The term psychological evaluation can be defined as the evaluation of an individual by a qualified and trained psychologist to determine the required mental health services. Several people are specifically referred for specialized testing and mental health screening processes. At the same time, many people must undergo screening for employment, educational, and legal reasons. Most experienced psychiatrists determine the mode and process of evaluation by observing the behaviors and tendencies of individuals. Normally, the purpose and method of mental evaluation vary from one individual to another. But most psychologists focus on a few key components, regardless of the format of the psychological assessment.
Interview: Most psychologists prefer to observe their clients during a personal interview. They simply talk to people to gather information related to their background and current state of mind. When the interviewee is answering the questions, the professional pays close attention to their verbal and non-verbal cues. The respondent’s response is also evaluated based on her tone and inflections of voice. Typically, the psychologist asks questions related to specific questions, situations, and statements. Based on how the interview answers the specific questions, the psychologist determines the necessary steps and measures. However, psychological evaluation can be done through structured and unstructured interviews.
Formal observation: Like interviewing their clients, many psychologists also prefer to observe the person in a formal way. The intentional and unintentional behavior of the individual may indicate her mental health to the psychologist. However, the person may be formally observed with or without any hints or prior knowledge. Professionals also look specifically at how an individual behaves under certain circumstances, and also interacts with others. Some psychologists even prefer this method of mental health assessment to interviews. While observing the individual, professional psychologists can determine the required mental health services.
Psychological testing: Professional psychological evaluation often also consists of a set of formal tests. These psychological tests are used as an effective means of measuring the mental health of an individual based on their specific intelligences, talents and aptitudes. Typically, an individual has to go through a series of tests to measure her personality, intelligence quotient (IQ), ability, and preferences. After each test, the psychologist collects specific information and data. Information and data collected after individual psychological tests are combined to assess the person’s mental health. However, some of the tests are done specifically to eliminate certain mental health services.
Informal Assessment: In addition to formal interviews, observations, and tests, many psychologists also like to conduct informal psychological assessments. A psychologist normally decides the need for an informal evaluation only after evaluating the information and data collected through the formal methods. The psychologist also meets with the person in person to determine what additional mental health services are needed. Informal assessment techniques are commonly applied to children. Based on the information and data collected from the parents, a psychologist decides what additional services the child needs.