He specializes in Psychological and Neuropsychological Assessments. Daniel Pierce is a psychological technician and assists with assessments. Dr. Sullivan received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Arkansas in 1972. He completed a Master of Science in clinical psychology from Saint Mary’s University in San Antonio in 1975 and a Doctor of Philosophy in psychology from the United St
ates International University in 1982. He has been in clinical practice, in both inpatient hospital settings and outpatient clinics, since 1975. Dr. Sullivan has been providing consultation and psychological testing for 42 years with children and adults. Psychological testing is a process of understanding how a person thinks, learns, and feels. It is also helpful in gaining a more complete understanding of how they interact with and interpret their world. Psychological testing begins with a diagnostic interview conducted with a psychologist. This interview consists of collecting a developmental history, which includes information about the individual’s health, social, academic, behavioral, emotional, and occupational background. This information is useful in understanding lifelong patterns which may be present, and which often shed important light on the reasons behind the issue for which the individual is seeking or needing care. This session will allow the psychologist to determine the nature and scope of the testing that is required to obtain accurate information for the individual’s needs. During testing sessions, a series of tests are given, which measure all types of psychological functioning. A testing session can take 2 to 3 hours (including breaks.) This amount of time is necessary to achieve an optimal assessment without exhausting the individual being assessed. Generally, several assessments are chosen, by the psychologist, to be administered. These tests involve the use of paper and pencil, answering questions, “hands on” activities, and sometimes involve the use of a computer. After testing is completed and scored, the psychologist prepares a final report of the findings. The final session provides the psychologist an opportunity to discuss the results, the diagnosis, and provide recommendations for the individual. The report and the recommendations by the psychologist will directly impact daily life, academic pursuits, and future endeavors of the individual that has been evaluated.
