At Wholesome Psychology, we believe in compassionate, evidence-based care that respects your lived experience. Our anxiety assessments help you gain clarity about your emotional health and provide a foundation for healing. Whether you’re struggling with constant worry, physical symptoms like racing heartbeats, or social withdrawal, understanding the depth and scope of your anxiety is a powerful first step toward feeling better.
What Is an Anxiety Assessment?
An anxiety assessment is a structured psychological evaluation used to identify the presence, severity, and type of anxiety you may be experiencing. Conducted by our trained therapists and psychologists in Edmonton and St. Albert, these assessments help determine whether you're facing:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Specific Phobias
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Each of these conditions can present differently, so our assessments are personalized to your specific symptoms, history, and needs. The goal is to offer clarity, not just a label. Many clients come in unsure of what they're experiencing—our role is to listen, validate, and guide you with care.
Recognizing Anxiety Symptoms
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent thoughts or worries? Anxiety can impact your daily life in many ways. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate an anxiety disorder:
Emotional Symptoms
- Constant feelings of dread or nervousness
- Difficulty concentrating or staying present
- Social withdrawal or avoiding situations
- Irritability or feeling easily overwhelmed
- Overthinking worst-case scenarios
Physical Symptoms
- Fatigue, despite sleeping well
- Muscle tension or headaches
- Digestive problems like nausea or stomach cramps
- Rapid heartbeat or chest tightness
- Shortness of breath or dizziness
If you’re noticing these signs regularly, you’re not alone—and help is available. Assessments are a non-judgmental way to understand what’s happening in your body and mind.
Why an Anxiety Assessment Matters
People often ask, “Do I really need an assessment, or can I just start therapy?” The answer depends on your goals. While many begin counselling without formal testing, an anxiety assessment can enhance the accuracy of your care. Here’s how:
- Personalized Care: Knowing your anxiety profile helps us tailor your treatment plan.
- Objective Insight: Assessments provide measurable data to support your healing journey.
- Clarity: You may discover that your anxiety is more (or less) severe than you assumed.
- Validation: Understanding your symptoms through a clinical lens can be deeply affirming.
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, an assessment helps create a focused path forward. At Wholesome Psychology, our process is collaborative, empowering, and always rooted in respect for your story.
What to Expect from the Assessment Process
Our approach to anxiety assessment in Edmonton and St. Albert is designed to reduce stress—not add to it. From the moment you reach out, we aim to make the process comfortable and transparent. Here’s how it typically unfolds:
1. Initial Consultation
You’ll speak with an intake specialist who will gather some background information and match you with a psychologist suited to your needs.
2. Clinical Interview
Your therapist will conduct an in-depth conversation exploring your emotional, behavioural, and physical symptoms. This may also touch on past experiences, medical history, and family background.
3. Psychological Testing
Depending on the situation, we may use standardized tools such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) or Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). These tests help provide a clearer picture of your current mental state.
4. Feedback & Recommendations
You’ll receive a comprehensive explanation of the results, including suggestions for therapy, lifestyle changes, or further evaluations if needed. We’ll also discuss next steps, whether you choose to begin individual counselling, meet our therapists, or explore other treatment options.
Flexible Options to Suit Your Needs
We understand that every person’s circumstances are different. That’s why we offer flexible formats for our anxiety assessments:
- Brief Screening (15–20 minutes): Ideal for those seeking a quick check-in or needing documentation for work or school.
- Comprehensive Assessment (Up to 2 hours): A detailed evaluation including clinical interviews and standardized testing.
Whichever option you choose, our clinicians are trained to make the experience thoughtful and supportive, never rushed or impersonal.
Local Mental Health Support You Can Trust
Located in both Edmonton and St. Albert, Wholesome Psychology is proud to serve our local community. Our therapists bring warmth, cultural sensitivity, and clinical expertise to every session. We're passionate about mental health equity and helping individuals, couples, and families feel heard and empowered.
We also offer support for related concerns that often overlap with anxiety, such as:
Each of our assessments is conducted by a registered psychologist or a supervised therapist with advanced training in mental health diagnostics. Meet our team at Our Therapists page.
Book Your Anxiety Assessment Today
If you’re ready to take the first step toward greater peace and clarity, we’re here to help. Contact us today to request an appointment or ask questions about the assessment process. Our team will provide you with a personalized quote, timeline, and guidance on what to expect. Whether you're located in central Edmonton, north Edmonton, or St. Albert, our clinics are welcoming, accessible, and here to support your mental wellness.
Understanding your anxiety is the first step to managing it. Let’s walk that path together—with kindness, clinical skill, and care tailored just for you.
