Diagnostic Psychological Assessment
Uncover the “Why” Behind the Symptoms
NO WAIT LIST | Insurance accepted
What is a Diagnostic Assessment?
A diagnostic psychological assessment is a formal evaluation that helps identify whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for one or more mental health conditions. At McDowall, our licensed psychologists use structured interviews, standardized tools, and clinical expertise to determine accurate diagnoses.
Whether you’re struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, or mood instability, scheduling a diagnostic assessment is the first step towards the right care.
Why You Might Need a Diagnostic Assessment
A diagnostic assessment helps clarify what’s really going on, especially when symptoms are complex, overlapping, or long-standing. Many people seek an assessment after feeling unsure, mislabelled, or not fully understood.
What Our Diagnostic Assessments Evaluate
A Diagnostic Assessments is an in-depth evaluation that examines a wide range of psychological, emotional, cognitive, and behavioural factors. It’s designed to assess:
Depression & Mood Disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Anxiety Disorders & Phobias
Psychosis or Thought Disorders
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Personality Disorders
Bipolar Spectrum Conditions
Substance Use Concerns
Understanding the Full Picture of Diagnostic Assessments
Our diagnostic assessments examines multiple layers of psychological functioning
Get a Clearer View of Your Mental Health
Our diagnostic assessments explore multiple layers of psychological functioning to help identify the root cause of mental health concerns.
Emotional & Psychological Roots
We explore your emotional responses, past traumas, personality traits, and mood regulation to uncover deeper patterns behind anxiety, depression, or emotional dysregulation.
Cognitive & Neurological Patterns
We assess how you think and process the world around you. This includes attention, memory, executive functioning, reasoning, and problem-solving.
Social & Behavioural Functioning
This includes how you interact, manage emotions, and communicate with others. We look at interpersonal behaviour and coping styles to assess challenges in relationships, work, or school.
Who We Work With
At McDowall, we work with variety of ages and diverse population
Adults
Experiencing emotional distress, burnout, or ongoing symptoms
Teens & Adolescents
Navigating school-related stress, mood swings, or behavioural concerns
Parents & Caregivers
Looking to better understand their child’s mental health
Students & Professionals
Seeking documentation for academic or workplace accommodations
Clinicians
Looking for formal diagnosis to support treatment planning
Why Choose McDowall?
Our goal is not just to assess but to help you understand yourself and take action toward better mental health.
- Clarifies complex or overlapping symptoms to understand what’s really going on
- Uses evidence-based methods and DSM-5 criteria to ensure accurate diagnosis
- Considers the whole person, including emotional, cognitive, behavioural, and life context
- Provides clear, practical recommendations to guide treatment, supports, or accommodations
- Offers careful, ethical diagnosis only when criteria are clearly met
Getting started with Diagnostic Assessments
We take comprehensive approach to evaluating your
physical and psychological concerns.
Book Assessment Consultation
Contact us to book an appointment that works for you.
Complete Assessment Intake Process
Complete consent form and intake assessment before your appointment.
Attend Your Assessment Appointment
Attend in-person or virtually to begin your private, assessment session.
How soon can I get an Diagnostic Assessments appointment?
We do our best to book assessments in timely manner. Our intake team will provide an estimated timeline after reviewing your intake information.
How long does an Diagnostic Assessments take?
Depending on the assessment, it will take 3 to 4 hours.
Our psychological assessments covered by insurance?
Yes, psychological assessments are often covered by insurance, depending on your plan. Coverage varies, so we recommend checking with your provider for details.
How much does a Diagnostic Assessments cost?
Assessment fees vary depending on the type, complexity, and time required. A fee estimate outline will be provided before services begin.
Is a deposit required to book?
Yes. A deposit is typically required to secure an assessment appointment. Details will be provided during the booking process.
Can I book a virtual assessment?
Some assessments can be offered virtually, while others require in-person or hybrid testing. Assessment format is determined based on the type of assessment, clinical appropriateness, and best-practice guidelines.
Virtual Diagnostic Assessments Across Ontario
A Diagnostic Assessments can be conducted virtually when clinically appropriate.
Contact our office to book an assessment consultation.