Self-Assessment Tools | Stafford & Associates Counseling
A Private First Step

Free Self-Assessment Tools

Free, validated self-assessments for ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more — a private first step toward deciding whether to reach out.

These brief, research-based questionnaires can help you better understand what you're experiencing and whether it may be worth talking with a professional. They take just a few minutes, your answers stay private, and there's no sign-up required.

If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. These tools are for self-reflection — not emergency care.

Good to Know

Common questions about these self-assessments

Are these self-assessments a diagnosis?

No. These are screening tools for self-reflection, not diagnostic instruments. They can help you notice patterns and decide whether to reach out — but only a licensed clinician can provide a diagnosis after a thorough evaluation.

What is the difference between a screening test and a diagnostic assessment?

A screening test is a brief, standardized questionnaire that flags whether symptoms may be present and worth exploring. A diagnostic assessment is a comprehensive clinical evaluation — interviews, history, and sometimes validated instruments — conducted by a professional to determine an actual diagnosis and treatment plan.

What is the difference between OCD and OCPD?

OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) involves unwanted, distressing intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors performed to relieve anxiety. OCPD (obsessive-compulsive personality disorder) is a personality pattern of perfectionism, control, and rigidity that the person often sees as reasonable. They can look similar but are distinct — a clinical evaluation can help tell them apart.

Can a depression test tell whether I have bipolar disorder?

Not on its own. A depression screener (like the PHQ-9) only measures depressive symptoms. Bipolar disorder also involves periods of elevated or activated mood, which a depression test doesn't capture — that's what the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) screens for. A full evaluation is needed to distinguish them.

Is the ASRS an ADHD diagnosis?

No. The ASRS (Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale) is a screening tool that indicates whether ADHD symptoms may be present. A diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional, including history and ruling out other explanations.

What does my ACE score mean?

Your ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) score reflects how many categories of early-life adversity you experienced. A higher score is associated with greater risk for certain health and emotional challenges — but it is not destiny. Many people with high ACE scores live healthy, resilient lives, especially with support. It's information to bring to a conversation, not a verdict.

Are these tests free and private?

Yes. They're completely free, take only a few minutes, and require no sign-up. Your responses are for your own reflection — we don't need your identity for you to use them.

What should I do with my results?

Use them as a starting point. If your results suggest you're struggling, consider reaching out — you can schedule a free consultation and we'll help you understand your options. If you're in crisis, call or text 988 right away.

Ready to talk it through?

If anything you noticed feels worth exploring, we're here. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation and take the next step at your own pace.

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