What is Testing/Assessment Used For?

The purpose of testing is often to clarify a diagnosis using empirically validated measures along with structured interview questions. The formal report produced from testing can be used in academic settings for learning disability accommodations, in medical settings for medication management, and in conjunction with therapy to aid in personal or treatment needs (to name a few). Many times people come to testing wanting to know if they meet criteria for a certain diagnosis, while others use it to discover more about themselves.

How Long is Testing/Assessment?

Testing/Assessment is a time-limited process that consists of three main appointments:

• Intake appointment

• One to three sessions of testing

• Feedback appointment

How Does Testing/Assessment Work?

1.)During the intake session, the psychologist will ask questions about things like symptoms, medical and psychological history, family, and education. Specific questions about your history helps the psychologist know what tests to administer. After the testing session, the psychologist will then interpret the test data within the context of your history. *

2.) For adults, at the testing appointment(s), you will take both self-guided and interactive measures on a computer or tablet, and the psychologist will ask you specific questions about your symptoms. For children/youth, your child will take both clinician-assisted and interactive measures on a computer, tablet, or using pencil and paper. The psychologist will also ask follow-up questions from the measures and spend time building rapport with your child so that he/she/they are comfortable.

Testing measures are empirically validated, meaning they are based in research and science.

3.) At the feedback appointment, the psychologist will go over all the results with you by showing you graphs and conceptualizing your unique experience. Through this research-based approach, we are able to draw connections, make appropriate diagnoses, and give evidenced-based recommendations that are tailor-fit for you! *

*Please note, children under 12 do not attend these two appointments.

Who Does Psychological Testing?

Psychological evaluations are unique to the field of psychology, and testing at Quest is conducted by a supervising psychologist who holds a doctorate degree. As Quest is a training site for doctoral students and postdoctoral residents in clinical and school psychology, many times testing includes a masters or doctoral level psychometrician (person who administers the tests). This psychology team works collaboratively to provide a comprehensive report for you! Having multiple eyes on the data also helps us bring you such a detailed report!

Do I Need a Referral?

No. Many clients come at the prompting or suggestion of a therapist or medication provider. However, no formal referral is necessary. To make an appointment, simply call the office at 757-828-5927 or send an email to appointments@questpsych.org.

How Do I Know Which Type of Testing is Right for Me or My Child?

When considering what type of testing you or your child needs, firstly think about the purpose of the report and where it is going. What are the main concerns you have? Are they related to mood, attention, social skills, functioning in relationships, or behavior? Who initially encouraged you to receive an evaluation? Was it the school, your therapist, your medication prescriber, or a concerned friend? Similarly, where will the report go once the testing is completed? Will it go to your child’s or your treatment team, will it go to the school, or both? Asking yourself these questions may help narrow down which type of evaluation is best for your circumstances. And as always, our administrative team is happy to assist with any questions you may have!

Do You Take My Insurance?

Quest is currently credentialed with Sentara Health Plans (formerly Optima) and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. We made the decision to limit the panels we take due to insurance often standing in the way of quality and ethical care. Our main challenge has been that many insurances cap unnecessarily the type of testing or amount of time we spend with patients, regardless of if treatment is “complete.” Especially as the pandemic brought with it immense global distress and an increased demand for services, our psychologists were finding that more flexibility and time were essential to continue providing the same quality of care. The barriers became greater than the advantages, which meant that it was time to make this change to continue serving patients while honoring our mission. More information about payment and fees can be found in the Payment section!

Why Choose Quest?

Quest has been conducting Psychological Evaluations in Hampton Roads since 2017. Our reports are often regarded as among the most detailed and comprehensive in the coastal area. Each team member is highly trained, professional, and courteous, and each clinician has received their graduate training at a license-specific accredited school. This means you’re receiving care from the “cream of the crop” who hold ethics, quality, and client care in the highest regard.

Quest is not a testing mill. You will be treated with individuality and respect, and all the pieces of what makes you you will be considered. Our reports are not rushed or slapped together, and you will see the comprehensive data as well as a detailed summary of the findings in the final product. A clear rationale for each diagnosis will also be given, so you will walk away with a deeper understanding of yourself or your child!

What If I Have More Questions?

As always, you may contact the office if you have further questions. Our administrative team would be happy to assist you! Email: appointments@questpsych.org