Observe the person in a standardized test situation . Despite their limitations, standardized tests, especially in combination with interviewing, remain the major method of assessment for most mental health clinicians. This reduces subjective bias. They are time-efficient for the clinician. Scores are convenient for comparing this individual with others.
Scores can sometimes provide evidence of the mental illness improving or worsening over time.
One of standardized testing's major limitations is that many of them are inappropriate for individuals with developmental disabilities. When selecting a clinician, it is important to consider his or her competence in selecting the most appropriate tests for such a consumer. Due to time and funding constraints, clinical assessments may be very limited. Most mental health professionals recognize that a thorough clinical assessment is essential for effective and efficient mental health intervention.