Assessment Intervention Using the Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test: A Clinical Illustration

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Psychotherapy

Background:

• Therapeutic assessment (TA) aims to facilitate client change through in vivo interventions during planned assessment intervention sessions (AIS).
• Neuropsychological tests are underutilized in AIS, despite their potential to inform interventions.
• The Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT) is proposed as a valuable tool for AIS, particularly for cognitive functioning assessment.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old male client (Mr. B) presented with mood and cognitive complaints, linked to career dissatisfaction and a history of childhood neglect and abuse.
• Mr. B's performance on the RCFT revealed specific cognitive styles relevant to his presenting problems.
• An AIS was designed to observe and modify his problem-solving approach within a supportive therapeutic relationship.

Findings:

• The RCFT provided crucial insights into Mr. B's cognitive functioning and style.
• The AIS, informed by RCFT results, facilitated a shift in Mr. B's self-perception regarding cognitive dysfunction.
• Mr. B demonstrated improvements in organizational skills and learned to utilize interpersonal support for problem-solving.

Implications:

• Integrating complex neuropsychological tests like the RCFT into AIS can enhance therapeutic interventions.
• This approach offers a pathway to address complex cognitive and emotional issues within a supportive assessment framework.
• The case highlights the potential of TA utilizing specific assessment tools to foster significant client change and self-understanding.