Medical Personnel
What is a Psychometrist?
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A psychometrist is a person who has received training in psychology or related field with an emphasis in tests and measurement. The basic function of a psychometrist is to administer and score psychological tests under the direct supervision of a clinical psychologist. Psychometrists work both in inpatient and outpatient settings. An important goal of the psychometrist in the assessment process, is to determine a patient’s optimal level of performance on a particular battery of tests. In addition to test administration, it is typically the role of the psychometrist to establish rapport with the patient and to structure the assessment to motivate the patient in order facilitate the goal of optimal performance. Psychometrists also are required to accurately record responses and score tests using appropriate norms. Psychometrists keep note of test behavior, especially any behaviors which might affect test results.
Psychometrists must be competent in their use of a variety of tests in order to assess intelligence, personality, aptitude, achievement, comprehension, memory, perception, and motor skills. They should be aware of ethical issues regarding patient confidentiality, protection of test security, and constraints about dual relationships with patients.
The use of a psychometrist (at both the Bachelor degree and Master degree level) supervised by a qualified, licensed psychologist or neuropsychologist. is a common, recognized practice. Psychometrists are often responsible for maintaining test supplies, remaining knowledgeable of new testing instruments as they become available, as well monitoring the quality of the work completed.
Resources
National Association of Psychometrists
Kathryn Neale received her undergraduate degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and her Master’s Degree in psychology from State University of New York at Geneseo. She has been employed as a psychometrist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite in the Neuropsychology Department for five years