Adult assessment in Calgary

Psychological assessment

An evidence-based evaluation of emotional symptoms and psychological functioning, organized around a specific clinical, functional or independent question.

Purpose

Clarifying symptoms and their functional impact

Psychological assessment brings together the person’s history, current concerns, relevant records and standardized measures. The goal is to develop a coherent understanding of the symptoms and explain how they may affect daily life, work, relationships or recovery.

The scope is set by the referral question. An assessment may focus on diagnostic clarification, the interaction between psychological and physical symptoms, barriers to recovery, functional limitations or recommendations for treatment and support.

The process

A structured, question-focused evaluation

  1. 01

    Establish scope

    The referral question and the decisions the findings will support determine what information is required.

  2. 02

    Assess and integrate

    Clinical interview, records and standardized measures are considered as a whole.

  3. 03

    Report clearly

    Conclusions, limitations and recommendations are expressed in practical terms and tied to the referral question.

A distinct service

Psychological and neuropsychological assessment are not interchangeable

Psychological assessment primarily examines emotional and psychological functioning. Neuropsychological assessment places greater emphasis on cognitive abilities such as memory, attention and problem-solving. Some referral questions require elements of both.

Before an assessment begins, the referral question is reviewed to determine the most appropriate scope.

Ask about assessment fit

Contact Sharp Thinking

Start with the question you need answered.

Services are provided in Calgary, Alberta.

Contact and referral information

Please do not include personal health or other confidential information in email.