Comprehensive and Evidence-Based Assessments for Adults
Compass provides detailed psychological assessments for adults across a range of settings, including court proceedings. Our HCPC-registered psychologists combine professional expertise, research evidence and clinical understanding to provide clear and reliable reports that support informed decision-making.
Assessments are carried out with professionalism, compassion and respect, ensuring that every individual is treated fairly and that conclusions are grounded in robust psychological evidence.
Who Are Adult Assessments For?
Our adult psychological assessments are suitable for individuals who are subject / party to legal proceedings, including Civil, Family and Criminal Courts.
Our Approach
At Compass, we recognise that every assessment must be tailored to the unique needs of the individual and the questions being asked. Our psychologists use a structured yet flexible approach that integrates clinical interviews, psychometric testing and psychological formulation to build a clear picture of the person’s strengths, difficulties and circumstances.
All assessments are conducted in line with ethical standards and professional guidelines issued by the HCPC and British Psychological Society.
What to Expect
The assessment process typically includes the following stages:
- Referral and instruction – agreeing the scope of the assessment and reviewing the key questions to be answered.
- Document review – analysis of any relevant background information such as medical, occupational or legal records.
- Clinical interview – a structured conversation exploring personal history, psychological experiences and current wellbeing.
- Psychometric testing – administration of standardised psychological measures to assess areas such as intelligence, memory, trauma, mood and personality.
- Formulation and report – integration of all information into a clear and evidence-based report that answers the instructing questions.
Example Psychometric Tools
We use a range of validated, reliable psychometric instruments selected according to the specific referral question. Common examples include:
- WAIS-IV – adult intellectual and cognitive functioning
- BAI / BDI-II – mood and anxiety assessment
- TSI-2 – trauma and PTSD assessment
- SVR-20 – structured risk assessment tool for sexual violence
- MCMI-III – personality and psychopathology profiles
- WMS-IV – memory functioning
Example Outcomes
Depending on the referral, our assessments may:
- Clarify the nature and severity of mental health difficulties
- Assess cognitive or memory impairments affecting daily functioning
- Provide insight into personality factors influencing behaviour or relationships
- Identify psychological vulnerabilities relevant to legal or occupational contexts
- Offer treatment recommendations or strategies for managing difficulties, if instructed
- Provide placement options for children
Every report includes a clear psychological formulation explaining how the individual’s experiences and traits interact to shape their current presentation.
A Private and Accessible Service
Compass provides a discreet and accessible service for both public and privately commissioned assessments (all instructions must however be made by a Solicitor). Appointments can be arranged promptly, either in person or online, ensuring minimal delay for clients who may be waiting on important decisions or legal processes.
All assessments are handled sensitively, with clear communication and respect for confidentiality at every stage.
Why Choose Compass
- Experienced, HCPC-registered psychologists specialising in adult mental health and forensic assessment
- Objective and evidence-based methodology using validated psychometric tools
- Clear, accessible reporting for legal, clinical and occupational audiences
- Private and professional service with flexible appointment options
- Timely delivery and transparent communication throughout the process
Frequently asked questions
The process typically includes reviewing background information, a structured clinical interview, and the use of appropriate psychometric tests. These might assess areas such as mood, trauma, personality, cognitive functioning or risk, depending on the referral question.
Our adult assessments are suitable for individuals experiencing emotional, behavioural or cognitive difficulties, or for those involved in legal processes that require an independent psychological report. Referrals are accepted from Solicitors and Local Authorities.
Most assessments involve one or two interview sessions lasting 1–3 hours each, plus time for testing if required. Timescales will be negotiated on a case by case basis, and we attempt to balance the timescales and the capacity of our experts without comprising the quality of the assessment process and reports.
Yes. Compass Psychological provides private adult assessments without the long waiting times often experienced elsewhere (all instructions must however be made by a Solicitor). Appointments can be held in person or online, and reports are produced to the same professional and ethical standards as our court assessments.
Absolutely. All information shared during the assessment process is treated with the highest level of confidentiality in accordance with HCPC and British Psychological Society guidelines. Reports are shared with the instructing Solicitor, who then provides this to the other parties’ Solicitor/s and the Court.
Get in Touch
If you would like to discuss an adult psychological assessment, either privately or on behalf of a client, please contact us.
