ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces a framework for conceptualizing the practice and utility of psychodynamic psychological testing on inpatient units and other settings responsible for treating patients with severe psychopathology. It also presents a training model built around the unique learning opportunities this testing approach offers. Today, psychological testing most often focuses on differential diagnosis, risk assessment, cognitive assessment, and, in some settings, forensic needs. These assessments, however, are limited in their attention to the personhood of the patient. Rather, they focus on discrete aspects of functioning. In contrast, we present a model of psychological testing wherein psychologists offer a fuller perspective, one grounded in a psychodynamic model of personality. We begin by introducing the testing model and its origins. Next, we describe what we assess, how we assess and write about it, and how we teach the method. Finally, we present the ways we integrate testing findings into the overall inpatient treatment effort, including treatment planning and facilitation, and the assessment of change. Throughout, we reference testing material in order to illustrate the approach.
