Psychological diagnosis (interview) – children and adolescents

What is a diagnostic psychological consultation?

It's a consultation with a diagnostic psychologist, aimed at collecting an interview and determining the appropriate diagnostic tools for a child or teenager. The consultation helps to understand the emotional, behavioral and mental difficulties of the young patient, indicating the further therapeutic path.

The consultation is the first stage of the diagnostic process.

Consultation stages

1. Diagnostic psychological consultation – 1-2 visits, 50 min each.
2. Tests using selected tools – 2-4 visits, 2 h each.
3. Discussion of results with a diagnostic psychologist – 1 visit, 50 min.

For whom?

For children and adolescents who experience emotional, behavioral or mental difficulties that require specialist diagnosis.

How to prepare for the consultation?

It is worth taking previous psychological and school opinions and judgments with you. The child's willingness to cooperate during the examination is important - it is worth talking to them in advance and telling them what to expect. The presence of a parent/guardian during the consultation is required.

How does the consultation proceed?

The first diagnostic stage usually includes two visits: one with the child/teenager, the other with the parent/guardian. Sometimes one visit is enough if the child is ready to cooperate. The psychologist conducts an interview, observation and selects psychological tests.

How long do you have to wait for the result and how to interpret it?

The results are discussed at the last stage of the diagnostic process, during the summary consultation. The psychologist explains the diagnosis, indicates the strengths of the child/teenager and areas requiring support, and suggests further therapeutic steps.

Why is it worth it?

Psychological diagnosis is the foundation of effective therapy and supports a better understanding of the child/teenager and their needs.