Diagnostic Assessment
Effective diagnostic assessments provide clarity and insight into the root causes of various symptoms. These assessments help shape the most effective interventions and can also serve as the basis for the support of applications for academic and testing accommodations.
That said, inaccurate diagnoses can make solutions that much more difficult to attain.
I am frequently engaged to reexamine prior diagnostic assessments. I regard myself as a clinician who can make accurate assessments by paying attention to information that may contradict prior diagnosis and have over 20 years of experience in conducting psychological, academic and neuropsychological evaluations for adolescents and adults.
What is a Diagnostic Assessment?
A diagnostic assessment is a comprehensive process designed to evaluate an individual's cognitive, emotional and behavioral functioning. This evaluation typically combines interviews, questionnaires and standardized tests to collect detailed information about an individual’s strengths, weaknesses and overall functioning.
Assessments provide clarity for numerous conditions, including autism spectrum and attention-related disorders as well as assessing personality traits and determining the most effective course of treatment.
The results of diagnostic assessments can be crucial in determining eligibility for disability benefits and accommodations in educational or workplace settings.
Adult Autism Diagnostic Assessments
Adults with undiagnosed Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face unique challenges that can impact their lives on the most fundamental level, including difficulty in forming and maintaining social connections, challenges in finding and maintaining employment due to social and communication difficulties, higher rates of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression as well as struggles with self-awareness and self-acceptance. The lack of a diagnosis may exacerbate these challenges, as undiagnosed individuals may not have access to appropriate support, resources and understanding of the underlying causes of their difficulties.
Seeking support is an effective skill.
Dr. Kerwin is an Assessment Specialist in California
Dr. Kerwin provides psychological testing to teens and adults residing in California. Contact Dr. Kerwin if you have any questions about psychological testing or are not sure about how to get started.