Psychological Assessments
Understanding complex emotional needs through structured evaluation
What is a psychological assessment?
A psychological assessment is a structured process used to explore concerns related to mental health, trauma, attachment and family dynamics. It helps us understand the emotional wellbeing of individuals in complex situations where behaviour raises questions or concern. We do assessments for both children and adults.
They are often recommended when it’s unclear what underlies certain behaviours or patterns in relationships. This is especially important in high-stress family contexts or when trauma is suspected but not fully understood.
Assessments can help inform therapy or guide decisions in legal contexts, such as balance of harm evaluations. They are not therapy themselves, but they are often the first step towards finding the right kind of support.
Our approach to psychological assessments
At CFS, we take a trauma-informed and systemic approach to every assessment. We look at the full picture, what surrounds the child or parent emotionally, socially and developmentally. Our assessments are always shaped around the individual’s age, background and current concerns.
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We begin by understanding the reason for the referral and the key questions involved.
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We select appropriate tools based on the person’s history and observed behaviour.
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We interpret findings with care, focusing on emotional patterns, resilience and areas of difficulty.
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We provide a clear written summary that supports therapeutic or legal decisions.
What’s included in a psychological assessment?
Validated psychometric tools and self-report questionnaires.
Assessment of attachment style, such as avoidant, ambivalent, disorganised or secure.
Exploration of past or current events that may affect emotional functioning.
A professional interpretation and written summary for families or other professionals.
Online assessments
Some parts of the assessment can be completed remotely. Online tools are self-reported and based on well-established clinical research. They can help screen for trauma, attention difficulties or emotional distress.
These assessments offer a practical way to collect structured information when in-person sessions are not possible or needed early in the process.
Play-based methods and story stem techniques
In certain cases, especially with younger children, we may use play-based approaches such as story stem techniques. These involve starting a simple story, often using toys and inviting the child to complete it. This helps us understand how the child processes relationships, emotions and challenges.
We only use this method when it is appropriate and safely delivered by a practitioner with relevant training.
Encourages children to express emotions through play and storytelling.
Offers insight into attachment patterns and relational dynamics.
Helpful for children who struggle to communicate feelings directly.
Always delivered in a child-friendly and developmentally sensitive way.
Why choose our psychological assessments?
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Grounded in trauma-informed practice and emotional sensitivity.
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Adapted to suit both children and adults in complex family settings.
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Delivered by professionals who combine clinical expertise with human insight.
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Clear, focused reporting that supports both therapeutic and legal decisions.
Other Ways We Can Help
Planning & Preparation for Residence Transfer
We support residence transitions through structured planning that prioritises the child’s emotional security and practical needs.
Section 7 Reports
We provide child-focused Section 7 reports under the Children Act 1989, giving the Court a clear picture of what is in the child’s best interests.
Balance of Harm Reports
We evaluate whether contact or separation is more likely to benefit or harm the child, offering a balanced analysis for Court consideration.