Preparing Clients for Psychological Testing: A Guide for Therapists

20 February 2026

Psychological testing can be an incredibly valuable tool in understanding what's really going on with a client. Whether you're working with a kid who's struggling in school, an adult wrestling with anxiety, or someone seeking clarity on a possible diagnosis, psychological assessments often provide the clarity both you and the client need. But here's the thing—it can also be kinda scary for the client.

So, how do we, as therapists, help our clients feel ready for psychological testing? That’s exactly what we’re diving into.

Let’s break it down together, from demystifying what psychological testing actually is, to walking your client through the process with empathy, clarity, and confidence.

What Is Psychological Testing Anyway?

Think of psychological testing like using a flashlight in a dark room. It helps us see what’s going on more clearly—whether it’s identifying learning challenges, diagnosing mental health conditions, or just gaining insight into someone’s thought patterns and behaviors.

These assessments aren’t one-size-fits-all. They can range from simple questionnaires to complex cognitive assessments, personality tests, neuropsych evaluations, and more.

Basically, they give us therapists a structured way to collect valuable data. But for clients? It can feel like they’re about to take the SATs all over again.

Why Preparing Clients Actually Matters

Let’s be real—no one likes surprises when it comes to their mental health. Preparing your client for testing doesn't just ease anxiety; it increases the odds of getting accurate, helpful results.

When clients know what to expect, they’re more relaxed, more truthful in their responses, and less likely to second-guess themselves during the process. Plus, a well-prepared client is less likely to ghost when it’s time to interpret the results.

Also, psychological testing can sometimes stir up vulnerability. If we prepare clients for that emotional impact gently and openly, we create space for trust—and that’s the foundation of everything we do as therapists.

Step 1: Normalize the Process

The first thing you want to do is normalize the heck out of psychological testing.

Let them know that testing isn’t about labeling them or “figuring out what’s wrong.” It’s about understanding them better. Just like a doctor uses blood tests and X-rays, therapists use psychological tests to gather a more complete picture.

You could say something like:

> "This isn’t a pass-or-fail situation. There are no right or wrong answers. Think of it as us putting together the pieces of a puzzle so we can really understand what you're going through and how best to support you.”

Using analogies like puzzles, maps, or even detective work can help clients grasp that tests are simply tools—not judgments.

Step 2: Set Expectations Early On

Uncertainty breeds anxiety. That’s why giving your client a roadmap beforehand is a game-changer.

Here’s what you should cover:

- What types of tests they'll take (e.g., IQ tests, projective tests, personality assessments)
- How long it will take (some tests can take hours—let them know!)
- Where it will happen (in-person? online? with another clinician?)
- What the environment will be like (quiet room, one-on-one setting, informal chat vs. structured test)
- Why each test is being done (tie it back to the client’s goals)

It’s not about overwhelming them with details, but rather giving them enough info so they’re not blindsided.

And hey—if you’re referring out to a psychologist or testing specialist? Make sure the handoff is warm and supportive. Loop in your client on the referral process so they’re not walking in cold.

Step 3: Talk About Nerves (Because They’re Totally Normal)

Let’s not pretend that this isn’t a little nerve-wracking for clients. Getting your brain evaluated can feel super vulnerable. They’re wondering:

- “What if I do badly?”
- “Will this change how my therapist sees me?”
- “What will they find?”

That’s why it's so important to talk openly about those fears. Invite the client to share any hesitations they have. Reassure them that nerves are normal, and they won’t mess up the results—they’re part of the picture, too.

You might say:

> "Feeling anxious about testing is completely normal. In fact, it tells us how much this matters to you. That’s actually useful information."

The more you normalize the nerves, the less power they have.

Step 4: Clarify Confidentiality and Boundaries

This is a biggie. Clients sometimes worry that the test results might be shared without their full understanding—or even used against them.

So be crystal clear about:

- Who will see the results
- How the data will be used
- If the results will go into official records (e.g., school, legal, medical)
- How much control the client has over what’s shared

Reassure them that their privacy is respected and that they’ll have space to process the results with you before anything is sent anywhere.

Transparency here = trust.

Step 5: Help Them Prepare for the Day Of

Okay, now for some practical prep.

The day of the test can make a big difference. Here’s some simple advice you can pass along:

- Get a good night’s sleep – mental fatigue messes with results.
- Eat something beforehand – hungry brains don’t test well.
- Bring necessary documents or glasses – little things matter.
- Dress comfortably – this isn’t a job interview.
- Arrive early – rushing in late = increased stress.

And maybe most important: let them know they can take breaks. Psychological testing isn’t a race. It’s okay to pause, breathe, and take it slow when needed.

Step 6: Talk About the “After”

What happens post-testing? This is where a lot of clients feel a little left in the dark.

Be proactive about setting expectations for:

- When results will be available (a week? two?)
- How they’ll receive them (written report? feedback session?)
- What the next steps are (using results to tweak therapy goals, refer to other specialists, etc.)

Let them know that the testing doesn’t signal the end—it’s actually a new beginning. It’s a tool that will make your work together even more focused and effective.

Step 7: Check In Emotionally

Once the testing is done, don’t just launch into the next phase. Pause and ask how your client is feeling.

Some clients will feel relieved. Others might feel exposed or confused. Sit with them in that emotional space.

This is your opportunity to remind them that:

- No test can define them fully
- Their identity isn’t wrapped in a diagnosis or number
- The goal is growth, not perfection

When you validate their emotional experience, you help them internalize the testing process as something supportive, not punitive.

Bonus Tip: When Working With Kids (and Their Parents)

Working with kids brings its own unique set of challenges, especially around psychological testing.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

- Use age-appropriate language. Say “brain games” instead of “cognitive exams.”
- Encourage parents to frame the testing positively (“You’re going to meet someone who’ll play some thinking games and help us understand how you learn best!”)
- Let kids know that it’s okay if they don’t know every answer—it’s not a school quiz.

And make sure parents are emotionally prepared for the results, too. Especially if there’s a possibility of learning disabilities, ADHD, or other diagnoses. You want to frame findings as helpful information, not a verdict.

Wrapping It Up: Be the Guide, Not the Gatekeeper

Ultimately, preparing your clients for psychological testing is about walking the path with them—not ahead of them, not behind them, but beside them.

You’re not just handing them a referral and hoping for the best. You’re setting them up for a supportive, empowering experience that could unlock a new level of insight and healing.

So be the flashlight. Be the puzzle-piece collector. Be the calm voice in the storm who says, “We’re doing this together. And it’s going to help.”

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Quick Recap: Therapist’s Checklist for Prepping Clients

- ✅ Normalize the testing process
- ✅ Set clear expectations
- ✅ Address their concerns head-on
- ✅ Be transparent about privacy and data use
- ✅ Offer practical day-of tips
- ✅ Clarify what happens next
- ✅ Hold space for emotions before and after
- ✅ Customize your prep for kids and families

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Final Thought: You’ve Got This

Whether you’re new to referring clients for testing or this is old hat, just remember—your words carry weight. When you prepare your clients with empathy, honesty, and care, you’re not just prepping them for a test. You’re inviting them into a deeper understanding of themselves.

And that? That’s powerful.