General Psychological Evaluations
Testing & Assessment Tools
The use of tests and other assessment tools to aid in the understanding of person’s behavior, personality, and capabilities. Testing is used to provide valuable insights and determine an individual’s strengths and limitations. This information can then be used to evaluate needs and aiding in providing the appropriate resources and/or treatment to the individual.
Psychological Assessment
Psychological Assessment is a complex task that requires information to be collected from a variety of sources. The process involves time spent face-to-face, including a clinical interview, psychological testing and the gathering of historical data. Data from psychological tests must be analyzed in context, which requires the assembling of both current and historical information. The context of a person may include information about development, medical background, education, family, substance abuse, personal interests and relationships. Psychological tests involved with a Psychological Assessment may include standardized tests, as well as projective tests, questionnaires and drawings. Once psychological tests have been administered, they must be scored and interpreted. These tasks require additional time above and beyond that which is spent in direct contact, and are necessary before any summary, letter, or report can be created. Psychological testing and Psychological Assessment are specialties and may only be performed by individuals with the proper training and license.
Diagnostic Clarification and Treatment Planning
Psychological assessment can help guide the direction of therapy and provide focus for goal setting and treatment planning. Evaluations can involve tests that measure intelligence, achievement, cognitive functioning, and sometimes motor functioning. Although each test offers its own special type of information, together the test battery gives a full picture of a person’s functioning. The choice of tests used depends upon the question to be answered.
Achievement and Learning
Assessments of achievement and learning serve as a vital tools in identifying and understanding the needs and strength of individual students. Evaluations can be requested by parents, teachers and other school personnel to help promote effective learning and education development. Assessments and written reports offer a clear layout of individual strengths, areas of growth, and needs along with recommendations to help develop appropriate curriculum, educational planning and behavioral modifications.
Who will receive a copy of the evaluation report?
The patient/client will not receive results, an interpretation of results, diagnostic opinions, or therapeutic recommendations directly. Such information may be included in a report sent to the requesting/paying party (attorney) and must be obtained directly through that party's usual and customary manner.
Are evaluations objective and independent?
Forensic evaluations are conducted objectively and independently, regardless of which party retains Dr. Pleshchuk. Dr. Pleshchuk’s role is not to advocate for the defense, prosecution, plaintiff, or respondent, but to provide an impartial professional opinion based on the available information and appropriate psychological methods. Dr. Pleshchuk considers information that may support or challenge the referral question and clearly identifies the basis and limitations of my opinions. The goal is to provide the court and legal professionals with a thorough, balanced, and scientifically grounded assessment.
What records are needed?
The records needed will depend on the type and purpose of the forensic evaluation. Relevant materials may include medical and mental health records, school records, employment records, legal and court documents, police reports, treatment records, prior evaluations, and other case-related documentation. Attorneys are encouraged to provide all records relevant to the referral question. Dr. Pleshchuk will review the available information carefully to determine what additional records or collateral information are needed to conduct a thorough, well-supported evaluation.
Do you travel?
Dr. Pleshchuk is available to travel when a case requires in-person services, including evaluations, interviews, consultations, depositions, and court appearances. Travel arrangements depend on the location and specific needs of the case. Many services can also be conducted remotely when appropriate.
What counties do you serve?
While Dr. Pleshchuk primarily works throughout Northern California, she can serve clients and legal professionals in all counties throughout California. Depending on the needs of the case, I may provide services remotely, allowing Dr. Pleshchuk to work with clients and attorneys statewide. Dr. Pleshchuk also provides forensic psychological services in New Hampshire.