are having an adverse affect.
Through continual assessments, counselors can make appropriate changes to their clients' treatment plans if necessary. Initial assessments often require follow-ups, especially for complex cases or cases in which the individual demonstrates multiple symptoms. Accurate psychological assessments can vastly improve a client's well-being by providing for optimal therapies. Incorrect diagnoses can lead to a worsening of symptoms, especially when medications are incorrectly prescribed.
Psychological assessments...
In rare cases, a psychologist will observe a client without his- or her- express knowledge, such as young children. However, such assessments are always made with the consent of the parents or guardians. More often, psychological assessments are conducted in clinical settings. When a client visits a counselor for the first time, he or she will likely be given some simple questionnaires. The initial information the psychologist will gather include basic demographical information like age, gender, income, and level of education. Next, the psychologist will want to investigate the client's history. The client's history is gleaned both from interview sessions as well as through more formal means such as obtaining records from previous psychologists or doctors. History can also be obtained by meeting with friends or family members. Psychological assessment interviews are also designed to ascertain what the client's immediate symptoms are: from physical signs like fatigue or skin rashes, to emotional ones like depression or mania, to cognitive ones like recurring thoughts or obsessions. Assessments will also include an evaluation of the nature of the client's interpersonal relationships, including family history, because such information can greatly enhance the counselor's understanding of the client's status.
References
Psychological Testing vs. Psychological Assessment." (2003). Online at < Psychological Testing vs. Psychological Assessment>.
