Psychological Evaluations In White Bear Lake, MN

SHOULD You CONSIDER A PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION?

Life can be challenging, and understanding the root of difficulties can make a world of difference. A psychological evaluation may be the right step for you or your child if:

  • You're facing concerns about depression, anxiety, or trauma and feel uncertain about how to move forward.

  • Your child or teen is struggling at school, experiencing social difficulties, withdrawing from others, or showing defiant behaviors.

It’s frustrating and painful to feel stuck after trying everything without success. A comprehensive psychological evaluation provides valuable insight by:

  • Highlighting strengths that may have been overlooked.

  • Identifying the underlying causes of troubling behaviors.

  • Offering specific, actionable recommendations to address these challenges.

With this clarity, you’ll gain a stronger understanding of what’s happening and a clear path to create meaningful and lasting change. An evaluation isn’t just about uncovering problems—it’s about empowering you with tools and strategies to build a brighter, more successful future.

Signs & Symptoms

DEPRESSION & MOOD DYSREGULATION

It’s natural for moods to fluctuate, but when extreme, persistent mood changes disrupt daily life, it could indicate a mood disorder like depression. Common signs include:

  • Irritability or persistent sadness.

  • Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

  • Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite.

  • Difficulty making decisions or concentrating.

  • Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness.

If these symptoms resonate, a psychological evaluation can uncover the root cause and guide you toward effective solutions.

ANXIETY

Anxiety disorders come in many forms, each affecting individuals in unique ways. Key signs of anxiety may include:

  • Excessive worry, fear, or panic that interferes with daily life.

  • Trouble concentrating or completing everyday tasks.

  • Physical symptoms such as rapid breathing, sweating, or shaking.

  • Difficulty sleeping or feeling constantly fatigued.

  • Avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety.

If anxiety is holding you back, an evaluation can provide clarity and a path to relief.

TRAUMA

Exposure to traumatic or highly stressful events can deeply affect mental health. Signs of trauma-related distress may include:

  • Persistent worry or difficulty focusing.

  • Reliving traumatic events through intrusive thoughts or flashbacks.

  • Emotional numbness or dissociation.

  • Irritability, mood swings, or withdrawal from others.

  • Physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, or fatigue.

Because trauma symptoms often overlap with other psychological conditions, an accurate diagnosis is crucial. A thorough evaluation can help identify trauma's impact and guide you to the right support.

HOW IT WORKS

What Happens During A Psychological Evaluation?

Step 1: Intake (1 to 2 hours)

We will meet virtually so your psychologist can learn background information and current concerns. There is nothing you need to do to prepare for the intake, just come as you are! We will use the information from the intake session to develop an individualized testing plan.

Step 2: Testing (3 to 5 hours)

An in-person testing appointment will occur about 1 week after the intake. You or your child will engage in a variety of tasks to help us learn more specific information. The testing appointment is sometimes broken into multiple days.

Step 3: Feedback (1 to 2 hours)

The feedback appointment occurs about 2 weeks after the testing appointment. You will have a copy of the evaluation report and your psychologist will go over the results of the testing, including any potential diagnosis, discuss specific recommendations and next steps, and answer any questions you have. You will leave this appointment with clarity and confidence about what do to next.