Psychological Assessments

"Understanding ourselves through psychological assessment is a courageous step toward self-acceptance. When we open ourselves to the insights that emerge, we create space for growth, healing, and transformation." - Carl Rogers

At Unfold Psychology, our clinicians specialize in comprehensive psychological assessments that provide invaluable insights into an individual’s cognitive functioning, emotional well-being, and behavioral patterns. We understand that each person is unique, and our assessments are tailored to address specific concerns and questions.

Our psychological assessment process typically includes a variety of standardized tests and clinical interviews. Some of the key types of assessments we offer include:

Cognitive Assessments

These evaluate various aspects of cognitive functioning, including intelligence, memory, attention, and processing speed. We use well-established tests such as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) or the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities.

Neuropsychological Assessments

These go beyond cognitive testing to examine brain-behavior relationships. They're particularly useful in evaluating conditions like ADHD, learning disabilities, or the cognitive effects of brain injuries. Tests might include the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS) or the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT).

Personality Assessments

hese provide insights into an individual's personality traits, emotional functioning, and interpersonal dynamics. We often use measures like the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) or the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI).

Academic Achievement Tests

These assess specific academic skills and can be crucial in identifying learning disabilities. We might use tests like the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement or the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT).

Emotional and Behavioral Assessments

These focus on identifying and understanding emotional difficulties or behavioral issues. We may use measures like the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) or the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).

Autism Spectrum Assessments

For individuals suspected of having autism spectrum disorder, we use specialized assessments such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS).

Career and Vocational Assessments

These help individuals understand their aptitudes, interests, and values in relation to potential career paths. We might use tools like the Strong Interest Inventory or the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI).

Our clinicians are trained in administering and interpreting a wide range of psychological tests. We carefully select the most appropriate assessment tools based on the individual's age, presenting concerns, and the specific questions we're trying to answer.

The Process

The assessment process typically begins with a comprehensive clinical interview to gather background information and understand the individual’s current concerns. We then administer a battery of tests, which may take several hours or be spread across multiple sessions. After completing the assessments, our clinicians meticulously analyze the results, integrating information from all sources to form a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s functioning.

 

We then prepare a detailed report that not only presents the test results but also provides a thorough interpretation of the findings, a diagnostic formulation if appropriate, and specific recommendations for treatment or support. Our clinicians take care to explain the results in clear, understandable language, avoiding jargon and focusing on practical implications.

 

At Unfold Psychology, we believe that a well-conducted psychological assessment can be a powerful tool for personal growth and improved well-being. Our goal is not just to provide a diagnosis or label, but to offer a deeper understanding of an individual’s strengths and challenges, and to provide a roadmap for moving forward. Whether it’s to clarify a diagnosis, inform treatment planning, or provide accommodations for school or work, our comprehensive assessments provide the insights needed to make informed decisions and take positive steps toward personal growth and success.



The psychological assessment process typically involves several stages:

Initial Consultation and Clinical Interview:
The process usually begins with a thorough clinical interview. The psychologist gathers information about the individual's background, current concerns, symptoms, medical history, family history, and other relevant factors. This helps in understanding the context and formulating initial hypotheses.
Selection of Assessment Tools:
Based on the information gathered during the interview and the specific questions to be addressed, the psychologist selects appropriate psychological tests and assessment methods. These may include standardized tests, questionnaires, observational techniques, and other specialized assessment tools.
Administration of Tests:
The selected tests are administered to the individual. These may include: Intelligence tests (e.g., Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale), Personality assessments (e.g., Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory), Neuropsychological tests (e.g., Wisconsin Card Sorting Test), Achievement tests, Behavioral assessments, Projective tests (e.g., Rorschach Inkblot Test)
Behavioral Observations:
Throughout the assessment process, the psychologist observes the individual's behavior, noting factors such as attention span, frustration tolerance, social skills, and problem-solving approaches.
Collateral Information Gathering:
When appropriate and with consent, the psychologist may gather information from other sources such as family members, teachers, or medical records to provide a more comprehensive picture.
Scoring and Interpretation of Results:
The psychologist scores the tests and interprets the results, considering the individual's background, current circumstances, and the context of the assessment.
Integration of Information:
All the gathered information – from the interview, test results, observations, and collateral sources – is integrated to form a comprehensive understanding of the individual's psychological functioning.
Report Writing:
The psychologist prepares a detailed report summarizing the findings, providing diagnoses if applicable, and offering recommendations for treatment or interventions.
Feedback Session:
The psychologist meets with the individual (and sometimes family members or other relevant parties) to discuss the results, explain the findings, and answer questions. This session also involves discussing recommendations and next steps.
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Time Commitment

The entire process can take several hours to several days, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of tests administered. It's important to note that psychological assessments are not one-size-fits-all; they are tailored to the individual's needs and the specific questions being addressed.

Psychological assessments serve various purposes, including:

Diagnosing mental health conditions

Evaluating cognitive strengths and weaknesses

Assessing personality traits and behavioral patterns

Identifying learning disabilities

Evaluating capacity for decision-making

Informing treatment planning

Assessing fitness for specific roles or tasks

By providing a comprehensive and objective evaluation of an individual's psychological functioning, these assessments play a crucial role in mental health care, educational planning, and various other fields where understanding human behavior and cognition is important.

Our Specialized Assessment Offerings

Personality
Learning Disabilities
IEP Support
IQ Assessments for School Entrance
Educational Accommodation

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Locations

100 Tamal Plaza, Ste. 107 Corte Madera, CA 94925
1955 Mountain Blvd., Ste. 101 Oakland, CA 94611
2860 Laguna St., Ste. 101 San Francisco, CA 94123

Contact

Phone: (650) 993-9321
Fax: (650) 319-6759
Email: careteam@unfoldpsychology.com

Unfold Psychology | A Heafey Practice

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