Testing and Diagnosis

What is normal development and what isn't?

As children grow and develop, it can often be hard for a parent or caregiver to know what is part of a child's normal development or what could be considered something more serious. Actions such as anxiety, anger, and shyness can be a part of developmental growth or a temporary condition rather than an illness. However, when troubling behaviors occur over a period of time or in a way that disrupts daily life, they could be considered symptoms of a disorder.

How are mental health issues diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a medical doctor to try and rule out any physical reasons for the difficulties. Lab tests may also be done to test for side effects of medication, for allergies, or for other conditions that could produce symptoms.

If no medical reason is found for the behavior, the doctor often refers the child to a psychologist or psychiatrist who treats children and adolescents. A psychologist is trained to evaluate and diagnose mental illnesses but usually treats them through counseling or behavioral therapy. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental illnesses and write prescriptions for medication. Often, the two will work together to provide a combination of counseling and medication. Other therapies, such as music or art, may be added to conventional treatments.

In the state of Texas, only licensed psychologists are qualified to provide formal psychological assessments. Our Ph.D. psychologists are trained in pediatric assessments including:

Learning disabilities
Intelligence Quotient (IQ)
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Autism spectrum disorder
Mood and bipolar disorders
Psychotic disorders
Dual diagnoses

Our psychologists meet face-to-face with families and provide comprehensive written reports to review testing results and provide recommendations for home, school and other activities.

Some disorders begin in childhood and continue into adolescence and adulthood. Others go away or improve with age, and some begin later in life. Mental illnesses are usually caused by a combination of factors that fall into four broad categories: environmental, genetic, biological, and psychological. For instance, a child who has a genetic predisposition may develop a disorder when exposed to toxins or physical abuse.

Although many parents want to avoid medication or the stigma of a mental diagnosis, the prognosis is brighter with proper treatment. If a child does not receive necessary care, the illness may continue into adulthood, creating high risk for issues such as substance abuse, antisocial behavior, or suicide. When given a correct diagnosis and treatment, outlook for a healthy life as an adult is much more positive.