Clinical Neuropsychologist | South Florida
Psychological Assessment
Definitive Diagnostic Evaluations to Identify the Root Causes of Symptoms
Diagnostic Clarity Through Specialized Assessment
Psychological assessment looks beyond the surface of a standard interview. It aims to uncover the root causes of a person’s struggle. Complex psychological assessment requires a combination of cutting-edge testing methods, skill in analyzing objective test data, comfort with interpreting qualitative test data, and a diverse range of clinical experiences. Integration of information from these sources provides the evidence needed for an effective, personalized treatment plan.
For many, an evaluation is the first step toward a "reset." In cases with complex histories, Dr. Brooks untangles conflicting clinical pictures. He identifies the subtle intersections of personality, mood, and environment. Every individual leaves with a roadmap toward relief.
Personality & Emotional Profiling
Dr. Brooks uses a range of standardized assessments to evaluate personality structure and emotional functioning. By combining objective and projective measures, she explores both surface patterns and deeper dynamics. This process helps reveal how longstanding traits or past trauma may be contributing to current anxiety or depression.
Diagnostic Clarification
For those with a history of treatment failure, Dr. Brooks uses specialized techniques to differentiate between conditions with similar presentations. He specializes in distinguishing Bipolar Disorder from personality pathology, or ADHD from complex PTSD.
Clinical Observation
Beyond standardized data, Dr. Brooks utilizes objective measures to detect accuracy and effort. This ensures the evaluation is based on data, preventing bias from influencing the results. Testing provides information that clinical interviews alone might miss, as it uncovers aspects of a patient’s experience that they are not yet able to put into words.
Frequently asked questions
How do Psychological Assessments differ from Neuropsychological testing?
Psychological assessments prioritize clarity in emotional and psychiatric diagnoses. Neuropsychological evaluations focus on the mechanics of brain function. This includes memory, processing speed, and cognitive deficits.
What specific tests does Dr. Brooks use?
Dr. Brooks selects a custom battery based on the clinical question. He does not provide the names of the instruments in advance because he does not want patients to be tempted to prepare for the evaluation. The clinical tools are chosen specifically to address questions regarding mood, personality, and trauma.
Can Dr. Brooks differentiate between ADHD and high-functioning Autism (ASD) in adults?
Yes. Testing can distinguish between neurodivergent social patterns and executive function deficits. While certain diagnoses have become popular in social media trends, Dr. Brooks uses specialized measures to determine if symptoms stem from neurodivergence, trauma, or a personality disorder.
Does Dr. Brooks evaluate the intersection of addiction and mental health?
Absolutely. Dr. Brooks has extensive experience working with substance use treatment centers. He evaluates how chemical dependency may be masking underlying psychiatric disorders, such as Bipolar Disorder or PTSD, ensuring that the patient receives a dual-diagnosis roadmap for recovery.
Does Dr. Brooks collaborate with existing treatment teams?
Yes. Comprehensive care often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Dr. Brooks frequently coordinates with referring physicians, therapists, and psychiatrists to refine an individual's ongoing treatment strategy.