ABSTRACT
This chapter evaluates assessments to determine appropriateness for a child or adolescent. It focuses on the five steps of the assessment process and the various aspects of each of these steps, including: selecting the assessments to administer that includes a review of the psychometric properties of the assessment; administering assessments; scoring assessments; interpreting assessments that may involve explaining a variety of data; and communicating results to others. The chapter explains a case study which focuses on counselors using achievement assessments in a school setting and relates to counselors using behavioral assessments in a clinical mental health setting. The screening process is designed to provide preliminary information to determine the level of risk for specific mental health concerns and the need for further assessment and counseling services. There are three main methods of assessment outlined in assessment literature: tests, interviews, and observations. Behavioral assessments focus on the measurement of observable behavior. Personality assessments include standardized assessments and projective techniques.
