Be. Holistic psychological evaluations provide a comprehensive approach to assessing mental, emotional, and behavioral functioning by integrating various methods and perspectives.
Unlike traditional psychological assessments, which may focus narrowly on specific symptoms or cognitive abilities, Be.’s holistic approach to testing seeks to understand the individual in the context of their entire life, including their physical health, emotional state, interpersonal relationships, cultural background, and spiritual beliefs. All these areas will be considered and will provide clarification of diagnosis and help direct the treatment process. The testing process may incorporate the use of visual, written, and/or verbal evaluations to assess psychological functioning.
Our approach to psychological evaluations considers multiple facets when assessing a psychological profile. We specifically focus on individuals ages 6 to 18, with neurodevelopmental, anxiety, mood, and behavioral presentation considerations.
Whole-Person Approach
Holistic psychological testing considers the person as a whole rather than focusing on isolated traits or symptoms. It recognizes that mental health is influenced by a variety of interconnected factors, including physical health, environment, lifestyle, and personal values.
Multi-Method Assessment
Holistic testing uses a variety of assessment tools and techniques to gain a broad understanding of an individual. This can include standardized psychological tests (e.g., IQ tests, personality assessments), projective tests (e.g., Rorschach inkblot), clinical interviews, self-report questionnaires, behavioral observations, and even biological markers, such as stress levels or neuroimaging data.
Contextual Consideration
The individual is assessed within their broader life context. Cultural, social, familial, and environmental factors are taken into account. This includes understanding how cultural beliefs, societal expectations, and life experiences shape an individual's mental health and behaviors.
Integration of Multiple Perspectives
A holistic assessment often involves input from multiple sources, such as: the client, family members, teachers, additional practitioners, etc. The goal is to provide a more comprehensive and complete picture of the individual’s functioning and presentation across different domains of life. This helps clarify if the presentation and concerns are isolated to one context or appear in numerous.
Client-Centered Focus
The approach emphasizes collaboration with the individual, fostering an environment where the person feels empowered and involved in the process. This contrasts with more clinical or objective methods where the practitioner is the primary authority.
Strength-Based Evaluation
Holistic psychological testing not only focuses on identifying problems or weaknesses but also on recognizing the strengths, coping mechanisms, and resilience factors the individual may possess. This helps to provide a balanced view and encourages positive growth.
Key Components to Be. Holistic Psychological Testing
Holistic Assessment
This model is frequently used in holistic testing and takes a comprehensive look at biological, psychological, and social factors that impact the individual’s current functioning. For example, the biological aspect may include genetic predispositions or neurobiological conditions; This may include an assessment of intellectual and cognitive abilities, emotional and behavioral health, as well as relational and cultural influences.
Behavioral Observations
Various setting observations may be discussed with the evaluator to provide additional information about how the client is functioning in real-world environments. These observations may be completed by teachers and/or parents during school and social interactions and this information may be solicited to provide multi-context information.
Cultural and Spiritual Considerations
Understanding the individual’s cultural background, spiritual beliefs, and values is critical. Holistic testing acknowledges that these factors can significantly impact mental health and well-being, guiding the interpretation of results and subsequent interventions.
Physical Health Integration
Physical health assessments may also play a role in holistic testing. Chronic illnesses, medication side effects, or even nutrition can influence mental health, so these factors are included in the assessment.
What Can I Expect from the Testing Process?
Do I need an initial consultation?
An Initial Consultation is not always included in the process, but can be requested to address any questions and/or concerns related to the process. This process will most likely not be covered by insurance. Please inquire about fees associated prior to scheduling.
Purpose | This is a conversation to further understand your needs, concerns, and goals for testing to determine if testing is warranted.
What Happens | We'll discuss your child’s personal history, current challenges, and the questions you'd like the testing to answer (e.g., diagnosis, treatment planning).
Duration | Typically lasts 30-60 minutes.
Steps to prepare:
Intake Preparation
All Be. documents should be completed and returned prior to intake this information will help the evaluator prepare and determine what testing is appropriate.
Previous Testing
Please bring a copy of any previous testing completed to the Intake
Intake Process:
1. Initial Diagnostic Intake
Scheduled for 60 - 90 minutes. This intake will entail a comprehensive review of history, presentation, needs, and current concerns.
2. Test Administration
This is the appointment where the actual tests will be administered. The duration of this process varies based on the needs and presentation of the client. Typically this process can be 2 - 8 hours, take place over the course of several days depending on the scope of the assessment.
3. Scoring and Analysis
This is the process of scoring and interpreting the test results. This is completed after the testing administration and the client is not present.
4. Feedback Session
This session is used to explain the results, the meaning of them, and to discuss the implications of the results.
5. Follow-Up Session
(If Needed)
The purpose of this session is to provide further feedback and ongoing support.