Field Experience 2

Jake Byma
Seasons Center for Behavioral Health
2/2-2/6
Hours Worked: 9


1. Work-This week brought much of the same as the previous week.  I was supposed to do an IQ test observation, but we had a cancellation.  Instead we met to grade tests that were given the last week.  Even though I haven't been doing the grading for that long it has come pretty easily to me.  Most of what I do is just simple addition in my head and then looking up charts and appendixes to find what those numbers mean.  I am starting to learn just a little bit about what the impact of those numbers on a person's counseling profile.  For example, a certain number on one test is a very good sign of inattention and when coupled with other factors can help diagnose ADHD.  I have also learned this week about packing files for the company.  Now, Trevor can tell me, "We are testing a 15 year old male next week with a full battery," and I know every test I need to pack into the file for them.  The most important thing I have learned is what exactly we test for certain situations and how to find those tests in our filing system. 
2.  Evaluation-So far I am still enjoying everything.  It is all new and keeps me interested and engaged.  It can be tough because I really want to do some test observation but can do that shortly.  It also can be kind of slow around the office.  Tuesdays and Fridays (if we need to meet those days) are just Trevor and I.  It can be kind of quiet because we both need silence to think and add up the data for tests.  I don't know if I'd like his set-up where he works all by himself on Tuesdays.  It might drive me crazy.  But I really do like learning about all the tests and the ins and outs of them. 
3.  I really haven't found many problems.  The only thing is just remembering in certain test batteries the age is a huge deal because that changes if we include certain tests or not.  But I make sure to ask Trevor about that and double check when packing files.  And remembering every sheet needs client initials. 
4.  Topics to discuss-If anyone has felt like this experience reinforces what you want to do career-wise or makes you second guess anything?