Falling into psychological assessment
My journey into psychological assessment began with my initial assessment courses and two practicum placements that emphasized testing and evaluation. These experiences highlighted the beauty of piecing together complex data to provide children and adolescents with a deeper understanding of their learning profiles. More than mere numbers on a report, these assessments became tools for unlocking access to services, resolving long-standing questions, and offering parents relief and direction.
My internship at MercyFirst in Long Island, NY, shaped my expertise. Under the supervision of seasoned psychologists, I developed specialized skills that expanded my understanding of clinical assessment. I learned the fundamentals of assessing risk factors, recognizing the profound impact of trauma and neurodiversity, and working with children with harmful sexual behaviors. Each case challenged me to think critically and sensitively, reinforcing the responsibility of conducting psychological evaluations ethically and compassionately.
After my internship, I completed post-doctoral training at a child guidance clinic in southern Connecticut. This environment allowed me to further refine my diagnostic skills while working with children and families from various backgrounds. Here, I witnessed firsthand how early intervention and comprehensive assessments could alter a child's developmental trajectory, equipping them with the resources and support they needed to thrive.
After finishing my post-doctoral work, I moved into private practice. This change allowed me to pivot and choose where to focus my energy and expertise. The more I explored different areas of psychology, the more I realized that psychological assessment was my true calling. The ability to provide clarity to children, adolescents, and their families through comprehensive, evidence-based evaluations became the foundation of my work. Every assessment I performed reinforced my belief that understanding an individual’s unique strengths and challenges is one of our most powerful tools in promoting growth and well-being.
Psychological assessment allows me to combine my analytical skills with my desire to help others. It allows me to provide meaningful insights that can shape a person’s educational and emotional path, giving them more control over how they would like to build and structure their lives. Ultimately, it fulfills my mission of bringing clarity, direction, and empowerment to the families I work with.
