Diagnostic Assessments
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A diagnostic assessment is a comprehensive process used by mental health professionals (like clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers or mental health counselors) to understand an individual's psychological functioning, identify potential mental health conditions, and inform treatment planning. It typically includes a clinical interview, a review of records, personality and cognitive testing, and a feedback session.
Purpose of Diagnostic Assessments
One of the purposes of a diagnostic assessment is to understand someone’s functioning by identifying cognitive, social, and emotional areas of strength and weakness. Other purposes include identifying contributing factors to the person’s current difficulties and identifying specific recommendations for treatment. Lastly, carefully identifying a diagnosis or diagnoses, after having ruled out other similar disorders. This can help arrive at an informed prediction about how someone might respond to treatment, what kind of treatment would be needed, and whether the mental health issues identified are short-term or long-term.
Think of it as a deep dive into someone's thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and cognitive abilities to get a clear picture of what's going on and why. It's much more than just a casual conversation or a single questionnaire.
Diagnostic Assessments at PACS
In some cases, evaluations are conducted for legal reasons, such as competency evaluations or risk assessments. PACS clinicians are forensic experts with years of experience conducting this type of evaluation. You can learn more about our forensic services here.
You can also email us at info@pacsnyc.com for more information.