It’s Metamorphosis
The science of psychology has gained popularity in the last few years, and people have become more aware of the role of the psychologist and the mental health counselor in today’s world. Additionally, there is a lot of interest in mental health topics that we now find on the radio, television, cable, and social networks.
Psychological Evaluations/Clinical Mental Health Evaluations occur when members of our family, friends, and/or work colleagues need help with their mental health. There is a myth that these evaluations are only administered when people present pathological syndromes. On many occasions, they are seen as something that is not akin to us. I remember that when I started my private practice in the early 90s, it was curious to see that the clinics of the psychiatrists and psychologists did not include the specialty. And if they happened to write their specialty on the sign at the door, clients would sit as far away as possible in the waiting area.
Mental Health Counselors became much more important as the COVID-19 pandemic surfaced. Who has not felt hopeless facing an enemy like the latter? and has not lost a family member, a friend, or someone they know?
Our children/teens have been the most affected by this pandemic. From one day to another our life changed radically. Families found themselves isolated; separated from their loved ones and their friends. Children and adolescents, just like their parents and teachers, had to quickly adapt to virtual life and the changes this brings about. It especially affected small children and/or those with learning, behavioral, emotional, and social issues.
During my stay in New York City, we received in our non-profit organization, Spence Chapin to Families and Children, some families who had been assessed and/or treated at the prestigious Child Mind Institute. This institute published the “Children’s Mental Health Report: Telehealth in an increasing virtual World”.* Some of their results showed that 75% of the parents that asked for help had observed that their children showed decay in their emotional, behavioral, and physical health since the pandemic.
Clinical Mental Health and Psychological assessment centers around the world started to carry out psychometric testing in a virtual mode through specialized platforms. If you had asked me two years ago if assessing virtually was indicated, I would have answered it was not best practice. Months later, the companies that developed these psychometric instruments started to create them virtually. The data up to now indicates that the ethical and correct administration of these instruments leads to the appropriate diagnosis.
Our Motto “The success of your child begins when you assess his/her strengths and challenges” implies that taking this first step is the beginning of the rehabilitation process that your child needs. In this way, she/he will become a knowledgable, kind, and empathetic citizen who is able to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
*“Children’s Mental Health Report: Telehealth in an Increasingly Virtual World”