Paving the way for enhanced mental health outcomes.
Mental health assessments and accurate diagnosis are essential for effective mental healthcare. Yet according to the National Institute of Mental Health, over one in five adults live with a mental illness and many remain undiagnosed, missing out on life-saving treatment. The Annals of General Psychiatry reports that more than a third of patients with severe psychiatric disorders are misdiagnosed. These issues are even more pronounced in underserved communities, where racial and ethnic minorities often receive lower-quality care, resulting in fewer diagnoses and limited treatment opportunities, as noted by the American Psychiatric Association.
To address this need, and with the support of a 2023 grant from the Ralph M. Parson Foundation, Gateways established a state-of-the-art Psychology Testing and Assessment Lab. This lab equips psychologists and interns with advanced tools to conduct private, in-depth assessments, identify unique strengths and challenges, and recommend tailored interventions.
Through comprehensive psychological testing and assessment services, Gateways helps identify the factors affecting an individual’s well-being, enabling providers to create personalized treatment plans that support long-term recovery and improve quality of life. Gateways is committed to expanding access to these essential services, particularly for underserved populations.
The Power of Psychological Testing
Gateways use a range of psychological assessments tailored to each client’s needs, including Cognitive (IQ) Testing, Academic (Learning Disability) Testing, Developmental Testing, Personality Testing, and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Screenings.
Cognitive (IQ) Testing
Cognitive testing evaluates intellectual abilities and identifies areas of strength and challenge. Gateways IQ assessments offer valuable insights into cognitive functioning, helping shape personalized educational and therapeutic interventions.
Academic (Learning Disability) Testing
For individuals facing learning challenges, academic testing identifies specific difficulties and informs targeted educational strategies. Gateways assessments diagnose conditions such as dyslexia and other learning disabilities, ensuring clients receive the support they need to thrive academically.
Developmental Testing
Gateways developmental testing diagnoses conditions like autism spectrum disorders and developmental delays, primarily in young children. These evaluations enable early interventions, forming the foundation for Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and long-term developmental support.
Personality Testing
Personality testing provides insights into how individuals interact with the world. Gateways assess traits and behavioral patterns, and evaluations guide therapeutic approaches, helping clients manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Screenings
Nearly 64% of Americans have experienced at least one potentially traumatic event, known as an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE), before turning 18, according to the CDC. ACEs are linked to long-term mental and physical health issues, highlighting the need for trauma-informed care.
Gateways is at the forefront of addressing ACEs by emphasizing whole-person care. Understanding a patient’s trauma history is essential for effective mental health treatment.
In 2024, Gateways partnered and published a study with UCLA, Applying Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) Screening in Adolescent Inpatient Mental Health, which revealed key findings:
- 94% of youth in the study had at least one ACE.
- 79% experienced additional stressful life events.
- 1 in 3 children received a new PTSD diagnosis during hospitalization.
- 56% had four or more ACEs, indicating a high risk of toxic stress.
These findings underscore the importance of trauma-informed care. Gateways’ partnership with UCLA demonstrates how collaboration can address California’s growing mental health crisis.
“Barriers to accessing mental health treatment and screenings are still too high for young people in California and throughout the nation. I’m glad to have local partners like Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center and UCLA who are working to combat this crisis head-on by providing trauma-informed care to those who need support.”
– Senator Alex Padilla
Expanding Community Impact
Gateways partners with community agencies to reduce waitlist times and expand access to mental health assessments.
Gateways offers testing services in multiple languages to better serve a diverse community.