A psychological evaluation provides an expert opinion about a person’s mental health and functioning, usually in response to a specific question or series of questions. Evaluations are conducted by court order or on the request of a client. A good evaluation addresses the possibility of substance abuse and mental illness, but also explores personality style and behavioral history.

When we are asked to perform a psychological evaluation, we first must know precisely what questions the evaluation is expected to respond to. Only then can we determine the extent and type of work that needs to be done. Psychological evaluations do not produce opinions about child custody, nor can they predict future behavior. A typical evaluation may include multiple interviews, psychological testing, review of relevant records, and possibly interviews of selected personal or professional collateral informants.