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For individuals experiencing mental health challenges, a comprehensive psychological evaluation performed by a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), often a Licensed Psychologist, is the essential first step for differential diagnosis. Timely and accurate identification of the underlying condition is crucial for effective treatment planning. Unfortunately, limitations in resource availability and the supply of qualified clinicians often lead to a focus on managing symptoms and consequences rather than addressing the primary, foundational concern.
Every mental health professional (clinician and researcher) in the United States uses the criteria defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) to guide and assign the most accurate mental disorder diagnosis. Often times, distinguishing a mental health condition from other conditions that present with similar symptoms is an important part of the clinician. For example, clients who report a lack of interest in everyday things are often evaluated for depression. However, the underlying cause of depression might be one of the 297 mental disorders. At Twilight Psychology, we tackle this challenge using a multi-faceted approach involving the following steps:
The first step is to gather exhaustive information before we meet by sending an intake form to the client, which asks for biopsychosocial, medical, and substance use history. We also try getting any information about the client's trauma, developmental milestones, family dynamics, cultural background, and environmental stressors, among others.
We then conduct the psychological testing that is evidence-based by administering a norm-referenced tests to objectively measure and assess specific areas of functioning.
During the testing process, we also observe the client's behavior, appearance, motor activity, speech, and thought process.
We then integrate all information into a a comprehensive report, listing diagnoses, and recommendations.
The final step is a feedback session to discuss the results and answer any questions.
Psychological evaluations are not covered by Kentucky Medicaid or standard health insurance (under KARs) when conducted solely for non-medically necessary purposes such as:
Child Protective Services Evaluations
Legal or Forensic Purposes
Employment/ Vocational Purposes
Educational and Academic Purposes (e.g., dyslexia, dysgraphia)
Testing for Autism, ADHD, personality disorders are covered typically by the health insurance (deductibles, copays, Prior Authorization approval might apply).
While we are in-network with most health insurances and are able to offer these evaluations, we will not be able to bill these to your health insurance if they are not considered "medically necessary" as defined by your insurance company. Those that do not meet this criteria are self-pay only. To know if the evaluation is covered, please call or text us at 859-687-5843. Self-pay clients often receive the psychological evaluation report within a week of appointment.