Mental Health Assessments

Psychological screening is used to identify adults and children who may be experiencing mental health difficulties. Screening measures are often brief questionnaires completed by clients, although there are also interview based screening questionnaires, and self-rated questionnaires which clients complete. Screening tests are quick and easy to administer, but they only provide an indication of what may be going on. The counsellor will then wish to use a more definitive test in order to confirm the screening result.

Taking the time and effort to complete a psychological assessment can support a qualified clinician in making a formal diagnosis of a mental health problem. Getting an accurate diagnosis will help determine the appropriate treatment. The more information you have, the more you will be prepared to work with your mental health professional in understanding what your symptoms may represent.

Once the assessment is complete, mental health professionals will then be able to better create a treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms and develop healthy coping skills. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve therapy and/or medication. There are several approaches to therapy to treat a variety of conditions including: cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, EMDR, play therapy, mindfulness, exposure and response therapy and more. Your therapist, doctor and psychiatrist will work together to determine what combination of treatment approaches will be the most helpful to you.